20 United Airlines Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to interviews, every company has their own unique process. And while some questions may be universal, others will be specific to the company you’re interviewing with.

If you’re interviewing with United Airlines, you can expect to be asked questions about your experience with customer service, your ability to handle difficult situations, and your knowledge of the airline industry.

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of sample United Airlines interview questions and answers.

United Airlines Interview Process

The interview process at United Airlines is lengthy and time-consuming. It can take months to hear back after each step in the process, from the initial online assessment to the final face-to-face interview. The group activity is fun, but the one-on-one interviews are very corporate and impersonal. If you are successful, you will be offered a CJO on the spot. However, if you are not successful, you will be sent home.

1. What are your thoughts on the current state of the airline industry?

The interviewer may ask this question to gauge your opinion on the current state of the airline industry and how it’s changed over time. This can help them determine if you’re a good fit for United Airlines, as they want employees who are passionate about the industry and understand its history. In your answer, try to highlight what you like about the industry while also noting any challenges or concerns you have.

Example: “I think the airline industry is in a great place right now. It’s exciting to see airlines like United Airlines continue to innovate and find new ways to improve their services. I’m especially excited to be working at United Airlines because I’ve heard that we’re one of the most innovative airlines out there.”

2. How do you think automation will impact the aviation field in the future?

This question is a great way to assess your knowledge of the aviation industry and how it’s changing. It also allows you to show that you’re aware of current trends in the field.

Example: “I think automation will have a huge impact on the aviation industry, especially as we move forward into the future. I believe that eventually, all commercial flights will be fully automated, which will allow pilots to focus more on safety and customer service rather than navigating the plane. This would also reduce costs for airlines, allowing them to offer lower fares.”

3. Tell us about a time when you were able to find success during a difficult situation.

When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of a time when you faced adversity and overcame the challenge. This can help show your potential employer that you are capable of handling challenges in the workplace.

Example: “When I was working as an assistant manager at my previous job, we had a large number of employees call out sick on one day. We were short-staffed, but I knew that our customers needed us to provide them with excellent service. I called all of our managers together for a meeting and explained how important it was that we find solutions to overcome the difficult situation. Together, we came up with a plan to cover all of our bases and ensure that our customers received great service.”

4. In what ways can you contribute to United Airlines that other candidates cannot?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you are a unique candidate. You can answer this question by highlighting one or two of your most important skills and how they will benefit United Airlines.

Example: “I believe my ability to work well under pressure makes me an excellent choice for this position. I have experience working in high-stress environments, such as when I was a server at a busy restaurant. In this role, I would use my communication skills to keep customers calm while also ensuring that flight attendants had everything they needed to provide exceptional service.”

5. Do you have any experience working with different types of aircraft?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with a variety of aircraft, including smaller planes and larger commercial jets. Use your answer to highlight any previous experience or skills that will be helpful in this role.

Example: “I’ve worked as an aviation mechanic for five years now, so I’m familiar with all types of aircraft. However, my favorite type of plane is definitely the Boeing 737 because it’s one of the most common commercial airliners. This means I have plenty of experience working on these planes and know how to troubleshoot many issues that may arise.”

6. Are you comfortable sitting for long periods of time?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your ability to handle long work days. It’s important to be honest in your answer, but you can also explain how you plan to manage this aspect of the job.

Example: “I am comfortable sitting for long periods of time as I have done so throughout my career. However, I always make sure to take breaks and stretch during these times. I find that taking short breaks every hour or two helps me stay focused on my tasks and keeps me energized.”

7. What is your approach to problem-solving?

United Airlines is looking for candidates who can solve problems quickly and efficiently. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your critical thinking skills and how you use them to find solutions.

Example: “I approach problem-solving by first identifying the issue at hand. Then I gather as much information about the situation as possible before coming up with a solution. If there are multiple issues, I prioritize which ones need to be addressed first. Once I’ve determined what needs to be done, I develop a plan of action that includes specific steps on how to resolve the problem.”

8. Can you describe some situations where you had to deal with an upset customer and how did you resolve it?

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you took to resolve the situation and how you managed to keep the customer calm.

Example: “I had an upset customer once who was waiting for his flight at the airport. He called me because he wanted to know why his flight was delayed. I explained that there were thunderstorms in the area and we needed to wait until they passed before taking off. The customer seemed satisfied with my answer and thanked me for being so kind.”

9. Give me an example of a time when you worked closely with someone who was not doing their job correctly or effectively, how did you handle it?

This question is a great way to show your leadership skills and ability to work with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention how you helped the person improve their performance or what steps you took to ensure they were able to do their job correctly.

Example: “In my previous role as an assistant manager at a restaurant, I had an employee who was having trouble remembering orders. This caused customers to have to wait longer for their food and sometimes even receive incorrect orders. I spoke with them about the issue and offered to help them practice taking orders so that they could remember them more easily. After practicing several times, they felt much more confident in their abilities.”

10. What would you say is your greatest strength and weakness?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s important to be prepared with an answer that relates to the job you’re applying for. When answering this question, try to choose two strengths and one weakness that are relevant to the position.

Example: “My greatest strength is my ability to multitask. I am able to manage many projects at once while still meeting deadlines and maintaining quality work. My weakness is that sometimes I get overwhelmed by large amounts of work. In these situations, I find it helpful to break down tasks into smaller ones so they feel more manageable.”

11. How would you handle it if a passenger wanted to sit somewhere other than his/her assigned seat?

This question is a great way to test your customer service skills. It’s important that you show the interviewer how you would handle this situation in a calm and professional manner.

Example: “I would first ask the passenger if they are willing to move to their assigned seat, but if they refuse I would politely explain that it’s for safety reasons and offer them an alternative flight or arrange for another form of transportation. If they still refuse, I would call security to escort them off the plane.”

12. How would you ensure that each passenger felt safe while in flight?

United Airlines is committed to providing a safe and secure experience for all of its passengers. The hiring manager may ask this question to learn more about your safety protocols and procedures. In your answer, share how you would implement the airline’s safety policies and ensure that each passenger feels safe during their flight.

Example: “I am passionate about ensuring that every passenger has a safe and enjoyable flight. I believe that my primary responsibility as a flight attendant is to keep everyone on board our aircraft safe. To do so, I would make sure that I followed United Airlines’ safety protocols at all times. For example, I would always wear my seatbelt while in flight and check the cabin before takeoff and landing to ensure that no one was left behind.”

13. Why do you want to work at United Airlines?

This question is an opportunity to show your enthusiasm for the position and company. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific aspect of United Airlines that you admire or something about the company’s history that interests you.

Example: “I have always admired United Airlines’ commitment to customer service. I remember when my family was flying from Chicago to New York City on United Airlines several years ago, and we were delayed due to bad weather. The airline provided us with snacks and drinks while we waited in the airport, and they even upgraded our seats once we boarded the plane. It was such a pleasant experience, and I would love to work here so I could help other customers have similar experiences.”

14. We need our Flight Attendants to be able to lift heavy objects quickly and efficiently. Would you be able to perform this task?

This question is designed to assess your physical capabilities. It’s important that you are honest about your abilities, but also highlight any training or experience that may help you succeed in this role.

Example: “I have always been very physically fit and I enjoy working out regularly. While I am not a professional weight lifter, I do lift weights three times per week at the gym. I think my regular exercise routine will give me the strength and endurance I need to perform this task.”

15. Describe a time when you made an error. How did you handle these consequences?

This question is a great way to see how you respond to mistakes. It’s important for employers to know that you can learn from your errors and move forward with the job.

Example: “When I was working as an assistant manager at my previous job, I accidentally sent out an email to all of our customers about a sale we weren’t having. This resulted in many angry phone calls and emails from customers who were upset they didn’t get the sale price. I immediately called my boss and explained what happened. She told me to apologize to each customer and offer them 10% off their next purchase. We also offered free shipping on all orders until the end of the month.”

16. How would you handle it if a passenger wanted to sit somewhere other than his/her assigned seat?

This question is a great way to test your customer service skills. It’s important that you show the interviewer how you would handle this situation in a calm and professional manner.

Example: “I would first ask the passenger if they are willing to move to their assigned seat, but if they refuse I would politely explain that it’s for safety reasons and offer them an alternative flight or arrange for another form of transportation. If they still refuse, I would call security to escort them off the plane.”

17. Have you ever been in a crisis situation? How did you respond?

When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide an example of a time you faced a challenge and overcame it. This can show the interviewer that you have experience with handling difficult situations and how you respond to them.

Example: “When I was working as a flight attendant for Delta Airlines, we had a major snowstorm in Atlanta where our planes were grounded for several hours. We didn’t know when they would take off again, so I helped my coworkers calm passengers who were upset about the delay. Then, I worked with other employees to find snacks and drinks for the passengers while we waited for takeoff.”

18. When presented with a problem, how do you go about solving it?

This question is a great way to determine how you approach challenges and solve problems. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific time when you solved a problem or challenge in your previous role.

Example: “When presented with a problem, I first try to understand the issue as much as possible before coming up with a solution. In my last position, we had an issue where our flight attendants were not following company policy regarding meal service on flights. After speaking with some of the flight attendants, I learned that they didn’t know about the new policy. I then informed them of the change and provided training for those who needed it.”

19. What kind of experience do you have working in a team environment?

Teamwork is an essential skill for any employee at United Airlines. The company’s culture emphasizes collaboration and cooperation, so it’s important that you can work well with others. When answering this question, try to highlight your communication skills, problem-solving abilities and willingness to help others succeed.

Example: “I’ve worked in a team environment throughout my career, including when I was working toward my bachelor’s degree. In college, I was part of several clubs and organizations where we had to collaborate on projects and presentations. I also have experience working as part of a large team at my current job, where I am one of many customer service representatives.”

20. Do you consider yourself a leader? Why or why not?

Leadership skills are important for any position in the aviation industry. Employers ask this question to see if you have leadership qualities and how they can help them with their company. When answering, think about what makes you a leader. Explain your experience as a leader and how it helped you succeed.

Example: “I consider myself a leader because I am always looking out for others. In my last role, I noticed that some of my coworkers were having trouble with a certain task. Instead of waiting for someone else to offer help, I went over to them and offered assistance. This led to me training other employees on how to do the task correctly. My willingness to help others has made me a successful employee.”