Cabin Crew / Air Hostess / Flight Attendant

Overview

Who is Cabin Crew / Air Hostess / Flight Attendant?

With the growth in the aviation business, more and more individuals are required to facilitate flights' smooth functioning and operation. One such critical function is that of a flight attendant, sometimes referred to as an air hostess for female flight attendants. When addressing the confusion associated with the difference between air hostesses and cabin crew, air hostesses or flight attendants are simply part of the cabin crew which consists of all the individuals working onboard a flight looking after the passengers. Contrary to the common belief that air hostesses and flight attendants only look after the passengers and serve them refreshments, their job responsibilities actually extend way beyond just that. In order to become a flight attendant, aspirants must have excellent hospitality skills and knowledge of aviation as a whole. A flight attendant is trained in many aspects such as management of airlines staff and technologies within a passenger aircraft, healthcare services, for in-flight emergencies, among others. Even though this job role sounds exciting and fun with many perks, it is a demanding role.

Typical day at work

What does Cabin Crew / Air Hostess / Flight Attendant do?

Flight attendants in the cabin carry out the directions given by pilots or co-pilots outside the cockpit. Additionally, they are responsible for the safety and comfort of the passengers on a flight and warn them when necessary. The term "host" refers to male flight attendants, whereas "hostesses" refers to female flight attendants. Cabin crew are selected in compliance with aviation organisation standards and the General Directorate of Civil Aviation's regulations. They are in charge of everything from the cockpit door to the back kitchen. The cabin crew is not in charge of anything outside the aircraft or within the cockpit. However, the cabin crew has the ability to assist in both routine and emergencies. For example, they follow the instructions to close the exit doors on the left and right sides of the aircraft.

The roles and responsibilities of a flight attendant or an air hostess consist of the following tasks:

• Greet passengers and guide them to their respective seats
• Serve meals and refreshments to the passengers
• Provide medical care to the passengers if needed
• Instruct passengers on safety procedures 
• Ensure compliance of passengers with airline safety regulations
• Attend pre-flight briefing about the weather forecast, evacuation protocol, length of the flight and other flight related issues 
• Ensure first aid kits and emergency facilities are in excellent condition
• Ensure hygiene and adequacy of the supply of food, drinks and blankets
• Assist passengers throughout the flight
• Make necessary announcements

Abilities & aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Cabin Crew / Air Hostess / Flight Attendant?

To flourish in any sector, candidates must exhibit specific characteristics complementary to the work function. Similarly, a flight attendant or an air hostess should essentially have a pleasing personality, excellent communication skills, team-working skills, multitasking capabilities, fluent speech, presence of mind in case of emergencies, be ready to work long and odd hours, and also have the ability to deal with individuals of varied temperaments. Besides, flight attendants and air hostesses are expected to be extremely punctual. In addition, aspirants must have perfect eyesight, clear complexion, 157 cm height for female aspirants, 170 cm height for male aspirants, no history of medical history and be between 17-25 years of age. Certain agencies favour flight attendants and air hostesses who are not married.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?