How to Become an Air Hostess?

16 minute read
How to Become an Air Hostess

To become an air hostess or a cabin crew member, individuals must complete a specialised course focusing on in-flight services, safety procedures, and customer care. These courses are offered at various levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs. An air hostess plays a vital role in ensuring the comfort and safety of passengers aboard commercial, business, or military flights. They are responsible for in-flight hospitality, customer care, and emergency handling. If you are exploring an aviation career, understanding how to become an air hostess is the first step towards pursuing this exciting opportunity.

ProfessionAir Hostess
Educational Qualifications10+2 with a degree in Hospitality or Cabin Crew Training
Entrance ExamMerit-based admission/AIAEE, NCHMCT JEE, AEEE (for some universities)
SkillsCommunication skills, Detail-oriented, Problem-solving, Professionalism
Age Limit18-26 years
Minimum Height5′ to 5’2”
Salary₹5 Lakhs per annum
Air Hostess Institutes in IndiaFrankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training, Pacific Airways, Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (IGIA), Universal Aviation Academy

How to Become an Air Hostess after the 12th?

Embarking on a career as an air hostess is an exciting journey that combines travel, customer service, and the aviation industry. For those who have completed Class 12th, this path offers numerous opportunities to thrive in a dynamic environment. To become an air hostess, follow these steps:

  • Understand the Role and Requirements: Know the role and responsibilities of an air hostess. The job involves ensuring passenger safety, delivering top-notch customer service, and handling in-flight emergencies. AIrine typically looks for candidates who are 18 to 27 years old with fluent English and preferably other languages. Candidates must have been well-groomed and physically fit. 
  • Meet Educational Requirement: To become an air hostess after 12th, you must complete your 10+2 from a well-reputed board. Some airlines may prefer the candidate with a minimum graduate degree, but it is not mandatory for entry-level cabin crew roles.
  • Pursue Additional Education: Pursue a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, tourism, or aviation management to boost your employability, also it can also improve your knowledge and open a door to an international airline. 
  • Prepare for Job: Many airlines conduct recruitment drives that include a written test or aptitude followed by a group discussion and a personal interview. Prepare for airline entrance exams by studying relevant material and practising sample papers.
  • Apply to Multiple Airlines: Apply to multiple airlines and attend interviews, showcasing your communication skills and passion for the role. If selected, complete the airline’s training and pass the required medical examination to ensure fitness for the job.

With the right air hostess qualifications for girls and preparation, you’ll be ready to launch your career as an air hostess.

How to Become an Air Hostess After 10th

If you aspire to become an air hostess after completing your 10th grade, it’s essential to understand the various educational and training pathways available to you. To become an air hostess after 10th grade, follow these steps:

  • Complete your 10+2 Education:  Once you complete your 10th, you must enrol in a senior secondary 10+2 programme from a recognised board in any stream.
  • Start Preparation: Start preparing for entrance tests like AIAEE, NCHMCT JEE, AEEE, etc., after graduating from high school while still enrolled in senior secondary studies (10+2) to gain admission to a prestigious aviation institution.
  • Join an Air Hostess Diploma Course After 12th: After passing the Class 12th Board examinations, students can continue their education with a Diploma in Aviation Courses. Stated that airline companies prefer to hire students with a diploma or undergraduate degree in hospitality or aviation for diverse positions as air hostesses.

Check Out: Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Colleges

Eligibility Criteria to Become an Air Hostess

You need to fulfil a standard eligibility criterion to become an Air Hostess. Here are the major physical requirements that airlines require:

  • The minimum age to become an air hostess is 18 or 21 years.
  • The minimum height of the candidate should be 5’ – 5’2”.
  • Your body weight should be in proportion to your height.
  • There should not be any visible marks, tattoos, or body piercings.
  • The candidate should be able to carry beverage or meal carts, lift emergency window exits, and open emergency doors.
  • No mental illness record.
  • A vision test is mandatory to check the candidate’s far and near vision, which is at least 20/40, with glasses or contact lenses.
  • A hearing test with no loss on audiometry in a better ear is more significant than 40 dB when losses at 500, 100, or 2000 Hz are averaged.
  • The candidate must pass the DOT fingerprinting and drug screening test.
  • Basic computer skills and math competency can be highly beneficial.
  • Completing the formal training program allows you to gain a certification and license from an authorised body regulating all aspects of civil aviation in a particular country, like the FAA (The Federal Aviation Administration) in the USA.

Air Hostess Entrance Exams

Many airlines and institutes in India conduct entrance exams to select candidates for air hostess training programs. To become an air hostess, these exams test a candidate’s aptitude, logical reasoning, English language proficiency, and general knowledge. Some of the prominent entrance exams for the aviation sector include:

  • Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA) Entrance Exam
  • Air Hostess Academy (AHA) Entrance Exam
  • Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training Entrance Exam
  • Jet Airways Training Academy Entrance Exam

To perform well, candidates should study the required syllabus, practice with sample papers, and improve their English communication skills. Preparing systematically increases the chances of passing these competitive exams and securing a spot in top training institutes.

Regarding entrance tests, you might be required to pass a written test and an interview round to pursue air hostess training at these academies and institutes in India.

Air Hostess Courses in India

The following are some of the air hostess courses you may take.

Certificate CourseDiploma CourseDegree CoursesPost Graduate Courses
International Air CargoDiploma in Airlines ManagementBachelor of Science (Air Hostess Training)PG Diploma in Airport Ground Services
Air Hostess ManagementDiploma in Air Hostess TrainingBachelor of Hospitality and Travel ManagementPG Diploma in Aviation and Hospitality Services
Airport Ground ManagementDiploma in Air Cargo Practices and DocumentationBachelor of Travel and Tourism ManagementMBA (Aviation)
Air Hostess TrainingDiploma in Aviation and Hospitality ManagementBachelor of Science (Air hostess training)PG Diploma in Hospitality, Aviation, Travel, and Customer Service
Air Ticketing and TourismDiploma in Airlines and Travel ManagementBachelor of Science (Aviation)

What Does an Air Hostess Do?

  • An Air Hostess is responsible for several tasks throughout the takeoff and landing process. Below is a list of some of the main responsibilities of an Air Hostess.
  • An air hostess’s primary responsibility is ensuring everyone on board is safe, secure, and comfortable. Before takeoff, Air Hostesses go over numerous safety procedures.
  • The air hostesses must inform the passengers about the tentative descent and deplaning procedure. Air hostesses keep the passengers seated throughout takeoff and landing.
  • Along with other pre-flight duties, Air Hostesses are responsible for inspecting and verifying the functionality of all safety equipment. During a deplaning procedure, Air Hostesses are in charge of a comprehensive check-up so that passengers do not leave behind any expensive belongings.

Types of Air Hostesses

Although it might be demanding, a career as an air hostess gives many opportunities to travel. After earning your bachelor’s degree, professional certification can help you launch your career as an Air Hostess. The following list includes some of the main categories for an Air Hostess.

  • Flight Attendants: They demonstrate the use of safety and emergency procedures while flying and look out for the safety of the passengers.
  • During short-haul and long-haul flights, cabin staff are in charge of providing comfort, safety, and support to passengers.
  • Ground Staff: Ground Staff are responsible for attending to passengers’ needs before and during flights. They are also responsible for answering questions from passengers, providing information on the aircraft, and making sure they have no problems while in flight.
  • A sky marshal is an expert with secret legal permission or a counter-terrorism background who flies aboard commercial jets to prevent hijackings.

Note: Airlines typically hire air hostesses based on their skills and aptitude. A written test and a series of interviews are typically used in the selection process.

Skills Required to Become an Air Hostess

Customer service is an integral part of success as an Air Hostess and requires a specific set of skills to carry out a variety of tasks under severe pressure. The idea is about knowing how to become an Air Hostess and grasping the skills needed to fit into the job requirements.

Here is a list of skills, qualifications, and capabilities required to become an Air Hostess.

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Detail-oriented and organised to work in a team.
  • Empathetic behaviour toward the elderly, children, and sick passengers.
  • Calm and composed demeanour during stressful situations and emergencies like air turbulence, mechanical problems, etc, to ensure that passengers follow safety procedures.
  • Problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work with culturally diverse groups.
  • Professionalism
  • Good physical conditions to handle erratic schedules like longer shifts, hefty tasks, etc.
  • Quick thinking and good memory are required for working in a fast-paced and tight environment.

Also Read: Best Courses After 12th PCM

Air Hostess Recruitment Process

Here is a detailed step-by-step procedure and air hostess qualifications for girls to follow to become an air hostess:

  • Pursue Air Hostess training at a recognised cabin crew training institute or academy.
  • Research the airline you want to work with and look up their destinations.
  • Read the career page of the airline’s website to understand more about the recruitment process and eligibility requirements.
  • Ensure that your passport is updated at least 12 months before expiry.
  • Be clear that you don’t have visa restrictions in any country.
  • An added advantage is having at least 2 years of experience in a frontline or customer-facing role.
  • You should know where to apply and keep more available options.
  • If you are shortlisted, you must travel to the assigned venue for a personal interview and Group Discussion.
  • Moreover, there will be a straightforward drug test and background check.
  • Qualifying for the interview, you will get your entry ticket into your chosen training institute.
Air Hostess Recruitment Process
Source – Student Go

How to Become an Air Hostess Abroad?

One of the most sought-after occupations is taking an aviation course overseas to become an air hostess. You won’t have to worry about your future if you work as an Air Hostess. The program’s difficulty level is identical to that of India. To be eligible to study abroad and become an Air Hostess, one must pass one of the language proficiency examinations, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, before applying to any overseas institutions.

Key Roles and Responsibilities of an Air Hostess

Below is a list of several tasks assigned to Air Hostesses during a flight:

  • Ensure the Comfort and Safety of Passengers: They oversee passenger requests, serve food and beverages, and comfort sick passengers. Moreover, they have to review emergency and safety procedures before take-off to ensure safety on the flight.
  • Assist Passengers in Deplaning: A flight attendant must ensure that passengers are safely in their seats as the plane descends and that all loose objects or garbage have been removed and secured. Once the plane lands, they help passengers with their luggage and direct them to exit the plane.
  • Conduct Pre– and Post-Flight Checks: Pre-flight checks involve testing safety equipment to ensure that it is in working condition, and post-flight checks ensure that passenger items have been removed and seats and trays are correctly placed. Other than this, they might also do some light cleaning on the plane’s interior.

Air Hostess Training Courses

Air Hostess training courses are specialised programs designed to equip aspiring individuals with the skills required to excel in the aviation industry. These courses focus on customer service, in-flight safety procedures, grooming, communication skills, and emergency management. Training also includes practical modules to familiarise candidates with cabin operations, hospitality standards, and first-aid protocols.
Offered at certificate, diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels, these courses open doors to exciting careers as flight attendants, ground staff, or inflight service coordinators. Below, we have given some Air Hostess training courses offered in India and abroad. Please have a look:

Diplomas in Air Hostess Training (1 year)

  • Diploma in Air Hostess Training
  • Diploma in Cabin Crew or Flight Attendant Training
  • Diploma in Aviation and Hospitality Management
  • Diploma in Hospitality and Travel Management
  • PGDM in Aviation and Hospitality Services
  • PGDM in Airport Ground Services
  • PGDM in Aviation, Hospitality, Travel & Customer Service

Certificate Courses (3 to 6 to 12 months)

  • Air Hostess Management
  • Air Hostess Training
  • Cabin Crew or Flight Attendant
  • Airlines Hospitality
  • Aviation Management and Hospitality
  • Flight Purser (certification)
  • Aviation Customer Service (certification)
  • Airlines Hospitality (certification)
  • Hospitality and Air Travel Management (certification)
  • Airline Passenger Service (certification)

Degree Programs in Aviation (2-3 years)

  • BBA in Aviation
  • B.Sc. in Air Hostess Training
  • Bachelor of Travel and Tourism Management
  • Bachelor of Hospitality and Travel Management
  • Degree in International Airline and Travel Management
  • BBA in Airport Management
  • MBA in Aviation
  • BSc Aviation
  • MBA in Aviation Management

Average Salary of an Air Hostess in India

As an air hostess, your salary depends on your airline. On average, air hostesses earn around 25,000 INR – 40,000 monthly [indicative]. At the same time, the salary package for senior positions can be even higher, up to 50,000 INR-75000 INR [indicative] for those working with domestic airlines. Further, private airlines offer high-salaried packages up to 2 Lakh to 3 Lakh per month [indicative].

The average salary of an Air Hostess depends on the airline experience and the type of flight (Domestic and International).

Experience Level Average Salary Per Month 
Freshers (Domestic)INR 25,000- INR 40,000
Experienced (Domestic)INR 45,000- INR 75,000
International Airlines INR 80,000- INR 2,00,000

Notes: There are various other perks provided by the airline, like free air tickets for oneself and family, and accommodations include healthcare insurance.

Perks of an Air Hostess

You should know that a fair share of dedication, rewards, and commitments characterise this profession. It is more than a simple quest around the globe.

  • A career as a flight attendant offers an opportunity to earn and explore beautiful places in the world.
  • While on board, you will be able to interact with a wide range of people from different professions, nationalities, and languages. As an Air Hostess, it will help you build industry-specific contacts.
  • Along with a discount on your tours, you will get an exclusive discount on travel and tickets when planning a trip with your family.
  • Airline companies also provide free medical benefits or insurance to employees.
  • Moreover, cabin crews are paid well, along with other benefits like allowances for daily meals and affiliated hotels during layovers, transportation for work trips, gratuity, and retirement benefits.
Perks of an Air Hostess part 1
Read what are the perks of being an air hostess
Perks of an Air Hostess part 2
Read what the benefits of being an air hostess are

Also Read: Career in Aircraft Engineering: Salary and Job Opportunities

Future Prospects and Scope

The employment opportunities for air hostesses are substantial since there is a growing demand for professionals who can work as flight crew for various airlines and serve passengers. Depending on her skill set and industry experience, an air hostess can apply for various domestic and international airlines.

A charming demeanour and a suitable education are required to become a successful air hostess. The field has enormous potential and is likely to expand steadily with each passing year. The airline business is flourishing with the emergence of new carriers and enormous investments.

Air hostesses can grow in their careers with time and experience. Here we have mentioned the career growth and promotion for an Air Hostess:

  • Senior Cabin Crew 
  • In-fight Supervisor 
  • Cabin Crew Manager 
  • Cabin Crew Trainer 
  • Ground Staff or Airline Operation Roles

Top Recruiters

Some of the well-known and famous recruiters in Aviation are mentioned below:

  • SpiceJet
  • IndiGo
  • Lufthansa
  • Virgin Atlantic
  • Air India
  • Air Asia
  • Vistara
  • GoAir
  • Emirates Airlines
  • Qatar Airways
  • British Airways
  • Cathay Pacific

FAQs

Is there any exam for an air hostess?

Ans: For admission to the air hostess program, some of the nation’s top colleges and universities hold entrance exams, such as the AIAEE, NCHMCT JEE, and AEEE. Some private institutes also offer direct admission based on a student’s performance in their 10+2 board exams.

How much do air hostesses get paid?

Ans: Experienced air cabin crew can expect to earn a base salary of £15,000 to £18,000 per year. The starting salary for senior cabin crew, which can be attained after a few years, is around £20,000. You can supplement your base rate with an hourly flight rate, in-flight commission on sales, and performance bonuses.

Is the air hostess’ job safe?

Ans: However, regardless of how many perks you have on the job, it does necessitate a lot of hard work. An air hostess must always be available to assist passengers, pilots, and other crew members. She is in charge of the passengers’ safety and well-being during the flight.

Can air hostesses marry?

Ans. Air hostesses will be allowed to marry if they have completed four years of service and are not allowed to get or become pregnant. A proposal was recently presented to the board of directors of Air India and Indian Airlines to allow the girls to combine their flying careers with matrimony.

What is the qualification of an air hostess?

Ans: To become an air hostess, candidates must have completed Class 12 from a recognised board. While a bachelor’s degree in hospitality or aviation is preferred, specialised training from accredited aviation institutes is essential. Strong communication skills, a good command of English, and meeting specific physical requirements are also crucial for this role.

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32 comments
  1. hey i am so eager in doing the course but i don’t know what to do and i’ve been trying to apply….i need hepl please

  2. I will like to become an air hostest but am in secondary school, I will finish secondary school 2022

    1. Hey Derrika!

      You can enrol yourself in some aviation training institutes after finishing high school. It is the basic requirement for admission. If you have any other doubts, feel free to call us on this number -1800572000! Best of Luck.

  3. I would like to be an air hostess but now i’m in High school. can anyone tell me after 12th what i have to do or what i can do ? please reply!!

    1. Hey Maumita!

      If you need some guidance then please feel free to contact our experts through this number: 1800572000! Thank you.

  4. It was a great article which gave a better idea what Hotel Management is. It will be a great help if you and your team can elaborate more on specific courses and rank the institute for that particular course eg

  5. I am 17 years old doing grade 11 this year in rural areas,I born there,grew up there and study there.i like to travel the world.

  6. My sister and i would like to be an airhotess, currently staying in Zambia. We have our grade 11 certificate.

  7. I really want to become an airhostess , and I read everything given hear,it is really inspiring me to join them. It has been my dream job

      1. Hi Smirtha! Yes, you can pursue a career as an air hostess. Please follow the path mentioned in the blog, if you have more questions feel free to drop us a comment!

    1. Hi. Thank you for reading the article. It can seem a bit difficult to follow a career path as an Air Hostess but it becomes easy with proper planning. Also check out our other article on Air Hostess Courses to find out the perfect courses for you.

  8. Being an air hostess sounds interesting with your help. I hope and wish to become an air hostess.. It’s been my dream

  9. I have read and understood everything about an air hostess. Now looking forward to starting the course after 2 years

  10. Can I become an air hostess or cabin crew without going to an aviation institute?…can I apply for dis job wit height of 5’1?…

    1. Hey Phena,
      The lack of jobs for diploma-holding air hostesses often stems from industry-specific factors. Airlines prioritize candidates with excellent communication, customer service, and language skills alongside their diplomas. Additionally, the aviation industry’s fluctuating demand, impacted by economic downturns or reduced travel post-pandemic, limits job openings. Lastly, intense competition and the preference for experienced candidates can overshadow diploma holders who lack industry exposure. Continuous skill enhancement, certifications, and internships can help bridge this gap.

    1. Hey Anshika Singh,

      Yes. As a girl you can become a flight attendant even if you wear high powered glasses. Most of the airlines allow flight attendants to wear either contact lenses or glasses. However, your vision must be 20/40 with corrected vision. Some airlines can also have guidelines regarding the type of glasses that are worn. Nevertheless, you are allowed to work with spectacles.

      For further information, consult the study abroad experts at Leverage Edu.