flight attendant career path
While becoming a flight attendant can be an exciting prospect, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the career path available in this field. Without a clear career path, it can be challenging for aspiring flight attendants to know how to progress in their careers, which can lead to a lack of job satisfaction and career stagnation.
New hire flight attendant
The Flight Attendant is responsible for ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers during flights. This includes conducting pre-flight safety checks, providing excellent customer service, and responding to in-flight emergencies. The Flight Attendant will work closely with other crew members to ensure that all flight operations are conducted efficiently and safely.
Next Step
At this point in your career, a flight attendant’s job performance, safety record, and ability to handle emergency situations will typically be the most important factors in determining career advancement.
In-Flight Supervisor
An In-Flight Supervisor is not the same as a Lead Flight Attendant, although there may be some overlap in their job duties. An In-Flight Supervisor is a management position responsible for overseeing the in-flight service delivery and ensuring that airline policies and procedures are followed. In contrast, a Lead Flight Attendant is a more experienced flight attendant who takes on additional responsibilities.
Lead Flight Attendant, Chief Flight Attendant, Senior Flight Attendant or Purser
Different airlines use different terminology. Lead Flight Attendant, Chief Flight Attendant, Senior Flight Attendant or Purser are all titles of (generally) the same job position.
The timeline for a new hire to become a Lead or Senior Flight Attendant can vary depending on the airline and their specific career path structure, as well as factors such as performance and seniority. However, it is not uncommon for flight attendants to become a Lead or Senior Flight Attendant after 2-3 years of experience.
Next Step
Your next step in your career path would depend on a number of factors, including your personal goals, the opportunities available within the airline, and your performance as a Lead Flight Attendant.
The specific positions available may vary by airline and other factors, but these are some examples of potential career paths for individuals in the In-Flight Supervisor role. Additionally, as with any career, networking and building relationships with colleagues and superiors can help open up new opportunities for advancement.
Flight Attendant Manager
With additional education and/or training, a Lead Flight Attendant may be able to progress to a management role within the flight attendant department, such as a Flight Attendant Manager. This could involve responsibilities such as overseeing the hiring and training of new flight attendants, developing policies and procedures related to in-flight service and safety, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. For this position, a degree in a related field such as business or hospitality may be beneficial.
In general, a Flight Attendant Manager is a mid-level management position that requires experience in flight attendant operations, as well as strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. An individual with a proven track record of success as a Lead Flight Attendant or In-Flight Supervisor, along with demonstrated leadership and management skills, may be considered for a Flight Attendant Manager role even without a bachelor’s degree.
For an Flight Attendant Manager job description, Click Here!
In-Flight Services Manager
This is a management position responsible for overseeing the in-flight services department, including flight attendant operations, catering, and cabin appearance. The In-Flight Services Manager is responsible for ensuring high-quality service delivery to passengers, managing staff, developing and implementing policies and procedures, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. This position may require a bachelor’s degree in hospitality or aviation management, as well as several years of experience in airline operations or a related field.
For an In-Flight Services Manager job description, Click Here!
Flight Training Manager
This is a management position responsible for developing and implementing training programs for flight attendants. The In-Flight Training Manager is responsible for ensuring that flight attendants receive comprehensive and ongoing training on all aspects of their job, including safety, emergency procedures, and customer service. This position may require a degree in education or a related field, as well as experience in training or adult education.
For an In-Flight Training Manager job description, Click Here!
Corporate Safety Manager
This is a management position responsible for overseeing safety programs for the airline, including safety training and emergency procedures. The Corporate Safety Manager is responsible for ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements related to safety and emergency procedures, and for developing and implementing safety policies and procedures. This position may require a degree in safety management, engineering, or a related field.
For an Corporate Safety Manager job description, Click Here!
Flight Recruiter
This is a specialized role responsible for recruiting and hiring new flight attendants. The In-Flight Recruiter is responsible for managing the recruitment process, including screening resumes, conducting interviews, and making hiring decisions. They may also be responsible for developing and implementing recruitment strategies to attract a diverse pool of candidates. This position may require a combination of relevant experience, skills in communication and human resources, and knowledge of airline operations.
In-Flight Standards Manager
This position involves ensuring that all aspects of in-flight operations meet or exceed regulatory and industry standards. In-Flight Standards Managers may develop and update standard operating procedures, conduct audits and inspections, and provide feedback and coaching to flight attendants to ensure that they are meeting all relevant standards and requirements.
For an In-Flight Standards Manager job description, Click Here!
In-Flight Customer Service Manager
This position involves managing the overall customer experience during flights, ensuring that customers are well-served and their needs are met. In-Flight Customer Service Managers may develop and implement customer service policies and procedures, train flight attendants in customer service best practices, and monitor customer feedback to identify areas for improvement.
For an In-Flight Customer Service Manager job description, Click Here!
Are You Ready to Become a Flight Attendant?
Still wondering how to become a flight attendant?
Then check out our post: How To Become A Flight Attendant – The Ultimate Guide!
Or you can check out the next post in the series, Working long haul Vs short haul flights? Explore the pros and cons of each type of flight, helping you make an informed decision that’s best for you.