Getting the Right Experience for becoming Cabin Crew

There’s no getting around the fact that applying to be Cabin Crew is very competitive, with hundreds more applicants than positions.

So how can you make sure that your application stands out?

Qualifications are great, but there are many other things the recruitment team will take into consideration – including relevant life and work experience which can help prove that you meet the requirements for the role.

But what kind of experience could this include? Some crew members shared their advice and opinions with us…

“Any type of customer service work is relevant – basically any time when your face to face with the public. Paid work or volunteer work, it all counts!”

“If you’re really into a team sport this can be a good example of working as a team-player, and showing commitment to something. It also shows you’re active and interested in your health and fitness.”

“Volunteer work with St John’s Ambulance as a first aider at events gave me valuable experience in working with the public and dealing with unexpected and sometimes scary situations, where I had to keep my cool and control the situation as best I could.”

“Sales experience is good to highlight for a lot of airlines – quite often you’ll be expected to meet a certain quota on duty-free sales, and often you get a bit of commission too!”

“Any kind of groups or organisations that promote team working and problem solving skills you might have done at school are great experience. Things like the Duke of Edinburgh Award, or Young Enterprise.”

“You can volunteer or get work in many roles at an airport, even if it’s just in a shop or information desk. Working in the airport environment is good relevant experience, and you can make contacts who might be able to help you with other experience.”

“Writing articles and submissions for crew blogs and websites is really fun, and looks good on your CV – it shows you have a real interest in the career and also helps your communication and writing skills.”