American Airlines
opened its hiring window for flight attendants a few days ago. Those looking to apply should do so soon as the window will likely not be open for long.
Requirements
The requirements to become a flight attendant at American are not super restrictive, but that does not mean it is an easy job. Candidates must be 20 years of age, have a high school diploma, pass a drug test, pass a background check, and be a United States citizen. Additionally, a willingness to relocate is something American looks for as expects candidates to move to the city they will be based in immediately after training.
Photo: American Airlines
American focuses on a candidate’s ability to communicate, both with fellow crew members and with customers. If English is not the candidate’s first language, one should be able to read, write, make announcements, and give emergency orders in English. While a customer service background is not required, it certainly is beneficial for this role.
While not extensive, there are physical requirements for candidates. At interviews, the airline analyzes whether one can reach the overhead bins to open and close them and whether or not the candidate can open and close an aircraft door. The airline does say that candidates should be able to lift 50 pounds and stand for long periods. The ability to push/pull carts up and down the aisles is also important and can require about 50 pounds of force.
There are several rounds of interviews, and should one make it to the final round, they will be invited to American’s headquarters in Forth Worth. Some may walk away from the in-person process with a conditional job offer (CJO), meaning they will be invited to training and will receive a full offer once it is completed. Training last six and a half weeks and is unpaid.
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Though training is unpaid, the airline does provide housing onsite at its headquarters and provides most meals to trainees. Once training is completed, trainees will be assigned a base in one of the following cities:
- Boston
- Charlotte
- Washington DC (DCA)
- Dallas/Fort Worth
- New York (JFK/LGA)
- Los Angeles
- Miami
- Chicago
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
What are the benefits?
American provides traditional benefits like health, dental, prescription, and vision coverage. The airline also provides wellness programs and a 401(k) retirement program with employer contributions after one year. There is also an employee assistance program, pet insurance and access to travel discounts worldwide.
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The most coveted benefit in the airline industry is travel perks. With American, the airline provides travel benefits to the employee, a spouse/significant other/friend, and parents and children under 26. Employees also have access to what are commonly referred to as ‘buddy passes’, which are one-time tickets that can be given to friends and family that do not fall into any of the above categories.
Photo: American Airlines
At American, these buddy passes are different from other carriers in many ways. One of the differences between American and other airlines is that it allows buddy pass travelers to ride in premium cabins if unaccompanied by the employee.