How to Become a Female Flight Attendant

Becoming a flight attendant is a dream for many women. It can be an exciting and rewarding career, but it takes hard work to achieve this goal. In order to become a successful female flight attendant, you will need to meet certain qualifications and complete the necessary training. There are also some important things you should know about the job before you apply.

The number of women employed as cabin crew is increasing, and this trend is expected to continue. More than three-quarters (78%) preferred it to their male crew counterparts who make up 22% of the airline industry workforce today.

Also Read: What are Flight Attendant Physical and Beauty Standards?

This article will walk you through each step involved in becoming a female flight attendant, from learning what airlines employ women as cabin crew members to completing the application process and receiving training. When you send your CV, airline firms will be eager enough to call you in for an interview after reading this guide!

etihad female uniform
Image: Etihad

History of Female Flight Attendants

The first female flight attendants were employed by United Airlines in 1930. Ellen Church is credited with being the first woman to work as a flight attendant. She was a registered nurse and approached United Airlines with the idea of having nurses on board flights to provide medical assistance to passengers in case of an emergency.

At the time, they were known as “stewardesses” and their main job was to serve food and drinks to passengers. They were also responsible for providing any other assistance that passengers might need, such as answering questions about the aircraft or helping them to find their seats.

The role of the stewardess has evolved over the years, and today flight attendants are responsible for a wide range of tasks. These include safety procedures, such as demonstrating how to use an oxygen mask in the event of an emergency. They also help passengers to disembark the aircraft safely in the event of an evacuation.

In addition, flight attendants may also be required to provide first aid assistance to passengers who become ill during the flight. The majority of flight attendants today are women, although there is a growing number of male and transgender flight attendants as well. This change is due in part to changing social norms (especially in Western countries) and the increased acceptance of people of all genders in the workplace. It is also due in part to efforts by labor unions to achieve equality for all workers, regardless of gender identity.

Despite these changes, most airlines still prefer to hire female flight attendants. This is because they believe that women are better suited than men for the job, due to their compassionate nature and communication skills.

american airlines female flight attendants uniform
Image: American Airlines
aeroflot female flight attendant uniforms
Image: Aeroflot

Why are there more female cabin crew than male?

For many years, flight attendants were mostly female. There are several reasons for this.

  1. Women are traditionally seen as more nurturing and better suited to providing care and assistance.
  2. Airlines felt that having mostly female flight attendants would be more reassuring for passengers, who were often mostly male at the time.
  3. Airlines believed that female flight attendants would be less likely to unionize.
  4. Women (in the past) generally paid less than men, so hiring mostly women helped to keep labor costs down. Nowadays, salaries for men and women flight attendants are usually equal.
  5. Branding. Airlines felt that having an all-female or mostly female cabin crew conveyed a certain image or brand for the airline. For example, Virgin Atlantic is known for its attractive and stylish female flight attendants.

In recent years, however, there has been a shift towards a more diverse workforce on airplanes, with an increasing number of male and transgender flight attendants. This change is due in part to changing social norms and the increased acceptance of people of all genders in the workplace. It is also due in part to efforts by labor unions to achieve equality for all workers, regardless of gender identity.

Eurowings female cabin crews full uniform
Image: Eurowings

Why is a Female Crew Needed inside a Flight?

The main reason for employing a female cabin crew is to ensure safety and security inside the aircraft. It is also believed that women are better suited than men for this task as they are more compassionate and have better communication skills.

There are also cultural differences (especially in Middle East countries) where a woman is only allowed to interact with another woman, and the same goes for men. So it is important to have a female crew on the flight.

Airlines also believe that having a female presence on board will make passengers feel more comfortable and less anxious during their flight. Many airlines also believe that having female flight attendants will help to boost their image and appeal to a wider range of customers.

cham wings female flight attendants
Image: Cham Wings Airlines

What are the Qualifications for Female Flight Attendants?

In order to become a flight attendant, you will need to meet certain qualifications. These vary depending on the airline you are applying to, but there are some common requirements that all airlines typically look for.

For example, most airlines require flight attendants to be at least 21 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to be able to speak English fluently and have a valid passport.

Some airlines may also require you to have a college degree, although this is not always necessary. Additionally, most airlines prefer flight attendants who have customer service experience, as well as those who have some knowledge of a second language.

MEA airlines Air Liban female flight attendants
Image: Middle East Airlines

What do you call a female flight attendant?

A female flight attendant is typically referred to as a “flight stewardess”. They are also referred to as an “air hostess”. However, these terms are gradually being phased out in favor of the more gender-neutral label “flight attendant” or “cabin crew”.

Flight attendants were hired for their looks and personality in the early days of commercial aviation, just as much as their ability to perform necessary safety functions. As a result, the majority of flight attendants have been young women throughout history, and the position has been seen as a stepping stone to other opportunities.

Also Read: What is the Difference Between Cabin Crew and Flight Attendant?

oman air female flight crew
Image: Oman Air

What are the job responsibilities of a female cabin crew?

There isn’t much of a distinction between the tasks and responsibilities of a male and female cabin crew. Cabin crew members work hard to provide passengers with a safe and pleasant trip. Cabin crews play a vital role in ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers during flights. They are responsible for making sure that everyone is seated properly and has their seatbelt fastened, as well as handling any disruptions or delays that occur during the flight.

Flight attendants’ job descriptions usually include checking the aircraft cabin before boarding time; checking in cargo holds if needed–and then taking care of each passenger and themselves by making sure they’re well-rested after 10-12 hour shifts at best!

They maintain all of their requirements from the second they board, ensuring that everything runs smoothly while traveling across different sections of an airplane or helicopter cabin – even if it means assisting when needed!

Cabin crews also provide information about what’s going on around them including announcements made by air traffic controllers in case there is ever any confusion during flight time.

A cabin crew member’s workday typically consists mostly of standing, but they may have to walk outside where the footing is not always stable.

piedmont female flight attendants
Image: Piedmont Airlines

What are the cabin crew female requirements?

Each airline company has different specific requirements for their female flight attendant applicants. Here is a general list of requirements that are common among most airlines:

  • Minimum 18 years old (20 or 21 for certain USA airline companies)
  • Meet the height requirements (158cm to 185cm) depending on the airline company. Some require a minimum height reach of 212 cm without shoes.
  • Have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Fluency in English (written and spoken) — in most airlines, May be required to speak the native language of a country-specific airline
  • No visible tattoos
  • People-oriented and have a customer service background
  • Physically fit with a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI)
  • Weight must be proportionate to height.
  • Good and Healthy skin
  • Only one piercing on each ear

The above is just a general overview of the physical standards in terms of being a female cabin crew. Be advised that some airlines may have specific requirements in order for you to qualify. It is best to check with the airline that you are applying to in order to find out what their specific requirements may be.

QR female flight attendant staff
Image: Qatar Airways

How to Become a Female Cabin Crew?

It’s never easy to become a female flight attendant, but with these steps, you’ll be well on your way.

1. Check the airline requirements.

The first step is to make sure that you meet the minimum requirements for the airline that you are applying to. Each airline has different requirements, so it is important to check with the airline that you are interested in working for.

2. Submit your application.

The best way to become a female flight attendant is to get a job with an airline. There are many airlines that hire female flight attendants, so it should not be too difficult to find one that is hiring. To apply for Cabin Crew on any airline company website such as British Airways or American Airlines then first go onto each individual site’s homepage by clicking ‘career opportunities’ from within their respective menus at the top right corner next to where there will be an option named ‘Jobs’ or ‘Careers’.

3. Wait for the golden call.

After you have submitted your application, all you can do is wait to hear back from the airline. If they are interested in hiring you, they will give you a call to come in for an interview.

emirates airline cabin crew
Emirates Cabin Crew
Photo: Emirates Airlines

4. Pass the interview and screening stages.

Once you have submitted your application, you will be contacted by the airline to schedule an interview. Be sure to dress professionally and to arrive on time. During the interview, the interviewer will ask you questions about your customer service experience and why you want to become a flight attendant.

5. Submit documents and pass the medical exams.

After you have passed the interview, you will be asked to submit some documents such as your passport, birth certificate, and diploma. You will also need to pass a medical exam to make sure that you are physically fit to be a flight attendant.

6. Complete the training program.

If you are successful in the interview and medical exam, you will be offered a job and will be required to complete a training program. The training program will teach you everything you need to know about being a flight attendant, such as emergency procedures and how to deal with difficult passengers. Once you have completed the training program, you will be ready to start your new career as a female flight attendant.

Virgin Australia female crew
Image: Virgin Australia

What is the Salary of a Female Cabin Crew?

The salary of a female cabin crew can vary depending on the airline that you work for. However, most airlines will offer a basic salary plus allowances and benefits. Be advised that there no difference in salary and benefits between a male crew and a female crew. Flight attendants are provided a salary that consists of the following:

  • Basic Pay – the standard base rate that you will get every month
  • Flying Hours Pay – the salary paid per hour that you are on the flight’
  • Layover Allowance – the per diem allowance you get for a day that you stay in another country to rest after your flight duty.

The salary will depend on the above factors and female flight attendants will get usually get a higher salary if they have more flights in a month.

Also Read: Can I Apply as a Cabin Crew Even if I am Dark-Skinned?

sky express greece female flight attendants
Image: Sky Express

Is a Cabin Crew Job for Male or Female?

Cabin crew are responsible for the safety and comfort of passengers on flights. They are typically either male or female, although there is a growing trend toward mixed-gender crews. There are many different roles in the cabin crew, including flight attendants, air stewards, and air hostesses.

A flight attendant job can be for a man or woman so long as you’re willing and able, and you also meet the qualifications and requirements needed for the role. But do take note that there are some airlines that post a job event with a specific gender in mind.

This is not directed at you; it’s a legal requirement that the airline must fulfill in order to maintain its own crew quota. If the airline firm does not indicate gender on its job board, you may apply as a crew and submit your application.

azur air female cabin crew job
Image: S7 Airline

Pros and Cons of Being a Female Flight Attendant

There are many pros and cons of being a female flight attendant. While the job offers great pay, benefits, and travel perks, it also requires long hours, odd shifts, and dealing with difficult passengers.

Some pros of being a female flight attendant include:

  • Great pay: Female flight attendants earn an average salary of $56,000 per year.
  • Flexible schedule: Flight attendants often have a flexible schedule that allows them to take time off when they need it.
  • Excellent benefits: In addition to a great salary, female flight attendants also receive free or discounted travel, health insurance, and retirement plans.
  • Travel perks: One of the best things about being a female flight attendant is the ability to travel the world for free or at a heavily discounted rate.

Some cons of being a female flight attendant include:

  • Long hours: Flight attendants often work long hours, including overnight and weekend shifts.
  • Odd shifts: Flight attendants may be asked to work odd shifts, including early mornings, late nights, and holidays.
  • Dealing with difficult passengers: Flight attendants must deal with difficult passengers on a daily basis, which can be stressful.
  • Grueling on Your Body: Especially for women cabin crew, the job is a very physical job and can take a toll on your body.
  • Stricter Policies for Female Crew: There are often stricter policies in place for female flight attendants, such as a dress code and curfew. Let’s not forget that going on maternity leave as a flight attendant can be complicated. After all, you are not legally allowed to fly if you become pregnant.

While there are some downsides to being a female flight attendant, the pros outweigh the cons for many women. If you’re interested in becoming a female flight attendant, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications for the position.

thai airways female crew
Image: Thai Airways

Top Reasons why Women should work as a Cabin Crew

So, you’re interested in becoming a flight attendant? It’s an exciting job that offers a lot of benefits, including free meals, discounted airfare, and more. Here are some popular reasons why you should work as a cabin crew:

1. Free or discounted airfare: As a flight attendant, you’ll be able to fly for free or at a heavily discounted rate. This is a great perk if you love to travel.

2. Always a different day: One of the best things about being a flight attendant is that no two days are the same. You’ll get to meet new people and see new places on a daily basis.

3. Free meals: Another great perk of being a flight attendant is that you’ll always have access to free meals. This is a great benefit if you’re looking to save money on food costs.

4. Discounted hotel rates: As a flight attendant, you’ll also be able to take advantage of hotel layovers and discounted hotel rates. This is a great benefit if you plan on traveling for leisure or business purposes.

5. Good pay and benefits: Flight attendants typically earn a good salary and have great benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans.

6. Stepping Stone: For many people, being a flight attendant is a stepping stone to a larger career in the airline industry. If you’re interested in eventually becoming a pilot or working in another capacity within the airline, being a flight attendant is a great way to get your foot in the door.

So these are just some of the benefits available to you if you become a flight attendant. It’s certainly an exciting and rewarding career choice. If you think you have what it takes, then go for it! We encourage you to follow your dreams.

jazeera airways female flight attendants pose
Image: Jazeera Airways

Video: Strict Training Protocols for Female Cabin Crew

Here is a video documentary about the grooming and cabin crew standards for female cabin crew by Singapore Airlines. This goes to show that it’s really important for them to look professional and perfect while they’re on duty.

Video: How Flight Attendants are Trained

Just to remind everyone, female flight attendants are responsible for the safety and security inside the aircraft. If anything happens to you, it’s their job to help and save you. This video clip about Delta Airlines cabin crew training below features the rigorous training that they go through to make sure they’re always prepared for the worst.

Photos: Female Flight Attendants from Different Airlines

Check out these pictures of female flight attendants from different airlines. As you can see, they all look very professional and chic while they’re on duty.

Female Grooming and Uniform Image Standards

Female cabin crew uniforms are more distinct compared to their male counterparts who usually just wear suits. The colors and look of air hostess uniforms have more designs, variety, and femininity to them. Airline companies usually use a face of a female to promote their company as it attracts more customers.

The standards for female grooming and uniforms are generally stricter compared to men. This is because they need to look presentable and professional at all times while they’re on duty. There are a lot of people who are flying for the first time and they usually feel more comfortable if the flight attendant looks put together and trustworthy.

Grooming standards for women are also more strict, after all, the women wear make-up so they have to look presentable at all times. Some of the standards for female grooming include:

  • Hair must be styled neatly and should not touch the collar or ears
  • Wearing makeup that enhances the natural beauty
  • Nails must be clean and polished
  • The Uniform must be pressed and free from wrinkles
  • Shoes must be clean and polished

This is because when you’re working as a flight attendant, you’re required to project a polished and professional image at all times. Your uniform is one of the first things that passengers will notice about you, so it’s important to make sure you look your best.

Some of the popular airlines known for their stylish and distinct female cabin crew uniforms include Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.

air asia female cabin crew
Image: AirAsia
ellinair female flight attendants smile
Image: Ellinair

Summary

Being a female flight attendant is a very rewarding job. You get to meet new people and see new places every day, and you also have access to great benefits, including free meals and discounted airfare. It’s a great way to see the world, and it’s also a great way to build your resume and network with other professionals in the airline industry.

There are some downsides to the job, such as long hours and strict policies, but overall, it’s a great career choice for many women. If you’re interested in becoming a female flight attendant, make sure to do your research and apply to the position that best suits your skills and qualifications.