Flight Attendants


Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics > Flight Attendants > Working Conditions
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Flight Attendants

Flight Attendants - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, flight attendants:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Have a very high level of social contact with passengers.
  • Often speak in front of large groups of passengers.
  • Communicate mostly by face-to-face discussions and e-mail.
  • Work as part of a team of flight attendants.
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  • Are greatly responsible for the health and safety of passengers and coworkers.
  • Regularly deal with conflict situations in which they interact with unpleasant or angry passengers.
  • Are responsible for the work done by others.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Almost always work indoors and inside aircraft. Attendants who work for smaller airlines may work outdoors while helping passengers board aircraft.
  • Always wear a special uniform.
  • Are exposed to loud and distracting sounds and noise levels on a daily basis.
  • Work in close proximity to passengers and other attendants.
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  • Are often exposed to contaminants and radiation.
  • Regularly work in high places, such as the top of jetways.
  • Often work in cramped spaces that require getting into awkward positions.
  • Are regularly exposed to diseases and infections carried by passengers.
  • Are sometimes exposed to hazardous situations and whole body vibration.

Work Performance

  • Must be exact in their work and be sure all details are done.
  • Repeat the same physical and mental tasks.
  • Make decisions daily that greatly impact passengers and the airline's reputation without consulting a supervisor first.
  • Determine most, but not all, of their daily tasks and goals without consulting a supervisor first.
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  • Must meet daily deadlines.

Hours/Travel

  • May work part time or full time. Usually work less than 40 hours a week.
  • Schedules are usually irregular and determined by flight schedules.
  • May work nights, holidays, and weekends.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.