Each airline maintains specific standards that their staff must adhere to while in uniform. The airline’s image is crucial to its reputation, as an unkempt crew can reflect poorly on the airline’s standards. Long-haul flights offer advantages over short-haul ones. When a flight attendant arrives at their destination after disembarking from the aircraft, they are provided accommodation in a comfortable hotel, with all expenses covered.
A glimpse into a day in the life of a long-haul flight attendant
After a long flight to a destination like Ho Chi Minh City passengers often inquire whether the crew is immediately flying back to the departure city. Working as part of a crew is tiring, and any existing ailments can be exacerbated at 35,000 feet. The aircraft’s pressurization at 7,000 feet and recycled air can magnify discomforts like headaches and toothaches. All airlines must adhere to agreements with their respective Civil Aviation Authorities, which regulate crew and pilot working hours for safety reasons. The cabin crew’s role is as crucial as that of the captain, especially during unexpected emergency situations.
Benefits of being a long-haul flight attendant
One advantage of long-haul flying is that crew members don’t need to reside near the airport. Commuting is possible even from abroad, often utilizing staff travel flight concessions. However, these concessions often work on a standby basis, so missing a rostered flight due to standby availability won’t be accepted as an excuse.
The lifestyle of a long-haul flight attendant
The lifestyle of a long-haul crew member involves adhering to strict flight schedules year-round. Assigning trips among crew members proves challenging due to factors like unexpected delays, aircraft types, sickness levels, and more. Physical fitness, agility, and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for long-haul flight attendants. They spend extended periods on their feet in confined spaces, pushing heavy trolleys, sometimes amidst turbulence and jet lag.
A typical long-haul flight
A typical long-haul trip begins at the crew’s designated airport base. Crew members gather in a briefing room, often unfamiliar with their colleagues if they don’t fly with the same people every trip. The in-charge crew member briefs the team on flight requirements, including special needs passengers, passenger loads, unaccompanied children, and more. Crew members then select or are assigned their positions on the aircraft. Onboard, crew members perform safety equipment checks, load catering, and verify passenger loads.
Arrival and rest for cabin crew
Upon arrival at the destination and clearing customs, company transportation takes crew members to their hotel. Crews might socialize for drinks and meals to unwind after the day’s challenges. Airline schedules vary for layover times. Quality rest before the next flight is essential.
Making the most of the experience
Upon arrival at the destination and clearing customs, company transportation takes crew members to their hotel. Crews might socialize for drinks and meals to unwind after the day’s challenges. Airline schedules vary for layover times. Quality rest before the next flight is essential.
Final thoughts
Long-haul flight attendants undertake demanding roles that require maintaining high standards, responding to emergencies, and ensuring passengers’ comfort. Despite the challenges, this career allows for exploration and experiences in various countries, making it a unique and enriching journey.
