The Final Hurdle – Pre Employment Checks
So, you’ve aced the assessment process and been told that the airline want you on their crew! Good work! However there are a couple of things that the airline need to do before they can finalise your employment offer.
These take the form of at least one background check (this depends on where you will be based) and a medical check.
Sounds a bit daunting doesn’t it?! Read on and we’ll explain what’s involved in the different types of checks.
The Background Check
These are carried out by a security vetting firm of the airline’s choice, and can take some time to complete depending on individual circumstances.
Most often you’ll receive a form via email to fill out, sent either by recruitment or directly from the security company.
Fill out the form completely and honestly!
This is a really important stage as if you do not pass these checks then the offer of employment will most likely be withdrawn.
You may have to upload passport photos and certificates proving your qualifications are accurate.
The checks will include criminal record checks, your financial history and your work and/or educational background for the last five to ten years (including any gaps which must be accounted for).
You’ll be asked to provide character witnesses and references, make sure you have up to date contact details for them. You must not be related to anyone who you use as a reference.
These kinds of checks can seem really scary, especially if it’s your first experience of them. But as long as you’ve been honest throughout the application process and when filling out the form you’ll have nothing to worry about.
The Medical Check
You’ll be required to have a medical examination carried out by an approved professional. The test is straightforward, however, if you suffer from any of the following the recruitment team should be made aware:
- Seizures
- Colour blindness
- Lung disease
- Chronic illness or disability
As a general guide the examination will include a vision test (if you wear glasses or contact lenses you’ll be asked to have them on for this part), an ear test to check that your ears are healthy and can cope with the repeated pressure changes of take off and landing, blood tests and a drug/alcohol test.
The standard to pass the medical test is similar to the standard of fitness to drive so the majority of candidates will pass with no problem!
The cost of these checks will be covered by the airline and appointments are made through the recruitment team. If you have any questions you can give them a ring or drop them an email, they’ll be happy to advise you!
Is it a confirmed statement that Emirates, specifically, does a candidates’ financial background check? If there is any pendency with a bank, for example, is it a reason not to proceed with hiring?
Hi there,
Most of the major airlines include the financial checks within their general background checks – however these are designed to screen for any fraudulent or criminal activity, rather than to check the financial state of the candidate. If there is something you are worried might flag up in a check when applying as crew the best thing to do would be to contact the airline’s HR department and explain the situation, as each airline has slightly different rules.