A day in the life of a private air hostess
The idea of being paid to fly around the world and look after high-end clients on their flights sounds like a dream. And for many young girls growing up, the job of a private air hostess seems nothing short of glamorous.
However, being a private air hostess is a lot of work – and requires extensive training. Keep reading to discover the realities of the life of a private air hostess and see if this career is right for you.
Morning and pre-flight prep:
Pre-flight briefing
In the morning, you’ll attend an important pre-flight meeting. In this meeting, you’ll be assigned your working role for the upcoming flight. The pre-flight meeting will also cover:
- Flight details
- Schedule of the flight
- The number of kids on board
- Any passengers with special requirements (diabetic guests, passengers in wheelchairs, etc.)
Cabin inspections
A key part of private air hostess jobs is to carry out cabin inspections. After the pre-flighting meeting, you’re expected to carry out these inspections and any other pre-flight duties like:
- Checking the safety equipment
- Completing security checks
- Ensuring the aircraft is clean
- Checking the information in the seat pockets is up to date
- Look over all the meals, drinks and stock on board
In-Flight duties
Safety procedures/demos
After welcoming guests onto the plane, you’re required to assist them throughout the entirety of the flight.
This includes demonstrating safety procedures and checking that all hand luggage is stored safely on the plane. You’ll also need to check everyone’s seat belts and confirm the galleys are secure before take-off.
In-flight hospitality services
As a private air hostess, you should always be on-call for whatever services your guests need. For example, serving meals and refreshments, and selling duty-free goods – including advising passengers of any restrictions they’ll expect to find at their destination.
Entertainment and comfort
Unlike on commercial flights, passengers on private aeroplanes aren’t expected to entertain themselves. Instead, air hostesses are there to create an experience by organising events, mixing drinks and cocktails, and assisting passengers with unusual requests.
Language and cultural accommodation
If you want to work for an airline that serves international routes, you might be expected to be fluent in multiple languages so you can accommodate your passengers.
Passenger relations
Establishing a rapport with passengers as a private air hostess is one of the most important parts of the job. Be expected to deal with any difficult or inebriated passengers, reassure nervous fliers or those flying in a private jet for the first time, and do everything with a big smile on your face.
While the role of a private air hostess can be challenging and requires a lot of training, the job is extremely rewarding and if done with the right airline, nothing short of a dream!
