I've been a flight attendant for almost 10 years, so I've heard many misconceptions about this career.
Plus, more people are joining the field, with the employment rate of flight attendants expected to rise over the next few years.
Whether you're interested in joining the crew, here are things I wish people knew about being a flight attendant that could help them be better, more empathetic passengers.
Being a flight attendant requires flexibility, especially when starting out. Many new flight attendants are placed on reserve, which means they only receive assignments when planes need coverage.
If another flight attendant calls in sick or can't make it to the airport in time for their trip, the reserve employee takes their place.
When on reserve, I'd have to come to the airport with as little as two hours' notice. If you've ever seen a flight attendant running to the gate or showing up right before boarding, they may be on reserve.
Being a flight attendant is more than serving sodas and taking food orders. We're thoroughly trained to maintain a safe environment on board.
During training, flight attendants must learn how to respond in scenario-based cabin-safety exercises. We know how to evacuate an airplane efficiently, respond to turbulence, and give CPR.
We love providing great customer service and a relaxing atmosphere, but safety is our No. 1 priority.
Though it may seem like a small gesture, I wish passengers knew how much flight attendants appreciate good manners.
Many people I've served don't use a simple "please" or "thank you," but hearing these words and interacting with polite passengers instantly brightens my workday.
Some passengers believe flight attendants aren't concerned about delayed flights, but we want to reach the destination just as badly as they do.
Contrary to popular belief, most flight attendants aren't paid as soon as we clock in for work. Hourly pay begins when the aircraft door closes and stops once we land and the boarding door reopens.
Flight attendants can be on duty for 13 hours and get paid for only six or seven, depending on the length of the journey and the time between flights. So, just like passengers, we want flights to be on time, too.
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2024-03-30T14:20:57Z dg43tfdfdgfd