CABIN CREW/FLIGHT ATTENDANT FAQs

As a cabin crew/flight attendant hopeful, I used to blog about application experiences, but because of my busy schedule, I rarely do it now; but I am very open on entertaining questions asked. I decided to compile the questions sent to me via e-mail (since Jan 2011). I based the answers from my previous experiences of from the experiences of successful cabin crews I know.

1. Current Cabin Crew Openings

(as of September 14, 2011)

I. AIR PHILIPPINES (CEBU)

Female

18-30 yrs old

min of 200 cms (arm reach)

at least high school graduate

weight and height should be proportional

physically fit

high standard of personal appearance and grooming

no tattoos visible while wearing airphil express uniform

clear complexion

BE IN:

Business Attire, Preferably sleeveless blouse with blazer and skirt with no stockings

Full Make Up

YOU MAY:

Send your resume to: 2pcebuhub@gmail.com

Indicate the position you're applying and the location in your email

Ex: Cabin Crew- Cebu

SOURCE: http://www.jobstreet.com.ph/jobs/2011/9/default/80/2844138.htm?fr=J

II. PHILIPPINE AIRLINES

REQUIREMENTS

Position Code: FA

Must be a Filipino citizen

18 - 27 years old

Females must be single; at least 5'2 1/2 in height (preferably 5'3' and above)

Males preferably single; at least 5'6' in height

With good visual impact and pleasing personality

With perfect vision (20/20) or with contact lenses but not beyond 20/40 grade vision

Weight must be proportionate to height

With clear complexion and good set of teeth

College level

Must have excellent command of English and Filipino

HOW TO APPLY

1. Download the PAL PERSONAL INFORMATION SHEET and fill in the information

2. Attach a recent photo

3. Scan the sheet and send the copy to: placement@pal.com.ph

Indicate the POSITION CODE and how you found out the vacany in the subject field

(access via: FB-Facebook, NEWS-Newspaper, RTV- Radio or Television, JB/CRE-Job Fair or Campus Recruitment,WEB-PAL's Corporate Website, REF/ADV-referred and/or advised by family and friends).

CLICKTHE LINK: 

http://www.philippineairlines.com/about_pal/careers/career_opportunities/apply_now.jsp

SOURCE:

  http://www.philippineairlines.com/about_pal/careers/career_opportunities/career_opportunities.jsp

2. Is it possible that they will accept you if you have a scar on your leg?

If it’s not a big scar and if you can conceal/hide it, no worries. If you really want the scar to disappear, you may consult a dermatologist and ask for an opinion whether to undergo a treatment or apply something on it.

3. I just applied for Cebu Pacific last month but i did not pass. I saw their new add at a newspaper that they are hiring (but this one is GRAND hiring) at a hotel. Do u think I could re-apply again if i just applied last month?

From what I know, Cebu Pacific has a 6-months waiting period from the date of an unsuccessful application. Grand Hiring is still the same as their usual screening (done at their office), only that it’s a one day hiring, unlike from the screening done at their office wherein you need to come back if you’re shortlisted.

4. I'm willing to apply to Saudi Airlines but the problem is I'm only 20 yrs old.

For Saudi Arabian Airlines, minimum age is 21 years old ,but if you’re turning 21 in months time you may want to ask the agency handling the application; but most likely, if you’re turning 21 in, say, 3 months time, you can apply.

5. I always wanted to work for JAL Airlines, Asiana and Emirates Airlines but the problem is there is no available position for flight attendant. Any advice for this?

Wait for their opening; or you can either apply for other airlines and gain flying experience or work for a customer service job.

6. I haven't tried applying for any airline yet, so I'm quite nervous! Any tips?

Try composing yourself, saying you’re not nervous even if you are (mind over matter) and prepare all the things you need. When you see an advertisement for the job, read the list of requirements carefully. Bring all the things needed and wear the appropriate attire. During an application, wear proper attire: in corporate blazer, over blouse and knee length skirt for women; slacks, corporate coat over long sleeves (preferably with tie) for men (unless specified that you should come in casual attire).

7. What other international airlines that have Open Days/Hiring here in the Philippines? I actually want to apply for Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines. But I don't know if that's relatively possible. Any ideas?

Qatar Airways frequently conduct an Open Day in the Philippines (usually open for both male and female).

For Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines, they do not hold an open day as of the moment.

8. PAL: Talaga bang strict sila sa scars ? or mas strict sila sa ngipin?...if ever my scars ,pwedi bang mag lagay ng covering make up for scars ? o mahahalata din nila iyon ?

Having attended an Impact Interview, they scrutinize the face, legs, arms, and teeth. Only PAL can determine whether they are more strict on scars rather than on an applicant’s teeth. Lastly, try concealing the scars.

9. I’m a flight attendant hopeful, just the same from the other who comments and reads your blogs about flight attendants. Do you have any advice in trying to achieve this dream? where to apply etc etc.

I always say that if you really want something, then, nothing should stop you from reaching it. Just try and try. One failure can never measure your worth and capability as a person. Sometimes, reaching for something comes along with the right timing. Try assessing yourself after a failed application and improve yourself. Regarding the question where to apply, you can visit workabroad.ph; read newspapers and visit the websites of different airline companies.

10. There's an OD for Qatar Airways coming up this August and I'm planning to attend. But I still have braces on; you think I should still give it a shot? If yes, what things/docs should I prepare? Clothing opinions? (I'm a guy).

I guess, Qatar Airways is strict when it comes to braces, as per the advertisements say that applicants with braces will not be entertained. But if you really wanted to try for the sake of trying and gaining experience, you may do so. You may just prepare your cv and photos (passport size and whole body picture).

Attire for men: slacks, corporate coat over long sleeves (preferably with tie)

11. Won't I need to have 2X2 and passport size photos (for Qatar Airways)?

2x2 photo for your resume/cv is optional. I don’t put my photo on my cv as it may just be returned to me. I only prepare one passport size photo and one whole body photo, size is 4r during an Open Day for Qatar Airways.

12. Hi Joanna! Can I ask you another question please?

Is there a specific kind of CV for Qatar or can i just buy the standard ones on the bookstore? Hope Im not a bother. Thanks!

Create your own CV, just like when you’re applying for other jobs, only that the objective (if you have that part on your resume) may be different. Personally, I put the ff details (in order):

NAME

Address

Contact No(s)

Email Address

________________________

Objective (optional)

Summary of Skills (optional)

Work Experience

Educational Background

Seminars/Trainings Attended

Character References

 --------------------------------------

NOTE that I’m just speaking from experience. I know I may not be the best person to answer everything you have in mind as I don’t have any successful application to date, but I’m very much willing to answer any question. I would love to help on my own way.

P.S. For any other questions, suggestions, comments and etc. please don’t hesitate to contact me. You have the ff options to reach me:

1. Send me an e-mail at: joanne_camet@yahoo.com

2. Leave a message on the chatbox

3. Comment on this post

There are no right or wrong questions, I would be glad to hear from you :) 

SAUDIA

HIRING: Flight Attendants for Saudi Arabian Airlines

I just saw the link from Workabroad.ph
http://www.workabroad.ph/report_job_listing.php?ajid=414705&utm_source=WA+Jobs&utm_medium=job+details&utm_campaign=job_details

101

After my recent heart breaking journey toward my dream of becoming a flight attendant, my QUEST continues! As I go on, I want to share some things to those who wish to earn their wings too. I hope my blog can be of big help even if I'm not yet hired by any airline. 

In my experience, the following are the common and basic requirements:

1. updated resume with photo

2. 2x2 photos

3. passport size photo

4. Whole body picture, usually 4r (either sky blue or white background)

If you will be applying for ME carriers, they require sky blue background.

5. Some agencies ask for school credentials like the photocopy of your TOR and Diploma

6. NBI clearance (for travel abroad - if you are aiming to be an international cabin crew)

7. Certificate of Employment

8. Photocopy of your passport

Training certificate(s) (if you have attended one or so), and certificate of employment (COE) can be part of the requirements but not really a MUST.

• For Qatar Airways Open Day: Recruiters will be asking for the ff: resume (with photo), 1 passport size photo and 1 4r size photo (whole body in Sky Blue background).
• EMIRATES:  You have to go personally to IPAMS during their pre-screening period.  You can click HERE to visit their site. They also handle Qatar Airways. Their site is reliable, they post everything you need to know.  During the pre-screening, they will require you to submit a resume, 1 passport size photo, 1 4r photo (in sky blue background) and the Emirates Online Ref Number.
•  Philippine Airlines: You have to download the application form at their website, fill it up,and scan your TOR then submit them on the email address found at their site.
• Cebu Pacific: You have to apply personally. Manila Screenings are held on their Training and Development Center near Domestic Airport. You have to bring a resume.

The following are some sites and names of the agency you can check for flight attendant/cabin crew vacancies:

WORK ABROAD

TRANSNATIONAL RESOURCES (They handle Asiana Airlines, JAL and Northwest Airlines) 

FIRST CHAMPION and SKILLS INTERNATIONAL  (for Saudia/Saudi Arabian Airlines)

MAYON INTERNATIONAL TRADING CORP (for Oman Air)

PERT (for Royal Brunei)

There! I hope I am able to share some tips on what to prepare and how to search for vacancies. I do wish, soon, I can give more helpful tips like the do's and dont's during the BIG DAY.

PREVIOUSLY (PART 2)

REACH FOR THE DREAM: MY AIRLINE APPLICATIONS

Tuesday, February 23. Went agency hopping with Cams. We agreed to meet by 11 am at U.N. Avenue, but I was late. We decided to take our lunch first before heading to the agencies. 

First Stop: First Champion (J.S. Contractor Building, Magallanes St. Intramuros)

The taxi driver did not find the location right away, but with the help of the pedicab drivers, we were able to locate it! Almost everyone knew where we were going. I guess, it's because of our attire, hehe.  

We arrived around 1:30. The lady ( I did not get her name) gave us the list of all the requirements we had to submit. All of the documents should be A4 in size and in two sets so we had to go downstairs to have our documents photocopied. Then, we were instructed to buy a white folder, we went to the 4th floor to get a piece of folder, the only available were the white ones, we went downstairs again, they were selling the same thing for 10.00 in contrast to the one we saw upstairs at 5.00. We decided to go back and settled for the folders sold at the 4th floor. After submitting the requirements, we were asked to pay 20.00 for the picture taken by the lady's webcam.  Cams was interviewed first by Ms. Jaja. During my turn, I was asked, why I wanted to be a flight attendant; If it's my first time to apply for an airline; If I have a background in swimming and first aid training; and so on. Those were some questions I could recall. She asked me to read one paragraph from a newspaper. Ms Jaja read that my father was a seaman, she asked me if I wanted to work for a ship, I said NO while shaking my head. I added, I wanted to work for a plane. She also noticed I was only 21. The age requirement would be at least 22 years old. I thought she would disqualify me right then and there because of my age but she saw that I'd be turning a year older on April. She informed me that SAUDIA representatives would be coming this June. So I still have ample time to prepare.

Last Stop: Mary Bachrach Building, (TRANSRESOURCES)

I noticed there were applicants who went upstairs before us so I thought the agency would be jampacked, but, luckily, it was not. We still managed to find a seat on the waiting area. A guy in blue shirt asked us to fill up a paper given to us by the guard. He submitted the small paper to Ms. Joyce. Three ladies were called first, then Cams, followed by another girl who submitted the application form to Ms Joyce. Afterwards, she called my name. I was wearing a smile while I approach her. She asked for my documents then goes the interview. These were some of her questions: Why I wanted to be a flight attendant; Why Asiana should hire me; If it's my first time to apply for an airline; Why it took me years before I applied for a positon; If I have visible scars on my arms and legs. Afterwards, Ms Joyce checked my legs, weight and height. I know that I was 167 cm, but with TRI, I was only 166, hehe, I think it would depend on the device they use. I was not asked to have a 217 cm reach test. Then, she handed me the application form. 

PAGE 1

PAGE 2: ESSAY :D

After submitting the application form and upon exiting TRI, there was another unfortunate incident, courtesy of the CULPRIT, my shoes! Thank goodness I didn't get any bruise! hahaha :)

QATAR OPEN DAY, FEBRUARY 27, SATURDAY

I woke up 5 am. Had a cup of nesvita and then prepared. I thought I'd be late. I dolled up myself as quickly as I could. Dressed up then left the house by 6:30.  I was lucky enough to see an FX going to Lawton so I don't have to ride a bus, til Vito Cruz then hail a cab from there going to Manila Diamond Hotel. After passing Quirino, I kept my eye on every building. I couldn't see the hotel. Then, I heard the lady beside me, Diamond Hotel lang. Whew! Thank goodness! :) At the entrance, the lady guard told me that the ballroom hall was still closed so I waited for a few minutes with Rose, who was an applicant too. While standing, another applicant asked if we already registered, she also told us that some were already inside, so we followed her directions. I saw that the first two rows on both sides were already occupied but not filled. As a NO VIRGIN for Qatar OD, I told Rose we should sit on the second row so we could finish early. I saw Chinee seating on the first row. Had some chats before the recruiters arrived.  

 

I didn't have any idea that the recruiters were already inside not until I saw Michelle, the Filipina-Canadian recruiter whom I met during the very first Qatar OD I attended. If I remembered it right, she was the first one whom I submitted my CV with. The other recruiter, I didn't get her name looked like half Filipina half Chinese! She rarely smiles. She was on the November OD. The other recruiter was Caucasian, I just don't know if she's American, British or Indian. She was gorgeus!  I submitted my CV to her. While approaching her, I smiled and greeted her Good Morning! She asked if it's my first time to attend the OD, I told her with all honesty that it was my Third Time to attend the OD. Then she asked me what I am doing now. I said, I maintain a blog and write.  That was the short encounter with her. I met another lady, Katz! She was so nice. She even offered me a ride. Like me, she's not a first timer for QR OD. She didn't get the call on her previous attempt, I find her pretty though. 

Before riding a bus back to Cavite, I went to Baclaran Church. I battled the scorching sun. Prayed. Lit some candles.

I didn't go home straight, instead, I went to National Bookstore first and bought these stuff:

I fell asleep til 4:45. Went to groceries with mom and the day ended that way. I didn't get the call for the THIRD TIME. I'm not ashamed to admit it! Number 3 had always been lucky to me, but not this time. I felt sad and frustrated. I am HUMAN. I have the right to be sad when I had to be. Laugh when things go my way. Maybe, I was not meant for QR.,it maybe a NOW or NEVER. Only God knows, but I'm sure that a better and bigger opportunity would come SOON. I just have to TRUST HIM. 

P.S. 

Last Tuesday, on my way to UN Avenue, I saw an ad saying: GOD MOVES IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS, NEVER GIVE UP.