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Flight attendant interview questions are important to review. These questions will determine how you handle a variety of safety protocols and how you deal with difficult passengers.
Below are 15 common flight attendant interview questions with example answers to help you get prepared if you get a flight attendant interview opportunity. These questions may be a combination of common and specific flight attendant interview questions so it's important to be prepared for anything.
Key Takeaways:
As a flight attendant candidates, you should prepare by reviewing safety and emergency procedures, researching the airline, and coming up with examples of how you provided excellent customer service to passengers.
As an interviewers should prepare by creating a list of common and specific flight attendant interview questions to help evaluate the candidates customer service skills and creating role-play scenarios to get an understanding of how candidates react in different situations.
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Preparing for flight attendant interview questions when you land the interview is an important part of the interview process. Some will be the common questions that are standard in most interviews. However, others will be specific personality questions, flight attendant behavioral questions, or questions related to the airline.
Be ready to answer all possible questions. To help, read through the following example questions with possible answers to help you prepare:
Why do you want to be a flight attendant? You should be able to answer this with sincere passion. Give reasons that are genuine and relevant to the role. Make sure you answer with reasons that show an understanding of what the job entails.
Example Answer:
“Ever since I first flew on an airplane I have loved the experience. I love meeting new people and helping others stay comfortable. I think this job provides me a chance to focus my interests constructively.”
What do you know about the role of a flight attendant? Take time and do research ahead of time and be able to give them a summary of the daily responsibilities of a flight attendant. You do not want to be blindsided by this question, so it's best to know the most you can about the role.
Example Answer:
“I know that flight attendants provide quality service for the passengers and must also give safety instructions. A flight attendant must work with the rest of the staff to keep the flight safe and be ready to lead in the event of an emergency.”
What do you know about our airline? Again, do your research. Airlines will look for applicants who can best represent the company. If you are knowledgeable about the airline then it will show a certain effort that is much appreciated.
In this case, your answer should deal with the specifics of the company. For example, quote their mission statement and explain how it matches your values and goals.
Example Answer:
“I know that Delta serves 242 airports across 52 countries, making them a global leader in air travel. I also know that Delta’s mission is to make connections while making the world a better place. Those values align with my own personal mission of growth and development through relationships and travel.”
What do you imagine your biggest challenge will be? Your answer should show that you have considered all the responsibilities of the position. You could use the job description or else use past experiences to imagine what would be a difficult scenario.
A good place to start is to discuss a difficult customer in a difficult situation.
Example Answer:
“I would imagine maintaining a balance between safety and comfort is the biggest challenge for a flight attendant. In a situation where a passenger is panicking, it would be important to keep them and others calm while a solution can be found.”
Eventually, you will get some behavioral questions. These questions ask about your past to reveal your work style and personality. Be honest and highlight the growth your experiences provided.
Tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult customer. How did you resolve it? Look back on your past work experience and pick a moment where you successfully resolved a situation with a difficult customer.
Your answer should highlight your abilities to be calm and rational in a professional manner.
Example Answer:
“When I worked as a camp counselor I once had to deal with a parent who was upset that their child was not allowed to go on an upcoming field trip. I had to explain that their child had recently misbehaved in one of our games. By walking the parent through what happened and explaining the necessity of the consequences the parent came to agree with my decision.”
Tell me about a time in the past at work where you had to deal with an emergency. In this question, the interviewer wants to see how you act under pressure.
Though not common, emergencies can happen on airplanes and you will have limited help and resources. Show that you can remain calm and organized in your answer.
Example Answer:
“Once at my retail job a customer had a heart attack. I immediately called 911 and then proceeded to give CPR, which I have been certified for. Afterward, I gave a detailed report to the authorities and my manager.”
You will also be asked situational questions specific to the role of a flight attendant. They will want to see how you react. Don’t worry if you don’t know exactly what you would do.
Give yourself the best guess possible and keep in mind that you will be trained to handle all sorts of circumstances.
How would you handle a panicking passenger who demands the flight to land immediately? Unless the situation is truly serious, it would be unreasonable to land the plane for every nervous passenger.
Your answer should show that you understand this and take the necessary steps to assess the situation.
Example Answer:
“First I would try to find out why the passenger is panicking. I would ask them what is wrong and make it clear that I was listening to them. If their reason was serious I would contact the flight crew. However, if their reason could not justify an emergency landing, I would look for ways to make the passenger more comfortable.”
How would you deal with two passengers arguing about seating arrangements? People forced to sit in small spaces for a long period is a recipe for confrontation.
Your job as a flight attendant will be to de-escalate such tension. Let your answer reveal your diplomatic and conflict resolution skills.
Example Answer:
“If two passengers were arguing about their seats, I would check to see what their reservations were and then ask them both what the problem was. If it was an issue about them sitting next to each other and we had open seats, I might offer to move one of them. If not, I would ask them both what I could do to help clear their difficulties.”
How would you handle a medical emergency mid-flight? There may come a time when you have to deal with a medical emergency mid-flight. This question is designed to get an understanding of the procedure to follow when this situation happens.
Example Answer:
When there is a medical emergency mid-flight, I make sure I remain calm and composed to help project a sense of confidence and reassurance to both the affected passenger and the other passengers on board. I would immediately assess the situation and inquire the passenger about their condition.
I would make sure that I inform the flight crew of the medical emergency and provide them with all the information the passenger has given me about their condition. If the situation requires it, I would seek assistance from any medical professionals on board. I would then follow the established procedures provided by the airline and trained medical personnel.
What would you do if a child passenger was traveling alone? Unaccompanied minors can be a common occurrence, especially around the holidays. It's our responsibility as a flight attendant to make sure the child is safe and on the right path while on the plane.
Example Answer:
I would first confirm that the child is by themselves and check their travel documents to ensure that they are registered and authorized to travel alone. I would then make sure they feel comfortable by providing a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.
I want to make sure they have an understanding of what is happening, so I will provide a clear explanation of what the flight procedure is and ensure they understand what to expect during takeoff. Throughout the flight, I will check with with the child and make sure they are still comfortable and have everything they need.
Once the flight is over, I will coordinate with ground staff to ensure that there is a smooth transition for the child and ensure that they have the necessary accommodations for them to reach their connections to to get to their parent or guardian.
How do you feel about flying? Since you will be flying all the time when you are a flight attendant, this is a common question that interviewers ask. Be sure you are honest when answering this question.
Example Answer:
I love flying and consider it to be an exciting experience. I understand that for some individuals, there is anxiety or fear when it comes to flying which is why it's important for flight attendants to be reassuring and supportive to these passengers.
I believe having positive feelings about flying and finding flying can help reassure those who are scared.
What is your work style? This question is typically asked just to get a better understanding of who you are as a worker. The interviewer also wants to see if your work style fits in to how their company runs things.
Example Answer:
My work style can be described as organized, adaptable, and customer-focused. It's important to be well organized and prepared to ensure all the necessary tasks and responsibilities are completed before the flight. This includes adhering to safety protocols and following established procedures.
While working in the aviation industry, adaptability is important because flights can change or be cancelled at any time. That's why its so important to be flexible at any time.
How do you handle working with others? When you are a flight attendant, you will be working with people all the time. Your answer should highlight your collaboration, teamwork, and communication skills.
Example Answer:
I work well with others. I believe clear and open communication is important when it comes to working in a team setting. I will also treat all my coworkers with empathy and respect and promote an inclusive and supportive environment.
Tell me about a time where you had to give people directions. Explain your process. Passengers may ask you where to go in an airport from time to time because they assume you know where everything is. You most likely spend more time in airports than they do. Your answer should highlight your knowledge of airports and how you are able to use active listening to help these passengers.
Example Answer:
I start by listening to the passengers concerns and get an understanding of their desired destination. I provide clear and concise directions and try to use any landmarks, street names or visual cues to help the passengers follow the directions.
Tell me about a time you had difficulties working with other coworkers. What happened? How did you resolve it? This question is asked to get an understanding of your conflict-resolution skills. Be sure to highlight these skills and your steps deal with difficult coworker.
Example Answer:
When dealing with a difficult coworker, I will initiate a conversation with my coworker in a calm and respectful manner. I will express my concerns and how our working styles clash and how it is effecting out efficiency or teamwork. I will also make sure I am actively listening to their concerns as well.
During the discussion, I make sure we identify areas where our goals are aligned and recognize the importance of working together. It's important to me to foster a positive work relationship with my colleagues to help contribute to a supportive work environment.
Regardless of the question, you should always remember the skills and responsibilities of a flight attendant and incorporate them into your answer. Your goal is to reveal that you have the experience and knowledge to succeed in such a unique profession.
How would you handle a disruptive passenger who is causing a disturbance on the aircraft?
Can you explain the emergency procedures you would follow in the event of an evacuation?
How do you ensure passenger safety and security during a flight?
Describe the process you would follow when conducting pre-flight safety checks and inspections.
How would you handle a medical emergency onboard and coordinate with the rest of the crew and medical professionals on the ground?
What steps would you take to ensure effective communication and coordination with the flight deck crew during different phases of the flight?
How do you handle customer complaints or difficult situations that arise during a flight?
Explain the process you would follow when serving meals and beverages to passengers, taking into consideration dietary restrictions and special requests.
How do you handle cultural differences and provide excellent customer service to passengers from diverse backgrounds?
Can you describe the steps you would take in case of a sudden change in cabin pressure or other in-flight emergencies?
Here are some tips to follow as a candidate and an interviewer to help you prepare for your next flight attendant interview.
As a candidate:
Highlight your customer service skills. Highlight your ability to provide excellent customer service and how these skills allow you to provide the best experience for passengers. Be sure to emphasize how you use your communication and problem-solving skills, empathy, and patients to be successful as a flight attendant.
Review safety and emergency procedures. Having an understanding of these procedures is essential to the role of a flight attendant. To help you be prepared for questions regarding these procedures, review the concepts of aircraft evacuation, handling emergency equipment, and dealing with medical emergencies while on board.
Research the airline. Research the airline and familiarize yourself with their history, mission, values, routes, and their customer service approach. This research will help you be prepared to answer questions regarding the airline.
As an interviewer:
Create a list of interview questions. The interview questions that you create should be a combination of common and flight attendant behavioral interview questions. These questions will help you evaluate the candidates skills and experiences.
Evaluate the candidate's customer service skills. Customer service is important when you are a flight attendant. Be sure you are asking questions that will help you evaluate their communication skills and ability to handle difficult situations. You should also take note of their willingness to go above and beyond.
Conduct role play exercises. Create scenarios that flight attendants may encounter such as handling a customer complaint or handling a in-flight emergency. These exercises should help you evaluate their ability to think on their feet, their ability to remain calm under pressure, and their decision making skills.
Here are some additional tips to help you be prepared for your next flight attendant interview.
With these tips mind, you should feel good going into your interview. By doing everything possible beforehand, you set yourself up for a better chance at success.
Dress professionally. You will want to dress professionally in business attire. Flight attendants represent their airlines, so in the interview you want to show that you can put on a respectable appearance.
Arrive early. You should also schedule plenty of time before the interview. The airline industry demands punctuality so you must not give your interviewer any reason to doubt your time management.
Review interview questions. Review all the questions from this article. Ask a friend or family member to read the questions and give feedback on your answers. If that’s not possible, speak in front of a mirror and get comfortable with your responses.
Research the role. You should read up as much as possible about the role of a flight attendant and the history of the airline. The context will give you confidence because you will be aware of what you're applying to.
Look up testimonials from other flight attendants or see if anyone in your network knows someone who has been a flight attendant.