Flight attendants have to follow a whole host of rules while they’re working in the skies.
And it’s hardly surprising that it’s pretty strict, but even what may seem like the smallest things to us can cause them to have their shifts cut short.
I mean, they’re the ones also having to enforce rules on us passengers like having the window open for take-off or have their own little unwritten rules like saying 'hello' as we board for a certain reason.
There’s always those ‘dings’ going off on a plane and the cabin crew are probably always keeping an eye for those seeking membership to the mile high club.
Advert
But the rules for flight attendants aren’t just limited to the skies, it’s also to do with their presence on land too. And to be honest, it sounds pretty exhausting.
Not too much fun
Well, perhaps this one isn’t so exhausting, as cabin crew workers apparently aren’t allowed to engage in any kind of adrenaline-fuelled activities during layovers.
This is obviously as they can’t be getting injured before re-boarding for work.
So, if you happen to see your smiley flight attendant doing a bungee jump the day after you landed in New Zealand, maybe keep your lips sealed.
Always on job
After landing, if the flight attendants are staying in the destination for a bit before flying back, they’re kind of still on the job.
Sure, they’re not working and can enjoy themselves. But they’ve got to be very careful about what they’re doing. The staff might be allowed the odd night out or fun plans, but they absolutely can’t be in their uniforms – especially when drinking alcohol.
It’s a bit of a given but if they’re caught doing that, some Middle Eastern airlines may give them the sack.
British Airways also previously reportedly banned its airline staff from posting from their layover hotels on social media for safety reasons.
Looking good
While airline bosses may deny the myth that flight attendants have to be ‘attractive’ to be hired, there’s still rules around appearance.
On some carriers, tattoos can’t be visible at all, while Virgin apparently allows them if they’re not on the face or neck.
Many airlines also ban piercings other than just one pair of earrings and others have make-up rules to follow. Jet2 among others are known for the red lipstick for women with Emirates having quite a specific look too.
And for those wearing skirts or dresses, spare tights or hosiery have to be carried as ladders are a total no no.
Coming with baggage
You might have noticed flight attendants always have such chic looking luggage and that’s because they may not necessarily have a choice.
It tends to be included in the uniform guidelines that the crew have to have plain cases, typically in black, grey or navy.
No tips, ta
It’s not exactly a part of usual procedure for us Brits anyway, but flight attendants can’t be accepting tips from passengers.
No matter how impressed you are with them asking if you want a plastic cup to go with your lukewarm can of Diet Coke, you can’t give them any cash thanks.
Standing on business
While you might just want to get onto the plane and into your seat with as little social interaction as possible, the cabin crew have to be standing on business.
According to the AAG Institute for Aviation Training, they have to be stood there at the entrances while we’re all boarding. No sitting down for flight attendants.
And as many will know, this time is when they’re secretly sussing us all out, saying hello and smiling sweetly as they get a gist of things.
Hold the paps
Similar to some attendants not being allowed to share photos from layover hotels, Delta previously put a bit of a selfie ban in place.
Last year, the airline told its staff they couldn’t post photos of themselves on social media in their uniform, particularly for those monetising their content.
Coat and watch check
A slightly rogue one to round us off here, with two essentials most staff must have onboard.
For Emirates staff, coats have to be packed if they’re flying to places where the temperature goes below 3C. If they’ve forgotten one, it’s said they’re straight off the shift.
And more widely, flight attendants on most airlines have to be wearing a watch. This is essential for keeping everyone co-ordinated. But there’s also emergency procedures that require them to be precisely synced up with the pilots.
Again, if they’re not wearing a watch, some airlines will send crew home.
Topics: Flight attendants, Travel, Community
Jess Battison