Flight attendant openings are rare, with only one or two per year per airline. This has led to a surplus of applicants who don't make it through the initial selection process. Despite this, hundreds of thousands still apply for the role, making it unlike any other job application.
The acceptance rate for American Airlines flight attendants is less than 1%, making it one of the most competitive recruitment processes in any industry. In contrast, Emirates accepts around 2% of overall candidates, and British Airways around 4%. These statistics highlight the high standards required to join an airline's crew.
Airlines have very specific requirements and stick to the recruitment process precisely to find the best crew possible. This is evident in Delta Air Lines' general manager of inflight services recruitment describing the process as 'incredibly competitive, and that's by design — this is a job people idolize and dream about,'
The role of flight attendant has always attracted thousands of applicants, hoping to live their dream of traveling the world while representing their chosen airline. However, the competition is fierce, with only a few candidates ultimately receiving their wings.
A minimum age of 21 is usually required due to the service of alcohol on board. Candidates must also have completed high school and at least 1 year of experience in customer service or hospitality. Fluency in English is essential as it is the international language of aviation.
Personal presentation standards are crucial, as wearing a cabin crew uniform represents the company as a whole. No visible tattoos or piercings are usually required, although some airlines have become more lenient about this rule in recent years.
The 'reach test' has replaced traditional height and weight requirements. Candidates must be able to reach and retrieve emergency equipment from overhead bins, which is crucial to safety. The standard reach requirement is approximately 6 feet 11 inches (212 cm) measured from the floor to the highest point a candidate can touch.
Airlines often ask for candidates to be confident swimmers and be able to use a flotation device; this depends on the airline. This is due to the fact that flight attendants may need to respond in an emergency situation.
The emphasis on safety and customer service drives strict recruitment standards, making it difficult for applicants to pass the rigorous assessment process.
The airline industry's emphasis on safety and customer service drives strict recruitment standards.
