subject: Cabin Crew Recruitment - What Exactly Is This Work Like? [print this page] Airlines would not be able to exist or run properly with out the assistance of cabin crew, and this is why they are so fussy about cabin crew recruitment. This is a special job and it requires the services of special people. Cabin crew personnel are far much more than glorified tea trolley pushers!
These members of staff form the central form of contact between the airline and the service it offer its customers. If a customer is unhappy with one airline, there are plenty of competitors out there they can try. Cabin crew is responsible for travelers' safety and comfort, and this is far more involved than just doling out drinks and food.
They are highly trained individuals who understand that passengers may have a fear of flying and their key function is to deal with the safety and security of all travelers, particularly during situations of emergency. They also assist with boarding, any other assistance during the flight and disembarking.
Before the flight even takes place they are briefed regarding all relevant details and once on-board they may be responsible for checking that the aircraft has been properly cleaned and is tidy, as well as fully stocked. Checking the equipment in the cabin and making sure it works, checking emergency medical supplies.
Other duties include liaising with ground staff with regards to load weight and passenger check in numbers, safely securing hand luggage and checking safety belts. Taking passengers through the in-flight safety precautions, selling duty free products, communications between pilot and passengers, dealing with obstreperous travelers; particularly if they are disturbing other passengers, helping with flight reports and immigration documents, and they all work as a team.
The hours are varied and there is no strict rules as far as a typical working week goes, this all depends on how many flight they are an how many staff members are available. They work on a rota system and hours are unsociable as well as irregular. They have to work public holidays, weekends and nights all as a normal part of their working week or month.
To be a member of a cabin crew, you are going to have to be as flexible as the routes the airlines fly. While some crew only work on domestic flights and others international, some crew may work both, and spend many days away from home.
This job provides for both a demanding and exciting working environment, and a lot of time is spent on your feet, jet-lag is inevitable! The people who do this job are people who really want to do it. But is also has great rewards, experienced cabin crew earn good basic salaries, get to see new places and meet new people all the time and may be given commissions, flight, meal and uniform allowances. And for people with additional qualifications, say nursing, the money is even better!
