Flight attendants

Their job is just as demanding as that of the flight crew. The airline whose uniform they wear is often judged by the way they perform.

They must therefore be polite, cheerful, patient, efficient and unflustered in the most difficult circumstances. Air travellers are often tired, bewildered and even frightened. Under these stresses they can become very demanding, sometimes even rude.

They are, in fact, a mixture of receptionist, clerk, nurse, waitress, barmaid, companion, nanny, guide and adviser. At the same time, they have an important part to play in the safe and efficient operation of the flight. They are trained to keep their heads in an emergency and help their passengers to evacuate the plane in the shortest possible time.

Airlines look for people with good health, good appearance and posture, and an easy, confident manner. A general education is required, and proficiency in languages is an obvious asset.

During training cabin crew students learn about catering, customs, immigration, foreign money exchange, safety and first-aid.

In charge of every cabin crew there is a chief steward or stewardess who is promoted to the post on both length of service and ability. They have to undergo further training before taking up this responsible post.

Unit 6. Organization. Employment

 72 Exercise 1.

Worldwide Airlines are currently seeking friendly, service-oriented people who take pride in their performance and appearance.

Applicants must be over 20 years of age and have at least two years' post high school education or work experience.

Physical requirements: able to lift, push and pull heavy articles as required.

Minimum height 1m 60, maximum height 1m 85.

Languages: able to read, write, speak and understand English. Other languages an advantage.

 72 Exercise 2.

1. What kind of work do you have?

2. What company are you working for?

3. What are you responsible for?

4. Do you have a part-time or a full-time job?

5. Do you have a temporary or a permanent job?

6. Do you need any special qualification for your present job?

7. What do you enjoy about your work?

8. What do you dislike about your work?

9. How do you think-do you need more education to make your work successful? If “yes” , then what kind of knowledge do you need?

10. Is your present job a good place to build up your career?

11. What do you think are your strengths and weaknesses?

11 What are your long-range goals?

12. What is your idea of a good team?

13. Is it easy to you to overcome difficulties?

14. What do you appreciate in other people?

15. How do you think, what other people appreciate in you?

16. What bad habit is it difficult for you to get rid of?

17. Where did you see the advert for this post?

 74 Exercise 3.

1. I’m working for as a powerplant manager at British Mediterranean Airways.

2. Originally I am from France but now I live in London.

3. I wanted to be in close contact with aircraft since I was a kid and wanted to go for the tough challenge in the industry.

4. I manage all aspects of engine maintenance, which ensure we keep our operation as safe and reliable as possible. My priority is providing day-to-day support as necessary to the engineers on the ground. I also keep a close eye on our engines when they are in the shop or being tested.

5. I did a five-year degree at Estaca, an engineering college in Paris. It specialises in the aerospace and automotive industries.

6. Language can be a barrier. I learn most technical words in French and it can be embarrassing for the first few months when the phone rings and you speak to someone with a heavy regional British accent and they are using English terminology.