25 Flight Attendant Interview Questions and Answers
Learn what skills and qualities interviewers are looking for from a flight attendant, what questions you can expect, and how you should go about answering them.
Learn what skills and qualities interviewers are looking for from a flight attendant, what questions you can expect, and how you should go about answering them.
Flight attendants play a critical role in ensuring the safety and comfort of airline passengers. They must be able to handle difficult situations calmly and effectively, and they must also be able to provide excellent customer service.
If you’re looking for a flight attendant job, you’ll likely need to go through a flight attendant interview. In order to ace your interview, you’ll need to be prepared for a range of questions. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a list of common flight attendant interview questions and answers.
Flight attendants often work in a fast-paced environment, so employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable with that. In your answer, explain how you stay organized and prioritize tasks when working quickly.
Example: “Absolutely. I have been working as a Flight Attendant for the past five years and am very comfortable in a fast-paced environment. My experience has taught me to remain calm under pressure, prioritize tasks, and multitask efficiently. I also understand the importance of being organized and staying ahead of schedule. I’m confident that my skillset would be an asset to your team and help contribute to the success of the company.”
Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you would fit in with their team. When answering, think of a few strengths that are relevant to the position. Some examples include patience, organization or communication skills.
Example: “My greatest strengths as a Flight Attendant are my excellent customer service skills, my ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations, and my extensive knowledge of airline safety procedures.
I have always been passionate about providing exceptional customer service and I take great pride in ensuring that all passengers feel safe and comfortable during their flight. I am highly organized and efficient when it comes to managing the needs of passengers and crew members alike. I also possess strong communication skills which allow me to effectively communicate with both passengers and colleagues.
Additionally, I am able to remain calm and professional even in difficult or stressful situations. I understand how important it is for passengers to feel secure and confident while flying, so I strive to provide them with an enjoyable experience by responding quickly and efficiently to any requests they may have.
Lastly, I have a thorough understanding of airline safety regulations and procedures. I have completed numerous training courses on aircraft evacuation, cabin safety, and emergency medical protocols. This knowledge has enabled me to be prepared for any situation that may arise while on board.”
Flight attendants often have to deal with difficult passengers. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle challenging situations calmly and professionally. In your answer, explain how you would use your communication skills to diffuse the situation. Share a specific example of a time when you had to do this in the past.
Example: “I understand that dealing with difficult passengers can be a challenge, but I am confident in my ability to handle such situations. My first priority would always be the safety of myself and other passengers, so if necessary, I would call for assistance from security or other crew members.
In addition, I have experience de-escalating tense situations by remaining calm and professional while addressing any issues. I believe that it is important to listen to the passenger’s concerns and try to find a solution that works for everyone. If needed, I could also offer an apology on behalf of the airline and provide information about our policies and procedures. Finally, I would document the incident thoroughly and report it to the appropriate authorities.”
This question is a great way to learn about your previous experience and how you feel about it. If you have no prior experience, employers may ask more questions about your willingness to serve food and drinks. When answering this question, be honest about your experience and highlight any skills or traits that helped you succeed in the role.
Example: “I have extensive experience serving food and beverages as a Flight Attendant. I have worked on both domestic and international flights, so I am familiar with the different types of cuisine and drinks that are served in-flight. I also understand how to handle special requests from passengers, such as dietary restrictions or allergies. During my time working as a Flight Attendant, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to presentation and customer service. I always strive to ensure that each passenger is comfortable and happy with their meal and beverage selection. I take pride in providing excellent customer service and making sure that every passenger has a pleasant flight experience.”
Flight attendants are often the first and last point of contact for customers. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience providing excellent customer service. Use your answer to highlight a time when you went above and beyond to help someone. Explain what motivated you to provide exceptional service in that situation.
Example: “I recently had a customer who was very unhappy with their experience on the flight. They were so frustrated that they threatened to file a complaint against the airline. I quickly took action and made sure that the customer felt heard and valued.
I started by apologizing for the inconvenience and then asked them what I could do to make it right. After listening carefully, I offered them an upgrade to first class for the remainder of their trip as well as a complimentary meal voucher. The customer was extremely pleased with my response and thanked me for going above and beyond.
This situation taught me the importance of being proactive in providing exceptional customer service. It also showed me how important it is to listen to customers’ needs and be willing to go the extra mile to ensure satisfaction. These are qualities that I believe would make me an excellent Flight Attendant.”
Flight attendants often need to respond quickly and calmly in emergency situations. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills necessary to handle a challenging situation. In your answer, explain how you would assess the situation and provide medical assistance if needed. Share any specific training or experience that makes you qualified for this role.
Example: “If a passenger needed medical assistance during a flight, I would respond with the utmost professionalism and care. First, I would assess the situation to determine if the issue was serious enough to require an emergency landing or if it could be handled in-flight. If the issue required an emergency landing, I would follow all safety protocols to ensure the safe and timely arrival of the aircraft.
Once the decision has been made on how to proceed, I would then provide comfort and reassurance to the affected passenger while also notifying the pilot and other crew members of the situation. I would remain calm and provide any necessary first aid or medical attention that is within my scope of practice. I would also keep the passengers informed of the situation and answer any questions they may have. Finally, I would document the incident for future reference.”
Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to handle a colleague who is not following company policies. In your answer, explain that you would first try to speak with the flight attendant in private and let them know about their behavior. If they do not change their actions, you would report it to your manager or another supervisor.
Example: “If I noticed another flight attendant acting inappropriately, my first priority would be to ensure the safety of the passengers. Depending on the situation, I would take appropriate action to de-escalate the situation and address the issue with the other Flight Attendant. I believe in being proactive and addressing issues head on in a professional manner.
I have experience dealing with difficult situations while working as a Flight Attendant. In these cases, I always strive to remain calm and composed while still taking decisive action. My goal is to create a safe environment for all passengers and crew members. I also understand the importance of following protocol and regulations when it comes to handling such matters.”
Flight attendants often work in high-stress environments. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle the pressure of working on an airplane. In your answer, explain how you manage stress and give examples of past experiences where you did so successfully.
Example: “I believe I handle stress very well. In my experience as a Flight Attendant, I have encountered many stressful situations and have always been able to remain calm and composed under pressure. I am comfortable in high-pressure environments and can think quickly on my feet when needed. I also understand the importance of staying organized and prioritizing tasks in order to stay ahead of any potential issues that may arise.”
This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with emergency equipment in a flight cabin. If you do, share your experience and how it helped you complete the task. If you don’t have any experience, you can talk about what you would do if faced with this situation.
Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with cabin emergency equipment. During my time as a Flight Attendant, I was responsible for conducting safety briefings and demonstrating the use of all onboard emergency equipment. This included oxygen masks, life vests, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. I also had to ensure that all passengers were familiar with the location and operation of these items in case of an emergency.
I am confident in my ability to quickly assess any situation and take appropriate action. I understand the importance of following protocol and staying calm during times of crisis. My past experiences have taught me how to remain composed under pressure and handle difficult situations with poise.”
Flight attendants need to be prepared in case of an emergency. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the necessary certifications and are committed to keeping them up-to-date. If your certifications are due for renewal, consider mentioning that you plan on renewing them soon. If they’re not due for a while, share when you last renewed them and how often you plan on updating them going forward.
Example: “I recently updated my first aid and CPR certifications in June of this year. I take the responsibility of being a Flight Attendant very seriously, so I make sure to stay up-to-date on all necessary certifications. I understand that providing passengers with the highest level of safety is paramount, and having current certifications is an important part of ensuring passenger safety.
In addition to keeping my certifications up-to-date, I also attend regular training sessions to ensure I am familiar with any new procedures or regulations for flight attendants. I believe it is essential to be well-informed and prepared for any situation that may arise during a flight. My experience as a Flight Attendant has taught me how to handle different situations calmly and professionally while still providing excellent customer service.”
The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your interpersonal skills and customer service abilities. Use examples from previous experiences where you helped customers feel welcome or assisted them with their needs.
Example: “I believe that being a friendly and approachable Flight Attendant is essential to providing an enjoyable experience for passengers. I would start by introducing myself with a warm smile and making sure each passenger feels welcomed on board. During the flight, I would take time to get to know my passengers, engaging in conversations about their travel plans or interests. I would also make sure to check in with them throughout the flight to ensure they are comfortable and have everything they need. Finally, I would thank them for flying with us as they disembark from the plane.”
In-flight entertainment systems are a key part of the flight attendant’s job. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with these systems and how you’ve used them in the past. If you have previous experience working with in-flight entertainment systems, describe what you did. If you don’t have any experience, explain that you’re willing to learn.
Example: “I have extensive experience working with in-flight entertainment systems. I have worked on a variety of different aircraft, from small regional jets to large international flights. During my time as a Flight Attendant, I have become well versed in the various types of in-flight entertainment systems and how they work.
I am comfortable troubleshooting any issues that may arise with these systems, such as audio or video problems. I also understand the importance of ensuring passengers are able to access the entertainment system quickly and easily. To this end, I make sure to provide clear instructions and assistance when needed. Furthermore, I always strive to keep up to date with new technologies and features so that I can ensure passengers receive the best possible service.”
Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their team. When answering, it’s important to highlight a skill or experience that makes you unique from other candidates. You may also want to mention something that is relevant to the job description.
Example: “I believe my experience as a Flight Attendant makes me an ideal candidate for this position. I have been working in the aviation industry for over five years, and during that time I have developed excellent customer service skills and a deep understanding of safety protocols. My ability to remain calm under pressure has enabled me to handle difficult situations with ease.
In addition, I am highly organized and detail-oriented which allows me to anticipate potential issues before they arise. I take pride in ensuring passengers feel comfortable and safe throughout their journey. I also strive to provide exceptional service by going above and beyond what is expected of me.”
This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your experience level. If you have worked for several airlines, be sure to list them all and explain what made each one unique. If you only have experience with one airline, it’s important to highlight the skills you learned there that make you a valuable candidate for this role.
Example: “I have had the pleasure of working for several airlines throughout my career as a Flight Attendant. I started my journey with United Airlines, where I worked for two years before transitioning to American Airlines. During this time, I gained valuable experience in customer service and safety protocols that I was able to apply to my subsequent roles.
After American Airlines, I moved on to Delta Air Lines, where I spent four years honing my skills in providing excellent customer service while ensuring passenger safety. While at Delta, I also received specialized training in dealing with difficult passengers and emergency situations.
Most recently, I have been employed by Southwest Airlines for the past three years. Here, I have further developed my expertise in customer service and safety procedures. In addition, I have become well-versed in the company’s policies and procedures and am confident that I can provide an exceptional level of service to your customers.”
Customer service is an important part of being a flight attendant. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the importance of providing good customer service to your passengers. In your answer, explain what makes good customer service and how it relates to being a flight attendant.
Example: “I believe the most important aspect of customer service is providing a positive and memorable experience for each customer. As a Flight Attendant, I understand that my role is to ensure passengers feel comfortable and safe throughout their journey. To do this, I strive to be friendly, helpful, and professional at all times. I also focus on being proactive in anticipating passenger needs before they arise. This could include offering extra blankets or snacks, helping with luggage, or simply engaging in conversation to help pass the time.”
This question can help the interviewer understand how you interact with passengers. You may be asked to describe a situation where you saw passengers wearing ear plugs and what you did in that situation.
Example: “I have been a Flight Attendant for the past five years and I can confidently say that I have seen passengers with ear plugs on almost every flight. Ear plugs are a great way to reduce noise levels, especially when flying in an airplane cabin. As a Flight Attendant, it is my responsibility to ensure passenger comfort and safety during their journey. Therefore, I always make sure to check if any of the passengers need ear plugs or other items to help them relax and enjoy their flight. I also provide passengers with information about how to use ear plugs properly and safely.”
Flight attendants often need to be able to handle stressful situations. This question is a good way for the interviewer to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure. In your answer, try to highlight how you would use your critical thinking skills to solve this situation in an efficient manner.
Example: “If I were to encounter a passenger with a severe allergy on board, my first priority would be to ensure their safety and comfort. I would start by asking the passenger what their specific allergies are so that I can take appropriate action. Once I have this information, I would make sure to inform the rest of the crew about the situation and ask them to avoid any contact with the allergen in question.
I would also provide the passenger with an EpiPen if they had one, or help them find one if they didn’t. If necessary, I would alert the pilot to the situation and request medical assistance at our destination. Finally, I would remain vigilant throughout the flight, monitoring the passenger’s condition and offering support as needed. My goal is always to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every passenger onboard.”
Flight attendants are responsible for ensuring the safety of passengers. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand and can perform these important tasks. In your answer, explain which protocols you know how to do and why they’re important. If there are any that you haven’t done before, let the employer know that you would learn them if you were hired.
Example: “Safety is my top priority as a Flight Attendant. I always make sure to follow all safety protocols and procedures in order to ensure the safety of passengers. Before each flight, I go through a thorough pre-flight check to make sure that all equipment is functioning properly and that all emergency exits are accessible. During the flight, I remain vigilant and attentive to any potential safety issues or concerns. I am also trained in CPR and first aid so that I can respond quickly and effectively in case of an emergency. Finally, I regularly review safety regulations and guidelines to stay up to date on any changes or updates. By following these safety protocols, I am confident that I can provide a safe and comfortable experience for all passengers.”
This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and stressful situations. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation that you handled well and the steps you took to resolve the issue or problem.
Example: “In my previous role as a flight attendant, I had a passenger who was very upset about their delayed flight. The passenger began yelling at me and other crew members, which made some of our other passengers nervous. I calmly approached the passenger and asked if we could speak privately in the galley area. Once there, I explained that I understood why they were frustrated but that I would do everything I could to make sure they got home safely. After speaking with them for a few minutes, I learned that they were just stressed out from work and apologized for raising their voice.”
Example: “I have had to manage a few difficult passenger situations in my time as a Flight Attendant. One situation that stands out was when I had to deal with an unruly passenger who was being disruptive and causing a disturbance on the flight.
I first tried to de-escalate the situation by speaking calmly and politely to the passenger, but they were not responding positively. At this point, I knew I needed to take further action to ensure the safety of all passengers onboard. I then spoke to the captain and asked for assistance from other crew members to help me control the situation. We were able to eventually calm the passenger down and get them back into their seat.
Once the situation was under control, I continued to monitor the passenger throughout the remainder of the flight. I also made sure to speak to the other passengers and apologize for any disruption caused. This experience taught me how important it is to remain professional and composed in such situations, even when faced with difficult circumstances. It also showed me the importance of working together with other crew members in order to ensure everyone’s safety.”
Passengers often lose their passports during flights, and flight attendants need to be prepared for these situations. Your answer should show that you can handle unexpected events with ease. In your response, explain how you would help the passenger while also ensuring the safety of everyone on board.
Example: “If a passenger has lost their passport during a flight, I would handle the situation with the utmost care and professionalism. First, I would assess the situation to determine if the passenger needs immediate assistance or can wait until we have landed. If they need immediate help, I would contact the airline’s customer service department for further instructions.
Once the plane has landed, I would take the necessary steps to locate the missing passport. This may include searching through overhead compartments, seat pockets, and other areas of the aircraft where the passport may be located. I would also ask the passengers if anyone had seen it. If the passport is not found on board, I would inform the passenger that they should contact the relevant authorities in order to obtain a new one.
In addition, I would provide any additional support needed by the passenger throughout the process. This could include providing them with information about how to apply for a new passport, helping them find accommodation while they are waiting for their passport to arrive, and offering emotional support. My goal would be to ensure that the passenger feels safe and secure throughout this difficult time.”
Flight attendants often have to give safety demonstrations and announcements before a flight takes off. Employers ask this question to make sure you are comfortable speaking in front of large groups of people. Use your answer to show the interviewer that you can confidently speak in front of others. Share an example of a time when you gave a presentation or speech in front of a group.
Example: “Absolutely. I have extensive experience speaking in front of large groups of people as a Flight Attendant. During my time at my previous job, I was responsible for making announcements to the entire plane and providing instructions on safety procedures. I also had to answer questions from passengers about their flight and provide them with information about our services. My ability to remain calm and composed while speaking in front of a large group of people has been essential to my success as a Flight Attendant.
I am confident that I can bring this same level of professionalism and poise to your company. I understand the importance of being able to communicate effectively with passengers and crew members alike, and I am prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort during flights.”
If the airline you’re interviewing with has international routes, an interviewer may ask this question to see if you have any foreign language skills. If you do, they might want to know how many languages you speak and what your level of fluency is in each one. They might also want to know which foreign languages you can read or write.
Example: “Yes, I do have experience with foreign languages. During my previous job as a Flight Attendant, I was required to learn Spanish and French in order to better communicate with passengers from different countries. I took classes at a local language school and also used online resources to practice and improve my skills. I am now proficient in both Spanish and French, which has been very helpful when interacting with international travelers. In addition, I can understand basic phrases in other languages such as German, Italian, and Portuguese. This is an invaluable asset for any Flight Attendant, as it allows me to provide excellent customer service to all of our passengers regardless of their native language.”
This question can help interviewers assess your customer service skills and ability to educate customers about airline policies. Use examples from previous experience to show how you helped customers understand the policies and procedures of an airline.
Example: “I have extensive experience working with customers who are unfamiliar with airline policies and procedures. In my current role as a Flight Attendant, I am often the first person passengers interact with when they board the plane. I take this responsibility seriously and strive to ensure that all passengers feel comfortable and informed about their flight.
When interacting with passengers who are not familiar with airline policies and procedures, I make sure to explain them in an easy-to-understand way. I also provide additional resources if needed, such as pamphlets or websites. I understand how important it is for passengers to be aware of what to expect during their journey, so I always go above and beyond to ensure they feel secure and knowledgeable.”
This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have a strong understanding of what it takes to be successful in this role. When answering, consider which skills you feel are most important for success and highlight those.
Example: “I believe the most important skill for a successful flight attendant is customer service. As a Flight Attendant, I understand that my primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers on board the aircraft. In order to do this effectively, I must be able to provide excellent customer service. This includes being friendly and courteous while remaining professional at all times.
Additionally, I believe it is important to have strong communication skills in order to effectively communicate with passengers, crew members, and other personnel. Being able to clearly explain instructions and answer questions quickly and accurately can help reduce confusion and stress during flights. It is also important to remain calm and composed when dealing with difficult passengers or situations.”
Flight attendants often have to deal with passengers who are upset about something. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to handle these situations and keep everyone safe on the plane. In your answer, explain that you would try to calm the passenger down and resolve their issue as quickly as possible. You can also mention any specific skills or techniques you use to help you stay calm in these situations.
Example: “Yes, I have had to deal with unruly passengers in the past. In all cases, my approach has been to remain calm and professional while addressing the issue at hand. My first step is always to assess the situation and determine if the passenger’s behavior is a safety risk or not. If it is, then I will take immediate action to ensure the safety of other passengers and crew members on board. This may involve informing the captain, requesting assistance from ground personnel, or even having the passenger removed from the aircraft.
If the situation does not pose an immediate safety risk, then I will try to de-escalate the situation by speaking calmly to the passenger and listening to their concerns. I also make sure to explain any policies and procedures that are relevant to the situation so that the passenger understands why certain actions must be taken. Finally, I document the incident and follow up with the appropriate authorities as needed.”