Having an outstanding work experience or possessing a very pleasant personality isn’t enough to get you the job. You’ll need to comply with some basic requirements to qualify. For example,
Fluency in English: Being able to communicate effectively in English is often necessary for many job positions, especially those that involve interacting with English-speaking clients, customers, or colleagues.
Height and Reach: Some jobs may have specific height and reach requirements. These criteria ensure that individuals can safely perform their tasks, meet certain physical standards, or operate equipment as needed.
Weight Proportional to Height: Certain professions may have weight requirements that are proportional to an individual's height. These guidelines aim to maintain a healthy and safe working environment for employees.
Some domestic airlines accept applicants at the age of 18. For legal reasons, long-haul international airlines require that you’re at least 21 to apply since you will be required to serve alcohol. The other reason you’ll have to wait until you’re 21 is you’re more mature (hopefully) at this age. This job is extremely demanding so being mature and independent is crucial. If you aren’t mature enough to take care of yourself without Mommy or Daddy, how could you be able to look after the safety and comfort of other human beings? If you cry over every boo-boo, then this job isn’t for you!
The great thing about being a flight attendant is you don’t need to take up a special course for it in university. You actually don’t need a college degree altogether. It doesn’t matter what school you attended. Anybody can apply for the position regardless of their educational background. Keep in mind though there are airlines which require that you’ve attended at least two years of university.
You’ll be highly considered if you’ve previously worked in a hotel, cruise ship, fine dining restaurant, or as an airport ground staff. This signals to the recruiter that you’ve had hands-on experience in dealing with customers. I’ve observed that those with customer service background are the ones who last the longest in this job compared to those who come from a more technical background.
You must be tall enough to reach the overhead luggage compartments, but not too tall that you won’t fit in the plane. Strong enough to open emergency exits yet slender enough to pass through the narrow aisles.
“Must have the ability to walk and fit comfortably down the aircraft aisle while facing forward (not side-stepping), fit quickly through the over-wing exit, and sit in the flight attendant jumpseat without modification or a seatbelt extension. – Skywest
It’s always a good idea to know what you’re getting yourself into. Find out everything you can about the airline you’re applying for. Be updated with their latest news. Constantly follow the careers page on their website for announcements about their assessment days or hiring campaigns worldwide. Read everything you can about the cabin crew lifestyle and job description. You may think you love the job, but maybe the work doesn’t suit you. When you aren’t successful at your first trial, or even first few trials, apply again and again and again! I always remind people that I applied 8 times until I finally got into a major airline. I’m currently on my 15th year soaring the skies as a cabin crew.