I started my career as a Corporate Flight Attendant. I have been flying since I was 18 years old. I started by googling different training programs, but it wasn't until I spoke with a woman from New Jersey that I discovered Flight Safety in Tetorboro, which is where I took the course.
I came out of Flight Safety a week later with my certification, but had no idea how to get a job. Working in Corporate Flying usually infers freelancing. It is possible to be picked up by a corporation, but not always
guaranteed.
This is a full disclaimer before we dive into breaking into the world of Corporate Flying; this is an extremely competitive business. I am here to tell you how to break into it and then how to stay in it.
In most cases, you will be your main road block. Remember anything is possible if you want it badly enough. This business will call you to be extremely self-motivated and make sure you always show your confidence, not your weakness.
Requirements
- Must be 18 years old or older
- $5,000 – 6,000 for training fees (6 day course, with CPR training)
Plus $3,000 each year to re-certify
- Corporate Cabin Attendant Training Certification
*Any previous flying experience is a plus!*
Schools
My two favorite schools are Flight Safety International and FACTS. Both of these schools meet the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, which automatically adds to their, and in turn your credibility. Other schools offer training programs, but they do not have the same FAA standard.
Click below for the course page and locations.
Course - Corporate Cabin Attendant
- FACTS
Course - Cabin Safety and Emergency Procedures Training
Locations include: Dallas, TX (DFW)
Fort Lauderdale, FL (FXE)
Morristown, NJ (MMU)
Van Nuys, CA (VNY)
Alright, let's pause here.
How are you feeling?
I know that some of this information might feel overwhelming, but hopefully you're also excited!
The course fee is definitely steep, but there are a lot of moving parts that need to be accounted for while flying. I should also address the yearly retraining that costs about $3,000 for re-certification. As new airplanes are released and other safety protocols are updated the FAR requires each person to re-certify.
BUT let's move on to landing the job after the training course.
Applying for Jobs
First, I suggest you connect with pilots and managing companies
EJM,
Don't forget to make connections with Pilots and companies via LinkedIn.
In my experience, I found jobs because of connections I made within the business.
True story... I would go to hotels nearby airports, dressing up as if I just flew (sometimes even with a suitcase that was usually empty). As the pilots and flight attendants entered the hotel bar I would engage with them, ask them where they flew in from, you know small talk. I got four gigs from doing that. I can't stress enough how creating your own network will make freelancing feel easy.
Facebook Groups
Connect with others via...
Flight Attendant Career Connection
CAJL Flight Attendants Network
CFA (Charlie Foxtrot Alpha) A Corporate Flight Attendant Community
Meet Ups and Crew Life for Corporate Flight Attendants
Flight Attendant Entrepreneurs
So You Wanna Be A Corporate Flight Attendant
JOAT Tips
Be self-motivated.
Draw from your prior experiences.
Self-market yourself use social media.
Be adaptable.
Always be willing to learn and better yourself.
First impressions are important.
Create a network of people.
Fake it till you make it.
Get the bigger passport book.
Well, that's all I have for you this time. If there is something you have further questions on connect with me! I love to see your feedback and to answer any questions to help you along your way.
Until next time, Cheers
Jack