She Strengthens

The Highs and Lows of Being a Flight Attendant

Imagine a job that allows you to travel the world, experience new cultures, and enjoy the freedom to create your own schedule. Sounds like a dream, right? But, being a flight attendant is not all glamour and excitement. Erin, a 31-year-old flight attendant with six years of experience, shares the pros and cons of her job, from the rigorous training process to the challenges of balancing work and personal life.

Getting Started

Erin’s journey as a flight attendant began with a passion for travel and a desire to break free from the monotony of a 9-to-5 office job. After applying four times, she finally landed a spot with her current airline. The application process involved a series of interviews, including a video interview and an in-person assessment, where her social skills and ability to interact with others were put to the test.

The Training Process

Once accepted, Erin underwent an intensive four-week training program at her airline’s facility, where she learned how to handle emergency situations, operate aircraft equipment, and provide exceptional customer service. The training included written and hands-on tests, as well as a “Reach Test” and “Jumpseat Test” to ensure she could fit comfortably in the jumpseat and operate it correctly.

The Challenges

Despite the perks of being a flight attendant, Erin faces numerous challenges on the job. One of the biggest misconceptions is that her role is simply to serve snacks and drinks. In reality, she’s trained to handle real-life emergencies and ensure the safety of all passengers on board. Another challenge is the unpredictability of her schedule, which can make it difficult to plan personal trips or maintain relationships.

Flexibility and Travel Benefits

On the flip side, Erin loves the flexibility of her schedule, which allows her to work as much or as little as she wants. She also enjoys the travel benefits, including free domestic flights and discounted international fares. With her airline’s standby list, she can snag a seat on a flight at the last minute, as long as there’s availability.

The Impact on Relationships

Erin acknowledges that her job can take a toll on relationships, particularly in the beginning when she’s away from home frequently. However, she believes that with open communication and a willingness to make it work, relationships can thrive despite the challenges.

COVID-19 and the Industry

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the airline industry, with many flights grounded and airports eerily empty. Erin took a leave of absence for six months to help the company save money, and when she returned to work, she faced a new set of challenges, including enforcing mask-wearing rules and dealing with resistant passengers.

Pay and Benefits

As a flight attendant, Erin’s pay is based on her hourly rate, which increases annually with seniority. She also receives per diem for layovers, supplementary pay, and differential pay for working overnight. Additionally, she gets paid a fixed rate twice a month, making her compensation package unique and rewarding.

In conclusion, being a flight attendant is not just about serving snacks and drinks; it’s a demanding job that requires rigorous training, flexibility, and a passion for helping others. While the benefits are undeniable, the challenges are real, and Erin’s story offers a candid look at the highs and lows of this unique profession.