Do you dream of traveling the world? Though several people have it first on their bucket list, they often forget it in hectic work life. However, there are a lucky few who travel the world and they get paid. Cabin crew is one of those most fascinating jobs that let you fly and make every workday memorable. In fact, it is a career path that lures many youngsters due to the attractive salary package, reputation and other benefits. Youngsters who aspire to become a cabin crew can have several queries about the job. In this blog, we will discuss the different aspects of the jobs and also answer the most frequently asked questions.

What is cabin crew?

The cabin crew consists of the flight attendants who take care of the passengers on an airplane. The sole responsibility of the cabin crew is to ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers. Their important duties include greeting passengers, taking passengers to their seats, serving meals, demonstrating emergency equipment and safety procedures, administering first aid and dealing with emergencies. They are supposed to assist the passengers throughout the journey. Though the job is exciting due to its nature, it also demands hard work, dedication and strict adherence to safety functions.

What qualifications/requirements do you need to be an air hostess?

Entry requirements for air cabin crew vary between airlines. However, the following are the general requirements:

• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age
• Arm reach of 210 cm when standing on tiptoes (depends on the airline) or minimum height of 156 cm
• Good level of health and fitness
• Willing to comply with UAE and GCAA visa, health and medical screening requirements (for applying in UAE)
• Adaptability and flexibility to meet a demanding work schedule
• High standards of personal grooming
• High school graduate (Grade 12)
• Fluency in English (written and spoken)
• Fluency in other languages aside from English is held in high regard
• Can adapt to new people, new places and new situations

Are tattoos allowed for cabin crew?

The rules regarding tattoos will differ between airlines. However, most of them don’t allow visible tattoos. So, you don’t need to worry if the uniform can hide the tattoo. But some companies don’t prefer candidates with tattoos even if they’re on the invisible part. Generally, the policy says that no cabin crew can have a visible distinctive mark (tattoos, scars, birthmarks).

Is there an age limit for cabin crew?

What is the minimum age for a cabin crew member? Most of the youngsters who aspire to become a cabin crew member may have this question in mind. The age limit is usually 18, while some airlines may make it up to 21.

Importance of grooming for cabin crew

Is grooming important for cabin crew? Well, it is the most important factor for a cabin crew member. When we think of cabin crew, the first picture that comes to our mind is a well-dressed and pleasant young woman/man. The cabin crew are the ambassadors of the airlines. As they are continuously in contact with the passengers, they must dress accordingly. They should dress, behave and speak in a way as to give a positive image of their company. All airline companies will have certain grooming standards that their cabin crew are supposed to follow without fail. However, the common rules include a neat hairstyle with no stray and loose hair flying around, clear facial skin without marks, clean and polished shoes, short and neat nails, a uniform that is fitting correctly, stockings or socks and proper makeup for women.

Essential skills and qualities for cabin crew

• Has excellent communication skills
• Maintain a pleasing and positive attitude
• Possess exceptional customer service skills
• Stay calm in adverse situations
• Has numeracy skills (for handling cash, including foreign currency)
• Working well as part of a team
• Have strong cultural awareness
• Be prepared to work during odd hours

Earn the qualifications to become a cabin crew

Having the right qualifications and training is extremely important for cabin crew. It can help you to learn the varied aspects of the job from industry experts, improve your communication skills and confidence levels to face the interview. The best program for aspiring cabin crew is the Airline Cabin Crew course certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is the trade association for the world’s airlines, representing around 290 airlines. A certification from IATA is considered to be the gold standard in the aviation industry and can considerably increase your chances of getting hired by the top airline companies.

Steps to become a cabin crew member

Becoming a cabin crew member is not as easy as you assume. However, if you are determined enough to do it, you will become one for sure. Follow these steps to achieve your goal:

• Understand more about the profession

First, you need to collect information about the nature of the job, the requirements, qualifications and the opportunities for career development. It will help you to prepare yourself for the profession.

• Improve your skills

Though the profession doesn’t demand high-level educational qualifications, cultivating the essential skills and acquiring a professional qualification will increase your chances of getting hired. Choose the right training and certification to improve your skills.

• Land your first job

Prepare an attractive resume and start searching for your dream job. As there are several reputed airlines, you will be spoilt for choices. Dress professionally and be prepared to discuss why you would be an excellent choice to represent the airline.

• Advance your career

Once you have begun your career as a cabin crew member, you will have several chances to advance your career. You will become a senior cabin crew member who will supervise other cabin crew members and ensure that they deliver a high standard of safety, service and the overall inflight customer experience. You can also become cabin crew trainers, cabin crew managers or work in the reservations. Aviation is the most suitable field for individuals who don’t prefer to work in a cubicle. Every day is filled with new experiences that make work interesting. Cabin crews have attractive remuneration and several other benefits, including free flights for themselves and family members on their airline and free accommodation and transportation. If you love traveling the world, interacting with people from different parts of the world and providing excellent customer service, cabin crew is the best job for you. Also Visit: IATA Cabin Crew Training Course in Dubai