How to Answer: What is the Role of a Flight Attendant?

If you’re keen to getting the job a flight attendant, you’re probably familiar with the recruitment process. But, do you know how to answer the cabin crew question: “What do you know about the role of a flight attendant?” The question is usually one of the first asked by airline recruiters, so preparing your answer can set the tone for a successful interview.

To become a flight attendant, you need to understand the role and what it entails. It’s not all fun and games and luxury and travel – the job is more than that! Flight attendants are responsible for ensuring passengers have an enjoyable and safe experience during their flights. This means providing customer service, such as assisting with seat selection, taking orders for meals and drinks, and helping customers during the flight. But it doesn’t stop there – FAs must also comply with safety regulations, handle emergency situations, and provide first aid if needed.

Aside from great customer service skills, flight attendants must be knowledgeable about aircraft and their systems in order to respond quickly and correctly in case of an emergency. Please check out more tips about how to answer this particular interview question below.

what is the role of a flight attendant

Why the Airline Recruiter is Asking This

The airline company recruiter asks this question to test if you have done your research on the role and if you understand the specific duties and responsibilities the airline requires of their flight attendants. Your answer is an opportunity to demonstrate your industry knowledge, passion for the job, and alignment with the company’s vision.

After all, common impressions of cabin crew include glamorous hotels and travel, a life of luxury, and friendly passengers. But the reality is that this is a career that requires skill, extensive training, stress and pressure, and more than a few sleepless nights. Knowing this can help you stand out from other applicants, as it shows your commitment to the role and indicates that you understand the demands of being a flight attendant.

Other Variations to the Question

Here are some other variations of this question:

  • What is a flight attendant?
  • Tell me about your understanding of the role and responsibilities of a flight attendant.
  • What do you know about the job of a flight attendant?
  • Can you please tell me about the role of a flight attendant?
  • What do you think a cabin crew does?
  • What are the duties of a cabin crew?
  • What duties and responsibilities do you think a flight attendant has?
  • How would you describe the daily routine of a flight attendant?

No matter how the question is asked, your response should demonstrate that you understand the role and are willing to take on the responsibilities.

Also Read: How to Answer: What Motivates You on the Job?

A Step-by-Step Procedure to Answer the Question

In case you’re still feeling unsure about how to answer this question, here are some tips on crafting an impressive response.

  1. Start your answer by thanking the interviewer for the opportunity to interview for the flight attendant role.
  2. Explain that you have done your research on the position of the flight attendant, and you understand the specific needs of the airline.
  3. Discuss the key duties and responsibilities of a flight attendant, such as passenger safety, in-flight service, and cleanliness.
  4. Incorporate the airline’s mission statement and values into your answer, demonstrating your alignment with their vision.
  5. Conclude by summarizing your answer and highlighting how your skills and experience make you the ideal candidate for the position.

Sample Answers to the Question:

  1. “As a flight attendant, the safety and comfort of passengers are of utmost importance. I understand this is a responsibility I take seriously. Besides, ensuring passenger safety, I am aware that as a flight attendant, I need to serve food and drinks, operate audio-visual equipment, and make sure that the cabin is clean.”
  2. “I know that as a flight attendant, I will have a huge role in ensuring my airline’s mission of being the most customer-oriented airline comes to life. My role will entail ensuring that each passenger gets the best possible service as I am a face of the brand. I also understand that being a flight attendant requires someone who can be calm in stressful situations; I believe my experience as a crisis manager will come in handy in this job.”
  3. “I understand that as a flight attendant, I will be responsible for assisting passengers to safely board and exit the aircraft, as well as providing in-flight services such as serving meals, beverages, and answering passenger inquiries.”
  4. “In my research, I discovered that a cabin crew is the first line of defense in an emergency. I understand that I must be able to quickly react, remember procedures, and demonstrate leadership during any inflight emergency. Additionally, I am aware that multitasking, prioritizing, and communication skills are essential in this role.”
  5. “As a cabin crew, I know that I will be representing the airline’s brand through my communication with passengers. I am aware of the importance of being empathetic, kind, and understanding to meet our airline’s exceptional customer service standards.”
  6. “One of the key requirements in every flight attendant‘s job description is to communicate and enforce safety rules, so I know that I will be responsible for conducting pre-flight safety demonstrations and responding to any in-flight emergencies. Additionally, I will be expected to maintain a spotless cabin and provide in-flight drinks and snacks.”
  7. “I understand that, in addition to providing excellent customer service and maintaining passenger safety, a flight attendant must also have impeccable time management and organizational skills. I appreciate the importance of keeping an orderly and clean workspace, and I am confident in my ability to be efficient and effective in this position.”

Tips on How to Answer This Question

Please keep the following tips in mind as you craft your response to this question:

  • Use the job description to identify the typical duties of a flight attendant.
  • Research the airline’s culture, values, and mission statement to adapt your answers to their specific needs.
  • Share your previous work experience that aligns with the duties and responsibilities of a flight attendant, demonstrating your transferable skills.
  • When possible, provide examples to illustrate how you handled situations within a previous job.
  • Conclude by summarizing and reiterating why you are the ideal candidate for the role.

Questions to Ask Yourself to Help You Answer This Question

In order to show strength and effectively answer this question, consider the following questions:

  • What are the primary duties and responsibilities of a flight attendant?
  • What specific skills and knowledge are required for this role?
  • What are some unique challenges or expectations associated with being a flight attendant?
  • How can I demonstrate my alignment with the airline’s culture and values?
  • What personal experiences or skills do you have that align with the responsibilities of a flight attendant?

Examples of Bad Answers

It’s essential to note some examples of bad answers to this question. Avoid these answers when responding as they show weakness in the interview:

  1. “I don’t really know much about it, but I’m sure I can learn on the job.” This answer shows a lack of preparation and interest in the role.
  2. “I know that flight attendants travel a lot and look great in their uniforms.” This answer shows superficiality and a lack of understanding of the role’s requirements.
  3. “I know that flight attendants serve food and drinks.” This answer shows only partial knowledge of the role’s requirements and responsibilities.
  4. “I think a flight attendant is just like a server, but in the sky.” This answer shows a lack of understanding of the scope of the job and a lack of respect for the professional status of flight attendants.
  5. “I’m not sure, but I’m willing to do anything it takes to get the job.” This answer shows a lack of research, preparation, and commitment to the role.

Video: Role and Responsibilities of a Cabin Crew

This is an “oldie but goodie” type of video as it features the roles and responsibilities of a cabin crew featured in a no-nonsense clip.

It’s an excellent resource to learn more about the role, as it explains everything in a succinct and accurate manner.

You’ll get a good idea of what to expect from the job, so take notes! And be sure to think about how you can adapt your answers to the specific airline that is interviewing you.

Summary

Answering the “What do you know about the role of a flight attendant?” question requires preparation, research, and a solid understanding of the position’s responsibilities and requirements.

Remember to tailor your answer to the airline’s culture and values, provide examples to illustrate your experience and skills, and be confident in your ability to perform the job’s duties. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job as a flight attendant.