The main responsibilities of a flight attendant are to make sure that everyone complies with security procedures, to protect the passengers, and to monitor the safety of the flight deck. As passengers enter the aircraft, flight attendants welcome them, help them find their seats, and give due diligence. You must attend an interview if you plan to work as a flight attendant for any airline. In this article, we at founderactivity will look at flight attendant interview questions and offer some advice on how to answer them.
Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.
– Dalai Lama
Working with young, smart, and attractive individuals while traveling the world and assisting the travelers in getting to their destination securely. It seems like a lovely profession to be a flight attendant, especially for those who have never worked in the air. Famous former flight attendant, Jeenie Weenie who is Canadian is known for her YouTube Shorts and TikTok where she provides content of during her time of working for Emirates. Her content is mostly famous for providing information about things you did not know about cabin crew.
Who is a flight attendant?
The security and comfort of passengers on a flight are the responsibility of a flight attendant. They carry out a variety of duties, such as guiding passengers and carrying out safety inspections. They are also known as cabin attendants.
However, there are difficulties in the job of a flight attendant. You are responsible for several safety procedures. You will have to handle challenging passengers. You could even get into circumstances when you need to act as a first responder in an emergency and keep people calm.
Check out the video below to know what a day in a life of a flight attendant is like.
Flight Attendant Interview Questions
When your application is approved, you will next go through the standard interview procedure, which may involve a phone interview and an in-person meeting.
You should be prepared to answer a variety of flight attendant interview questions when you land your interview (pun intended). Some of these will be the standard interview inquiries you see in various professions.
Others, though, will pertain specifically to the job of a flight attendant. These might be inquiries about your personality, your conduct, your surroundings, or your relationship with the airline.
Be prepared to respond to any inquiries. Read over the following sample flight attendant interview questions and potential solutions to aid in your preparation:
1. What can you tell me about yourself?
Make sure to look your interviewers in the eye. Keep in mind that they are watching your every gesture, including your speech and grin. They make an effort to picture how pleasant it would be to speak with you while traveling. At least at this stage of the interview, how you behave and talk actually matters more than the specific words you use.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “My name is Nicky, and I am originally from Paris. I enjoy social interaction and travel. I have excellent English and Spanish skills. Since I have been working in retail for the past two years, I think that my previous expertise with customer service would be useful in my new position. Flying has always been my passion, and I am eagerly awaiting the opportunity to make it my full-time profession.”
2. Why do you want to be a flight attendant?
You need to be able to respond to this honestly and passionately. Give true justifications that are appropriate for the position. Make sure your explanations represent a knowledge of the duties of the position. Sincerity, enthusiasm, and a grasp of the role of a flight attendant are the three major qualities the recruiter will look for in this situation.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “When I traveled for the very first trip to see my grandma, I was a senior in high school. I was anxious yet also eager to go. I was welcomed on board and informed that I was an unattended minor by a flight attendant as I made my way to my seat. Since this was my first flight, she made an introduction and asked whether I had any questions. Throughout the flight, she kept an eye on me to see whether I needed anything.
It truly made me feel at peace. I watched Maria along with the other flight attendants and saw how kind and cooperative they seemed to be with the passengers. Since then, I have had a flight attendant as my career goal.
Since then, I have improved my ability to provide excellent customer service by registering tired guests at Beta Hotels. Along with speaking both English and Spanish well, I am also calm, patient, and adaptable. My talents and background make being a flight attendant the ideal job for me.”
3. Why would you be a good flight attendant?
When they inquire as to why you would excel in this role, you have the opportunity to project confidence and boast a little bit about yourself.
You should not be afraid to speak up in this situation. Consider your professional talents and the aspects of the job description that appear to fit you well, then address those things. Among the flight attendant interview questions, this provides you the chance to show off your familiarity with the position and your priorities for the position.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “An excellent flight attendant possesses a variety of traits. Customer service, teamwork, and professionalism are the top three. Making ensuring the passenger has a positive experience is our main responsibility. On a flight, a crew of at least two people is required for every task. Additionally, we speak for the airline and want passengers to know they are in the finest possible hands. I could also add flexibility, mental and physical stamina, work ethic, multitasking, judgment, and kindness to that list.”
4. Give Me an Example of a Team Project You Have Worked on.
This is a typical behavioral flight attendant interview question that is asked to flight attendants. Employers might make assumptions about your behavior based on how you handled a circumstance that is comparable in the past. In this instance, the recruiter is interested in your prior experience and ease with teamwork.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “My high school job needed frequent coordination in a little but bustling coffee shop. We had to arrange everything behind the counter because there were 4 of us working there, including who would be in charge of what each day and how to move around each other and the different coffee machines. The job was enjoyable!
At the moment, I share my hotel front desk position with three other people. Even though it is a wider room than the coffee shop, we still need to work together and support one another throughout the day. We share two laptops for check-in and registration, ensure that guests’ wishes are fulfilled, and handle phone calls.”
5. Tell me about a situation where you had to deal with a difficult passenger. How did you handle it?
Next, you may anticipate one or more behavioral questions on your approach to providing excellent customer service, handling challenging clients, etc. The flight attendant interview questions mentioned above is frequently asked, so be prepared with a particular example, the strategy you used, and why. Finally, explain the outcome and what you took out from the experience.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “Passengers who refuse to cooperate might be difficult. They endanger everyone’s safety and annoy the other passengers. De-escalating an argument is a flight attendant’s first duty. When I worked at Beta Hotels, I attended de-escalation courses. I would gently reiterate the rules and request the passenger’s compliance. I would inform him of the repercussions he would experience if he persisted in refusing.
I would repeat this process a few times, and if he persisted in acting aggressively, I would enlist the assistance of my fellow flight attendants. Even when two people are stating the identical thing to each other, people can react differently. The last resort would be to involve the air marshal aboard, but hopefully we wouldn’t need to.”
6. How would you help a passenger calm down if they were nervous and afraid to fly?
Your attitude to customer service, your capacity for passenger empathy, and your ability to solve their issues should all come through in your response to the interviewer. You can demonstrate how you would communicate with the passenger by answering this critical flight attendant interview question:
SAMPLE ANSWER – “I would ask a passenger if they were okay and if they needed anything as soon as I could detect they was feeling uneasy. They would be comforted by the fact that many people dread flying, including those who do it regularly for work. I would then propose some options to divert her attention, such a magazine. They could press the flight attendant call bell if they needed anything, and I would let them know I will check on them again in a while.”
7. How would you respond to a terrified passenger who requests that the plane land right away?
It would not be realistic to land the airplane for each anxious passenger unless the situation was really urgent.
Your response should demonstrate that you recognize this and have taken the required actions to evaluate the circumstance.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “I would first try to determine the cause of the passenger’s anxiety. I would enquire as to what is wrong and let them know that I was paying attention. If their excuse was significant, I would speak with the flight crew. However, if their justification was insufficient to warrant a forced landing, I would explore for alternatives to increase the passenger’s comfort.”
8. How would you handle a conflict about seats between two passengers?
Confrontation is unavoidable when people are made to sit in confined places for an extended amount of time.
It will be your responsibility as a flight attendant to diffuse this situation. Let your response demonstrate your aptitude for negotiation and dispute resolution.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “I would first look up their bookings and then inquire about the issue if two people were complaining over their seats. I might offer to transfer one of them if there was a problem with them sitting close to each other and if we had vacant seats. If not, I would talk to them both and see what I could do to make things easier for them.”
9. A customer is refusing to follow the rules. How do you handle this?
Here, you want to demonstrate that you can maintain composure, avoid conflict while remaining firm in your stance and explaining to the passenger why something needs to be done (for safety reasons, etc.)
Show that you are a rule-follower and that you would adhere to the airline’s suggestions as well (such as “escalating” this to a senior leader of the cabin crew if the issue gets out of hand).
Additionally, you may inquire with them about this by saying something like, “By the way, what kind of training does your airline give to assist in preparing flight attendants for this sort of situation?”
10. How would you handle spending a lot of time apart from your loved ones and friends?
Ability to adapt. With this question, the recruiting manager is trying to find that. If you are adaptive enough to handle the lifestyle of a cabin crew member, they want to know.
As you are already aware, flight attendants frequently work with new team members while spending a significant amount of time away from home on lengthy flights.
Flight attendants must be flexible to deal with this and maintain performance requirements. Make it apparent to the hiring manager that you are an adaptable person who is skilled at adjusting to different surroundings when you respond to this question. If you can, give instances where you overcame being apart from your loved ones for extended periods of time.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “Since I have been considering it for a while, I have come to the realization that working as a flight attendant entails many changes in schedule, extended absences from home, and being on call. I can live with it simply. My loved ones are eager for me to pursue my aspirations and they support me in my decision.”
11. Describe a conflict you’ve had with a coworker. How did you handle the dilemma?
The airline wants to make sure you get along with a variety of employees. So, the next behavioral flight attendant interview question type you might anticipate in a flight attendant employment interview is this one.
Your objective should be to show that you can maintain composure and professionalism in the face of conflict and that you recognize that you and your coworkers are on the same team and working for the same objectives. Demonstrate that you put your ego aside, maintained composure, and found a solution.
The airline wants to ensure that their flight attendants are not allowing internal conflicts get in the way of providing passengers with an exceptional experience since the customer always comes first.
12. What do you know about our airline?
They could inquire in this manner to determine your level of preparation. Visit the airline’s website to learn more about their past. The size of them, ‘where is their main office located?’ or ‘where are their principal centers?’
Make sure you are aware of the company’s size, founding date, and corporate history (including any mergers or acquisitions). Learn this fundamental information so you can answer the interviewer when they ask you about it.
13. Why do you wish to work for our airline?
They will want to know a particular reason why you applied to their organization in addition to the question “Why do you want to be a flight attendant?” that was discussed previously.
Therefore, be sure to have some knowledge of the specifics of their airline and to express your admiration or enthusiasm for the business.
14. What does excellent customer service mean to you?
This is a flight attendant interview question in interviews for customer service positions, such as flight attendants. It is an often asked question, and I have even had it asked of me at the beginning of my career.
I would suggest describing how you think providing outstanding customer service entails pushing far beyond what the client expects and exceeding the commitments your company makes.
15. What distinguishes our airline from its competitors in your opinion?
Try to learn one or two aspects that set their business different from rivals in addition to some fundamentals about their business and its history.
This may be due to its standing, the locations it travels to and services, its remarkable customer support system, or other factors. Just be sure what you’re saying is accurate!
16. What type of work environment do you prefer?
In your response, you would need to say that you value a dynamic workplace where people work together. You can lose the job if you admit during the interview that you prefer to work alone or in a slow-paced atmosphere.
17. What are your greatest strengths?
Choose strengths that are relevant to the position or would benefit you in it, ideally. What will persuade the interviewer that you are most likely to succeed in the this position should be on your mind.
18. What was your favorite flight experience?
People who are passionate about something have a method for making things better for others around them. An applicant who enjoys flying or airplanes might be a huge benefit. Look for responses that go into great depth regarding the subject’s preferred portions of the experience.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “My first flight on a 757 was my favorite experience. Even though the journey was brief, I could readily understand why it is called “The Empress of the Skies.”
19. Do you feel comfortable in new environments and situations?
Experienced flight attendants may follow a predetermined path, while those with less seniority may find themselves in many of the airline’s destinations. Consider hiring people who are accustomed to other cultures and can swiftly adjust to new situations.
20. What languages do you speak?
You should respond to this simple flight attendant interview question by listing all of the languages you are fluent in at the intermediate level or higher. Describe the languages you speak natively or with fluency and those you are still studying.
21. Do you prefer to work alone or as part of a team?
As a flight attendant, you will spend the most of your time working in a team atmosphere, therefore you should always mention that you like it.
It is acceptable to claim you prefer both scenarios, but make sure you demonstrate to the interview panel that you have the abilities necessary to manage circumstances in which cooperation is essential.
22. Tell me about a period when you had to balance several demanding tasks. What were your strategies?
Get ready to discuss a time when you had to select and manage several responsibilities. And how would you respond if this happened again?
Do not ignore this issue; multitasking and maintaining composure when several things demand your attention are essential talents.
23. Have you ever taken a flight as a passenger? What did you think of the service the flight’s cabin crew provided?
They could question about your travel experiences to learn more about your observations and how you interact with others.
When you were a passenger, what stuck out to you. If you were a flight attendant, how would you use that knowledge to provide your customers a wonderful experience?
24. Describe yourself in 3 words
Pick three uplifting words, and be prepared to explain why with them.
SAMPLE ANSWER – “I would choose the words “brave,” “determined,” and “passionate.” I believe these words describe me well because I am constantly pushing myself to try new things, even when I am scared. I never give up on what I want, and I approach everything I do with excitement and energy.”
You can also choose a couple of words that describe you the best from the below list.
Kind | Friendly | Motivated |
Team Orientated | Versatile | Hard Working |
Collaborative | Patient | Resilient |
Energetic | Outgoing | Understanding |
Prepare for Group Assessments with Cabin Crew
Additionally, airlines carry out group evaluations where you must work together to solve issues and scenarios.
The following is the most important importance regarding this scenario, as stated by my colleague who was a flight attendant: They largely examine how you engage with the team during that negotiating process; they don’t analyze the overall result or remedy you came up with.
Therefore, be careful to exhibit patience, attentive listening, communication, professionalism, and collaboration. The setting and the issue you are trying to solve are not as important as demonstrating your ability to collaborate with others!
Tips for Flight Attendants
Jobs as flight attendants combine management and customer service in a unique way. By offering passengers food and beverages, delivering first aid when necessary, and seeing to it that concerns are resolved, they cater to their needs as customers. They are also the passengers’ first point of contact in a crisis, and it is their responsibility to guide them through it.
Questions to Ask in a Flight Attendant Interview
You might inquire about how you would interact with coworkers, the daily responsibilities and tasks, and how your performance would be evaluated during your flight attendant interviews.
Save questions about benefits, wages, vacation time, and other perks until a second or third interview and keep your inquiries pertinent to the position (or ideally, once you know they want to offer you the job).
Avoid asking questions that may be addressed quickly by looking at the airline’s website or the job description. You should not inquire, for instance, “How long has this company been in operation?” Asking the recruiting manager will not impress them because you can find this information with a short Google search.
Flight Attendant Interview Attire: What to Wear
For your flight attendant interview, you should dress professionally. This is important since this will be your chance to impress your interviewer. This includes a suit and tie for males. Women would need to dress in a skirt, dress shirt, and jacket. Appropriate shoes and accessories should also be worn.
Summary of a Flight Attendant
A flight attendant is a person who works on board an aircraft, serving passengers and aiding the pilots. A flight attendant resume should include all relevant experience as well as education, training and certifications. It is important to note that there are different requirements for each airline and some may require first aid or emergency medical training so check with your employer before applying for a position.
Responsibilities of a Flight Attendant
Flight Attendants are largely in charge of ensuring that all passengers are safe and that the cabin staff is competent to carry out their tasks. In order to build a favorable image of the airline, they must also make an effort to make customers’ trips as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Among the duties of a flight attendant are:
Skills
The goal of flight attendants is to make sure that passengers have a comfortable and safe flight. A knowledgeable flight attendant will: in order to comfort passengers:
- Show that you have a thorough understanding of evacuation techniques.
- Possess in-depth familiarity with safety gear
- Keep your composure and be kind to fellow crew members and passengers.
- Long workdays spent in potentially tense circumstances
- Possess the strength to lift objects up to 30 pounds (such as suitcases)
Qualifications
The FAA Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency is given to flight attendants who have successfully completed their basic training, which typically lasts three to six weeks and is provided by their company. Some businesses can demand that applicants have at least 1-2 years of similar experience working in the service sector in addition to this first training.
Although it is not necessary, having a bachelor’s degree will make you stand out from the competition. Additionally, flight attendants could get specific training to enable them to operate various types of aircraft.
Salary
The base salary for Flight Attendant will range from $69,669 to $97,366. The average base salary will consist of $81,907.
Your flight attendant income will depend on a number of factors, including:
- Certifications and Degrees (CPA, associate’s, bachelor’s)
- Experience in Years
- Administrative Duties (crew, lead)
- Organization Type (commercial airline, private or corporate aircraft)
- Location (domestic, international) (domestic, international)
To wrap it all up, the interview process for a position as a flight attendant is challenging. This job is a desire for many young women, and there is fierce competition. A few examinations and challenging scenario-based questions are frequently required for you to move forward with the desired job agreement.
Success, however, is not dependent on luck. Do thorough research on your prospective company, practice answering interview questions, and attempt to do everything you can to be prepared for the big day.
A Pilot will never be homeless. He will always look for a place to crash.