After a flight attendant is employed, airlines place the employee in their initial training program that lasts 6-8 weeks in their flight training center which is mandatory for certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Candidates complete training by going on practice flights and are then given the FAA Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency. In addition, you must pass the height and weight requirements and pass the medical and drug testing exams.
A flight attendant typically has pre-flight briefings with the pilots and conducts inspections of safety equipment before take-off. They educate passengers on the use of the airline’s safety equipment and emergency equipment and procedures. He or she checks all passengers to ensure all seat belts are fastened and carry-on baggage is secured in its proper place as required by Federal law. A flight attendant may also serve or sells snacks, beverages, or meals during the flight and will gather up trash afterward. They are responsible to care for passengers with special needs. If the aircraft should encounter any turbulence during the flight, they reassure passengers. They administer emergency medical care if necessary and if an emergency should arise, they provide direction to the passengers, including the evacuation procedure of the aircraft.
