Embarking on Your Journey: Understanding United Flight Attendant Requirements
If you’re passionate about travel, customer service, and working in a dynamic environment, a career as a United Airlines flight attendant could be your ticket to an exciting future. As one of the world’s largest airlines, United Airlines is renowned for its commitment to exceptional service and quality. But what does it take to join their esteemed flight attendant team? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the United flight attendant requirements, providing a roadmap to your dream job in the skies. Whether you’re a foreigner curious about working for United Airlines, or you’re wondering about the potential salary, we’ve got you covered. Let’s embark on this journey together.
Educational Qualifications
The first step towards becoming a United Airlines flight attendant is meeting the educational requirements:
- A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent is required.
- Additional qualifications in hospitality, tourism, or languages can give you an edge in the competitive selection process.
Physical Requirements
Being a flight attendant is physically demanding. Here are the physical requirements for the role:
- Applicants must have a height between 5’0″ and 6’3″ without shoes.
- Good vision is essential, and while glasses and contact lenses are allowed, your vision should be correctable to 20/40.
- You should be in good overall health, and able to perform physical activities such as pushing, pulling, lifting, and bending during the flight.
Language Skills
As an international airline, United Airlines places a high value on language skills:
- Fluency in English is a must for all flight attendants.
- Knowledge of additional languages is a significant advantage, as it allows you to communicate with a broader range of passengers.
Personal Qualities and Soft Skills
Beyond the formal requirements, there are several personal qualities that United Airlines looks for in its flight attendants:
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Ability to work in a team and maintain positive, professional relationships with colleagues.
- Flexibility and adaptability to a changing schedule.
- Ability to handle stressful situations calmly and professionally.
Training and Certification
Once you meet the basic requirements, the next step is the application process:
- Fill out an online application form which includes your resume details
- If your application is shortlisted, you will have a face-to-face or video interview
- If you impress them in the interview, you will be invited for a rigorous training program that lasts for 6.5 weeks in Houston, TX. United provides a $140/week stipend, along with accommodations, and two meals provided per day during the training period. Successful training graduates will receive a $1,000 bonus
- Upon successful completion of this training, you’ll receive your flight attendant certification
Salary and Benefits
United Airlines flight attendants usually earn $23-$28 per hour, depending on their tenure. The airline provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes company-funded medical and dental insurance, a pension plan, paid vacations, and more. Flight attendants are compensated for each hour they are away from their home base, and United Airlines provides hotels for layovers.
Additional Requirements
United Airlines also has some additional requirements for their flight attendants:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- The capacity to work legally in the United States.
- A valid passport is required.
- Capability to fly domestic as well as international routes.
- Flights are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Possibility of passing a background check and drug test.
- Meet the job’s physical requirements (reach overhead bins, stand for long periods of time, etc.)
- A tidy, well-groomed appearance is required for the actual professional presentation.
- Although these are the prerequisites to be considered, United prefers applicants who meet the following extra standards:
- A college diploma
- 2 years of customer service experience or more
- A second language fluency (bilingual)
- Flight attendant trainees must successfully demonstrate an evacuation drill in the water (pool) during training.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Must be willing to complete pre-employment DOT drug screen, comprehensive background checks, fingerprinting, and vision/hearing tests.
- Must be able to pass DOT/FAA pre-employment and randomized drug screens. Medical marijuana is prohibited due to the safety-sensitive nature of the Flight Attendant position.
- Must be able to pass a 10-year background check, including criminal background history. Your background must not prohibit travel to or from anywhere United flies. For example, Canada has a strict inadmissible classification for DWI/DUI charges including misdemeanors. If you have been on probation or convicted of a DWI/DUI within the last 10 years, the Canadian government will not allow you to travel to and from Canada unless you have already received a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) from the Canadian government which will allow you to continue your work duties for a temporary period of time.
Conclusion
Embarking on a career as a United Airlines flight attendant is an exciting journey, filled with opportunities to travel, meet new people, and make a difference in the customer experience. It’s a role that demands specific qualifications and skills, but the rewards are immense. If you align with these United Airlines flight attendant requirements, you’re already on the runway towards a thrilling career in the skies. Remember, the sky isn’t the limit; it’s just the beginning.
Disclaimer: The requirements mentioned in this article are subject to change and may vary. Always refer to the official United Airlines website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it difficult to become a United Airlines flight attendant?
Yes, it can be challenging due to the competitive nature of the role and the rigorous training process. However, with the right qualifications, skills, and dedication, it’s certainly achievable.
What is the height requirement for United Airlines flight attendants?
The height requirement for United Airlines flight attendants is between 5’0″ and 6’3″ without shoes.
What does United Airlines look for in a flight attendant?
United Airlines looks for individuals with excellent customer service skills, the ability to work in a team, flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to handle stressful situations calmly and professionally.
What are the entry requirements for a flight attendant?
The entry requirements for a flight attendant typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, good physical health, and fluency in English. Additional language skills and experience in customer service can be advantageous.
Is 42 too old to become a flight attendant?
No, 42 is not too old to become a flight attendant. Many airlines, including United Airlines, value maturity and life experience.
Does United Airlines pay for flight attendant training?
Typically, airlines like United Airlines do cover the cost of flight attendant training once you are hired.
How many hours do United Airlines flight attendants work?
The number of hours United Airlines flight attendants work can vary, but typically, they can expect to work between 75 to 100 hours a month in the air, and about 50 hours a month on the ground preparing flights and doing other tasks.
Are there weight requirements for flight attendants?
Most airlines, including United Airlines, do not have specific weight requirements. However, flight attendants must maintain a healthy weight, be physically fit, and be able to perform all the physical tasks the job requires.
At what age do flight attendants retire?
The retirement age for flight attendants can vary based on the airline and country, but it’s typically around the age of 65. However, many flight attendants choose to continue working past this age if they are physically able to do so.
