Working as cabin crew with Middle East Airlines is a unique opportunity to experience the best of Lebanese hospitality while building a fulfilling career. If you are considering a role with MEA, this guide will provide an in-depth look at what you can expect – from responsibilities and requirements to benefits and growth opportunities.
Overview of Middle East Airlines
Middle East Airlines (MEA), based in Beirut, Lebanon, is the country’s national carrier. Founded in 1945, MEA operates flights to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
What are the responsibilities of cabin crew at Middle East Airlines?
Here’s a breakdown of what MEA cabin crew members do:
- Passenger safety: Conduct safety checks before takeoff, demonstrate safety procedures, and ensure all safety regulations are followed.
- Customer service: Assist passengers with seating, provide information during flights, and respond to passenger needs with professionalism and empathy.
- Emergency management: Handle in-flight emergencies calmly, from medical situations to aircraft safety concerns.
- Onboard service: Serve meals, beverages, and duty-free items, ensuring the comfort of all passengers.
- Communication: Coordinate with the flight deck crew, update passengers on flight details, and relay any important information.
- Teamwork: Work effectively with fellow crew members to ensure smooth and efficient operations throughout the flight.
Cabin Crew requirements at Middle East Airlines
To join the cabin crew team at Middle East Airlines, candidates must meet specific qualifications and criteria. Here are the primary requirements:
- Nationality: Applicants must be Lebanese nationals.
- Gender: MEA currently only accepts female candidates for cabin crew positions.
- Age requirement: Applicants must be between 18 and 26 years old.
- Educational level: Minimum educational level is Lebanese Bacc II or its equivalent.
- Language skills: Fluency in Arabic, English, and French is required.
- Height requirement: Minimum height of 160 cm (5’2″).
- Physical appearance: A clear complexion, no visible tattoos or piercings, and a generally smart appearance are necessary.
- Physical fitness: Must be physically fit, able to swim, and have weight proportional to height (Body Mass Index considered).
- Personality: Applicants must have a pleasing personality, friendly attitude, and excellent interpersonal communication skills.
Recruitment process at Middle East Airlines
The recruitment process at MEA is thorough, ensuring that only the most capable candidates join the cabin crew. Here is what to expect:
- Online application: The journey starts with an online application where candidates submit their CV and cover letter. Candidates can apply online through the official Middle East Airlines careers page at https://www.mea.com.lb/careers/vacancies.
- Initial screening: Applications are reviewed, and selected candidates are invited for an interview.
- Assessment day: Shortlisted candidates attend an assessment day, which includes group exercises, presentations, and problem-solving activities to evaluate communication and teamwork skills.
- Interviews: Successful candidates from the assessment day proceed to a one-on-one interview. Here, recruiters assess motivation, customer service experience, and the ability to handle challenging situations.
- Medical examination: After passing the interviews, candidates undergo a medical examination to confirm they meet the health standards required for the role.
- Offer: Once all stages are completed, successful candidates receive an offer to join the MEA cabin crew training program.
Cabin Crew training at Middle East Airlines
Training is a vital part of becoming a cabin crew member at Middle East Airlines. The program is intensive, covering all aspects of safety, service, and emergency response. Here’s what you can expect during the training:
- Safety procedures: Trainees learn how to operate safety equipment, conduct safety demonstrations, and handle emergency evacuations.
- First aid: Cabin crew are trained to handle medical emergencies, including CPR and dealing with common in-flight health issues.
- Customer service: Emphasis is placed on providing exceptional customer service, from addressing passenger complaints to making announcements.
- In-flight service: Training also includes practical aspects such as meal service, handling special requests, and managing duty-free sales.
- Team building: Trainees work closely with each other to develop teamwork skills, which are crucial for successful flight operations.
Salary and benefits of cabin crew at Middle East Airlines
Working as cabin crew for MEA comes with competitive compensation and several benefits:
- Salary: The base salary for new cabin crew members starts at approximately 28,200,200 LBP per month, with potential increases based on seniority and experience.
- Flight allowances: Additional allowances are provided based on flying hours.
- Travel benefits: Discounted tickets for cabin crew and their families.
- Health benefits: Comprehensive health insurance after six months of employment.
- Contract: Successful candidates start with a two-year contract and undergo a two-month training program before beginning work.
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you considered joining Middle East Airlines as cabin crew? Share your questions or experiences in the comments below. Don’t forget to join our cabin crew forum where you can connect with experienced cabin crew members, ask questions, and learn more about the cabin crew lifestyle. If you’re ready to start your journey, head to our cabin crew jobs page and apply today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic requirements to become a cabin crew member at Middle East Airlines?
You must be a Lebanese national, female, between 18 and 26 years old. You need a high school diploma (Lebanese Bacc II or equivalent), fluency in Arabic, English, and French, and a minimum height of 160 cm. You must also be physically fit, have a clear complexion, and a pleasant personality.
What are the main responsibilities of MEA cabin crew?
Your main duties include ensuring passenger safety, providing excellent customer service, handling emergencies, serving meals and drinks, and maintaining a clean, well-organised cabin. You also work closely with other crew members and pilots to ensure a smooth flight.
How do I apply to be a cabin crew member at MEA?
Apply online through the official MEA careers page. If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to an assessment day, followed by interviews and a medical examination. Successful candidates will then complete a training program.
What training does MEA provide for cabin crew members?
MEA offers a comprehensive training program that covers safety procedures, first aid, customer service, and in-flight service. You’ll also receive team-building training to help you work effectively with other crew members.
What is the salary for cabin crew at Middle East Airlines?
New cabin crew members start with a salary of around 28,200,200 LBP per month, with additional allowances for flight hours. Other benefits include discounted tickets, health insurance, and a two-year contract with potential for salary increases.