While government regulators do not set a single, universal height restriction for flight attendants, airlines enforce a functional requirement that must be met for safety purposes. This standard is typically measured through an arm reach test. This test ensures all crew members can independently access necessary safety equipment inside the aircraft cabin. The ability to perform emergency duties, rather than standing height alone, is the primary concern for most air carriers.
Why Height Matters: The Functional Reach Test
The height standard for flight attendants is based on the functional ability to reach safety and emergency gear stowed in the aircraft. This requirement ensures every crew member can fulfill their duties effectively and independently during an emergency situation. The most common method for testing this capability is the functional reach test.
This test is specifically designed to confirm that an individual can access items like oxygen masks, fire extinguishers, and emergency supplies located in overhead bins or deep storage compartments. These items must be retrievable quickly and without assistance to manage various in-flight scenarios. The measurement focuses on a candidate’s maximum vertical reach with an extended arm, often while standing on tiptoes.
The concept of a “barefoot reach” is typically applied, meaning the ability to reach a specific marker on a wall is measured without shoes. This reach requirement is considered a more accurate safety measure than overall standing height. While some airlines require a flat-footed reach to touch a handle, the extended tiptoe reach is more common across the industry.
Typical Height and Reach Requirements
Specific numerical requirements are set by individual airlines based on the aircraft types they operate. Most international carriers require a minimum vertical arm reach between 208 and 212 centimeters (approximately 6 feet 9 inches to 6 feet 11 inches). This reach is typically measured with the candidate on tiptoes.
Many airlines also maintain a minimum standing height requirement, often ranging from 5 feet 2 inches to 5 feet 4 inches without shoes. This minimum ensures comfortable movement and visibility throughout the cabin. A maximum height limit may also be imposed, usually around 6 feet 2 inches, to ensure the attendant can stand upright in the aircraft without hitting their head. This maximum height is generally relevant for smaller, regional aircraft with lower cabin ceilings.
Essential Physical and Health Standards
Aspiring flight attendants must meet several mandatory physical and health standards to ensure fitness for duty.
Vision and Hearing
Vision standards often require 20/20 vision, which is permissible with the use of corrective lenses or contacts. Candidates also undergo hearing tests to confirm they can clearly hear in-flight announcements, respond to passenger needs, and follow instructions in a noisy cabin environment.
Stamina and Strength
The job demands significant physical stamina, requiring the ability to stand for extended periods and handle heavy loads. Applicants are tested on their ability to lift and push heavy items, such as emergency exit doors or fully loaded service carts, which can weigh over 250 pounds and require up to 32 pounds of force to maneuver. A general medical examination, including checks of cardiovascular health and blood pressure, ensures the candidate can handle the physical stress of irregular schedules and frequent time zone changes.
Key Non-Physical Eligibility Qualifications
Applicants must meet a set of fundamental non-physical prerequisites.
The minimum age requirement for the role is typically 18 to 21 years old, depending on the specific airline and country of operation. A high school diploma or its equivalent is universally required to demonstrate a baseline educational level.
Candidates must demonstrate legal eligibility to work, including appropriate citizenship or visa status for the airline’s operating region. A valid passport is often necessary, along with the ability to travel unrestricted internationally. Fluency in English is a common requirement for most airlines, and proficiency in a second language is viewed as a significant asset for international routes.
Navigating the Physical Assessment During Hiring
The hiring process includes a dedicated physical assessment to confirm that all required standards are met. The reach test is often one of the first checks, where the applicant stands barefoot against a wall or a mock-up of an aircraft interior. A recruiter observes as the candidate raises one hand to touch a clearly marked line, confirming the required vertical reach.
A comprehensive medical examination is also scheduled, which includes laboratory tests, a physical check-up, and a review of the candidate’s medical history. Applicants may need to demonstrate their strength and agility through functional tests. This can involve simulating the opening of an emergency exit or sitting in a jump seat to confirm the safety harness can be properly fastened and operated without issue.