Aircraft Service Attendants: Roles, Education, and Progression
Aircraft service attendants are professionals who ensure the safety and comfort of flight passengers by providing vital ground services to aircraft. The occupation covers a broad range of roles that include cleaning and servicing aircraft, operating equipment, and overseeing the safety of the ground handling team.
Roles of Aircraft Service Attendants
Some examples of the job roles of aircraft service attendants include:
- Cleaning and preparing the cabin and cockpit of the aircraft, which includes sanitizing, restocking, and checking necessary amenities such as food, drinks, and magazines.
- De-icing the aircraft during winter or extreme cold conditions.
- Refueling the aircraft with the required fuel type and quantity, following safety and environmental regulations
- Directing aircraft safely in and around the terminal area and tarmac.
- Providing assistance to passengers with boarding, disembarking, luggage handling, and any other services required before or during the flight.
Education and Training
As there is no specific degree or qualification for aircraft service attendants, the standard requirement for entry is a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, one may be required to undergo a background check based on the regulations in their region or state.
On the job training is vital for aircraft service attendants. During this training, new employees are taught the necessary skills required to perform their duties. Training covers a wide range of areas, including safety procedures, basic customer service, refueling techniques, and operating various ground service equipment such as baggage loaders, ground power units, and hydraulic lifts. Ongoing training and assessment are necessary to ensure that workers stay up-to-date with industry procedures and regulations.
Progression in the Field
Aircraft service attendants can progress within their field by gaining more experience and performance recognition through positive evaluations and feedback from their supervisors.
With experience and training, an aircraft service attendant may advance to leadership roles such as supervisor or team lead position. In such positions, they will oversee other ground personnel and serve as the main point of contact for the airline. They may also perform additional administrative duties, such as tracking expenses, processing aircraft-related reports, and preparing work schedules for their team members.
Getting into the Field
For anyone interested in pursuing a career as an aircraft service attendant, entry-level positions are available through various aviation companies or airlines. One can search job openings on the websites of different airlines and aviation companies. Job seekers can also contact local airports or seek information from labor centers regarding open positions to apply for. Attend industry conferences and job fairs to meet other professionals in the field to receive valuable contacts and networking opportunities.
Aircraft service attendants are responsible for fueling and servicing aircraft before and after flights. They also conduct inspections and maintain safety standards. The job level for aircraft service attendants is typically at level 03, with the national average salary being $41,849.60. However, the salary data may vary based on several factors such as experience, location, and company.
The effects of unions on this job can result in higher wages, improved benefits, and better working conditions. Unionized aircraft service attendants typically have higher salaries than their non-unionized counterparts. According to the US National Average data, non-unionized aircraft service attendants earn an average salary of $37,648.00, while full-time unionized aircraft service attendants at level 03 earn an average salary of $42,224.00.
The geographic location of the job can also affect the salary of aircraft service attendants. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following two geographies have the highest and lowest average annual wage for aircraft service attendants:
Highest:
– San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California: $57,130
– Anchorage, Alaska: $52,320
Lowest:
– Lafayette-West Lafayette, Indiana: $26,990
– Punta Gorda, Florida: $25,320
Overall, aircraft service attendants play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air transportation. Unionization can have a positive impact on their wages and working conditions, while geographic location can also influence their salary.
| Geographic Location | Average Annual Wage |
|——————————|———————|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, California | $57,130 |
| Anchorage, Alaska | $52,320 |
| US National Average | $41,849.60 |
| US National Average (Non-union) | $37,648.00 |
| Lafayette-West Lafayette, Indiana | $26,990 |
| Punta Gorda, Florida | $25,320 |
