Professional Documents
Culture Documents
CHECK ANSWERS
Practice English with us! This exercise is designed for flight attendants and
airplane cabin crew. It will help you develop stronger communication skills in
English. A passenger wants some information from you. Choose the
most natural-sounding response:
LEVEL: Medium
CHECK ANSWERS
5. If you start to feel nauseous, there are air- bags in the seat
pocket in front of you.
8. We'll be in 20 minutes.
9. The little fold-down tables where passengers eat their meals are called
"meal trays" or "tray ."
5. Passengers are reminded to turn off all cellphones ( = mobile phones) and
other devices.
9. Your phone has to be turned off for the of the flight. ( = for the
whole flight)
The average person is usually quite curious about what life is really like for flight attendants, what it feels like to wear
that uniform, what really goes on among cabin crew, how many languages the flight attendant can converse in and
how glamorous the lifestyle really is.
And flight attendant hopefuls are equally interested to glean as much information as they
can from working flight attendants, and to receive confirmation or encouragement that the dream is within reach.
A charming story follows. It’s written by a former flight attendant who writes about her career – starting at age four
when she used to line up her dolls and teddies on a ‘plane’ she would convince her brother to ‘pilot’.
EMERGENCY EXIT
The cabin area also includes the galley where the food is prepared, seating area for flight attendants and storage
space that is used to carry food and beverages and other essential items. The space in between the seats is known
as the aisle and is used for walking up and down the aircraft. Depending on the specific kind of aircraft that you are
flying in, there may be one or two aisles.
The galley area is usually accessed by flight attendants to prepare the food and drinks that are served to passengers.
In larger aircrafts lavatories or toilets are arranged in the front, the middle and at the back of the aircraft for the
convenience of passengers. There are also overhead bins that are provided to store any small hand baggage that the
passengers may be carrying.
When you are seated you will be able to raise the shutter of the window if you are lucky to have a window seat. Each
seat has a seat belt that can be adjusted and worn. This is something that you will necessarily need to do during
take-off and landing and also when the pilot indicates turbulence. Above each seat is a panel that has individual
reading lights, air conditioner fan control and a bell that you can use to beckon the flight attendants in case you need
anything. The panel also contains oxygen masks that drop automatically when the cabin pressure reduces. Below
each seat you can find floatation devices in most aircrafts that need to be used in case of an emergency landing.
The area that is not accessible to the passenger is the cockpit. This is located in front of the aircraft from where the
pilots control and manage the aircraft. For security purposes, this area is enclosed and completely separated from the
cabin area and only authorized personnel are allowed inside. In the good old days when airline terrorism was not so
rampant, children were often taken by flight attendants to give them a firsthand look at the dials.
Questions and Answers:
1) What is the part of the aircraft where passengers are seated called?
a) Cabin
b) Galley
c) Cockpit
d) None of the above
2) When are the passengers required to wear a seat belt?
a) During take-off
b) During landing
c) During turbulence
d) All of the above
3) The _____________ is the area where the food of the passengers is prepared.
a) Cockpit
b) Galley
c) Cabin
d) Food is not served on aircrafts
4) Which part of the aircraft is not accessible to the passengers?
a) Aisle
b) Lavatory
c) Galley
d) Cockpit
5) Are passengers allowed to store some of their luggage inside the aircraft?
a) Yes, passengers can store carry on baggage in overhead bins
b) Yes, but only passengers seated in the front row seats can store their luggage
c) No, there is no place to store carry on baggage
d) Storage area varies in different airlines and can either be in front or at the back of the aircraft
Answers:
1) A
2)D
3)B
4)D
5)A
According to aviation expert, Diana Fairechild recycled air on planes aids in spreading infections like flu and
tuberculosis and minimal oxygen in the cabin can also lead to a higher level of temper tantrums and boisterous
behavior among kids. There have been many reports of air rage resulting in unscheduled landings, jail time and
penalties for passengers, career changes for flight attendants and even death of a passenger.
Some hypothesize that the lack of oxygen is a major cause of air rage. This theory is
also supported by the environmental physician, Vincent Mark, MD and Dr. Ross Lee Graham from the University of
Linkoeping, Sweden.
Even though air rage seems to be a part of flying, there are specific actions that airlines can take to pacify
passengers and minimize air rage. Make sure that the passengers are updated about flight schedules periodically.
Knowing the schedules can also help in making the passengers more comfortable. Ensuring that seat numbers are
assigned and that the seating is done in a scheduled and orderly manner can help in avoiding long lines with hand
baggage in hand and fights for window or aisle seats. Communication is the key here. Make sure that you have
adequate security for passengers in waiting rooms and explain to them that their check in baggage is safe.
Passengers can also do their bit to avoid air rage. Carry a blanket, pillow and toys for the child to ensure comfort.
Talking to other passengers and sharing your discomfort has also known to prevent problems from escalating. There
are workshops that are organized for flight attendants and crews that teach them effective techniques for managing
unruly passengers and diffusing the tense situation.
Interesting article
Questions:
d) Normal behavior
2) What are the main triggers that add to unruly behavior of passengers?
a) Psychological problems
b) Excessive alcohol consumption
b) Change in seating
c) Cleaning of aircrafts
d) Search of baggage
5) Which one among the following four options is the best way to deal with air rage?
a) Nothing can be done about it, it can happen any time
e) B&C
f) D only
Answers
1) C
2) D
3) A
4) C
5) E
Do you know anyone who breezes through interviews without a hint of nervousness? Wouldn’t that be
great? Unfortunately, it’s rare! Most of us get nervous just thinking about it, and need all the help we can get. For
anyone planning to attend cabin crew interviews, some tailored advice follows.
Be prepared – make sure you understand the interview process, do your research on
the airline and prepare your answers with all that you know about the airline in mind.
Stand out – don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Emphasise your unique
points of difference i.e. what sets you apart from others. Just don’t stand out for the wrong reasons!
Communicate effectively – doing this job well requires top communication skills so it’s essential that you
demonstrate yours throughout the interview. Don’t panic if your English isn’t perfect, you can also impress them with
your listening skills and body language, and by knowing when to stop talking.
Sell yourself confidently – but wait for the right time to do so. Do it subtly, and when appropriate.
Interview process
Visit this online resource and read through the 2010 Jetstar interview process.
Read through these
rephrased explanations
below and match them
with the correct step of
the interview process. The first one has been done for you.
You might be asked about different locations and their ICAO designations, and tested in giving correct change:
Mathematics and geography test
Successful applicants will be asked to remain and other applicants will be advised they’ve been unsuccessful:
An interview with a facilitator. In this case, Jetstar advises questions will be behavioural, and answers should be
specific:
Successful applicants will be contacted by phone, references will be confirmed, medical company details will be
given and permission will be requested for the company to conduct a security check to allow the issue of an
ASIC card:
The candidates are introduced to the facilitators and given a brief of the process for the day:
Those who have received a call back will be briefed on the position of cabin crew member with Jestar:
Candidates will be split into groups and asked to complete activities. Although candidates are working in teams,
how a candidate will be assessed is individually:
Each candidate is interviewed separately by one facilitator: one on one interview:
Now list the stages of the interview in order
Answers
You might be asked about different locations and their ICAO designations, and tested in giving correct change:
Mathematics and geography test
Successful applicants will be asked to remain and other applicants will be advised they’ve been
unsuccessful: Call back
An interview with a facilitator. In this case, Jetstar advises questions will be behavioural, and answers should be
specific: One on one interview
Successful applicants will be contacted by phone, references will be confirmed, medical company details will be
given and permission will be requested for the company to conduct a security check to allow the issue of an
ASIC card: Reference check, medical and ASIC
The candidates are introduced to the facilitators and given a brief of the process for the day: Meet and greet
Those who have received a call back will be briefed on the position of cabin crew member with Jestar: Briefing
Candidates will be split into groups and asked to complete activities. Although candidates are working in teams,
how a candidate will be assessed individually: Group exercise
Each candidate is interviewed separately by one facilitator: One on one interview
1. Meet and greet
3. Group exercise
5. Call back
6. Briefing
After health professionals, cabin crew must rate as one of the professions most exposed to communicable illnesses
while on the job and, unlike doctors and nurses, there’s not much in the way of protection on hand, and no escape
route! Add to that the long, intensive hours worked and jet lag, how can flight attendants possibly boost their
immunity and minimise sick days?
You’ll know the importance of keeping hands clean and keeping hydrated, getting enough sleep and perhaps taking
supplements, but what else can you do?
Here’s a fascinating article which reports the results of a survey on illness among cabin crew. Let’s read through that
and then lighten up with some great healthy tips.
Click to read
Statistics comprehension
1. 1 in 7 of the staff surveyed had to take more than _________ sick leave in the previous year.
2. 1 in 23 was diagnosed with _______________ even though the average age of those surveyed was 40
3. For the general (British) population, the rate of diagnosis for the under 44 age group is as low as 1 in
_________.
4. 1 in 20 reported being diagnosed with __________ __________ syndrome.
5. This compares with 1 in _________ for the general population.
Extra resources: http://aircrewhealth.com www.flyingwithhealthysolutions.com
Healthy tips for cabin crew!
Make the decision to become more health conscious. Learn about the different supplements and healthy foods
available, and what they can do for you
Before you fly, research healthy food and lifestyle options at your destination
While flying, avoid eating from the menu. As much as possible, take your own healthy snacks, such as fruit, nuts
or yogurt, and home-cooked meals. Plan ahead with other cabin crew to each bring some healthy food to share
Investigate natural cold and flu prevention and remedies that boost immunity, strengthen the respiratory system
and relieve symptoms with side effect or unpleasant odour
Carry essential oils with you and use them in a steam bath or on your pillow
Try some different relaxation techniques and choose one that you find works best for you
Answers
1. A month
2. Cancer
3. 200
4. Chronic Fatigue
5. 1000
Boarding
Door closure
Safety demonstration
Take-off/ascent
Turbulence
Descent/final
Landing
Boarding
This announcement is usually made while the aircraft is parked at the gate and the last
passengers are boarding.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the Captain has turned on the Fasten Seat Belt sign. If you haven’t
already done so, please stow your carry-on luggage underneath the seat in front of you or in an
overhead bin. Please take your seat and fasten your seat belt. And also make sure your seat
back and folding trays are in their full upright position.
If you are seated next to an emergency exit, please read carefully the special instructions card
located by your seat. If you do not wish to perform the functions described in the event of an
emergency, please ask a flight attendant to reseat you.
We remind you that this is a non-smoking flight. Smoking is prohibited on the entire aircraft,
including the lavatories. Tampering with, disabling or destroying the lavatory smoke detectors is
prohibited by law.
If you have any questions about our flight today, please don’t hesitate to ask one of our flight
attendants. Thank you.”
Door closure
Usually before the door is closed, or while it is closed, this announcement is made.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is/my name is X and I’m your chief flight attendant. On behalf of
(Captain Z and) the entire crew, welcome aboard ??? Airlines flight ???, non-stop service from
??? to ??? (then continuing on to ???).
Our flight time will be of ??? hours and ??? minutes. We will be flying at an altitude of ???
feet/meters at a ground speed of ??? miles per hour/kilometers per hour.
At this time, make sure your seat backs and tray tables are in their full upright position and that
your seat belt is correctly fastened. Also, your portable electronic devices must be set to
‘airplane’ mode until an announcement is made upon arrival. Thank you.”
When the door is closed and the aircraft is about to pushback, the Captain or the Chief flight
attendant will make an announcement intended to the flight attendants.
“Flight attendants/Cabin Crew, please prepare for gate departure.”
“Flight attendants/Cabin Crew, doors on automatic, cross-check and report. Thank you.”
Safety demonstration
Depending on the type of aircraft and presence of a video system, this announcement will be
made.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to direct your attention to the television monitors. We will be
showing our safety demonstration and would like the next few minutes of your complete
attention.”
If there is no video system and the flight attendants do the demonstration themselves in the
aisles, the announcement might be as follows.
“Now we request your full attention as the flight attendants demonstrate the safety features of
this aircraft”.
Either on the video screen, or live, the safety demonstration might sound like this. If it is a video
presentation, it usually starts with a friendly welcome from the airline, the reminder of the seat
belt sign currently illuminated, the seat back and tray table restriction, as well as the carry-on
luggage.
“When the seat belt sign illuminates, you must fasten your seat belt. Insert the metal fittings one
into the other, and tighten by pulling on the loose end of the strap. To release your seat belt, lift
the upper portion of the buckle. We suggest that you keep your seat belt fastened throughout the
flight, as we may experience turbulence.
There are several emergency exits on this aircraft (??? forward, ??? aft, and ??? over each
wing.) Please take a few moments now to locate your nearest exit. In some cases, your nearest
exit may be behind you. If we need to evacuate the aircraft, floor-level lighting will guide you
towards the exit. Doors can be opened by moving the handle in the direction of the arrow. Each
door is equipped with an inflatable slide which may also be detached and used as a life raft.
Oxygen and the air pressure are always being monitored. In the event of a decompression,
an oxygen mask will automatically appear in front of you. To start the flow of oxygen, pull the
mask towards you. Place it firmly over your nose and mouth, secure the elastic band behind your
head, and breathe normally. Although the bag does not inflate, oxygen is flowing to the mask. If
you are travelling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask on first,
and then assist the other person. Keep your mask on until a uniformed crew member advises you
to remove it.
In the event of an emergency, please assume the bracing position. (Lean forward with your
hands on top of your head and your elbows against your thighs. Ensure your feet are flat on the
floor.)
A life vest is located in a pouch under your seat or between the armrests. When instructed to do
so, open the plastic pouch and remove the vest. Slip it over your head. Pass the straps around
your waist and adjust at the front. To inflate the vest, pull firmly on the red cord, only when
leaving the aircraft. If you need to refill the vest, blow into the mouthpieces. Use the whistle and
light to attract attention. (Also, your seat bottom cushion can be used as a flotation device. Pull
the cushion from the seat, slip your arms into the straps, and hug the cushion to your chest.)
At this time, your portable electronic devices must be set to ‘airplane’ mode until an
announcement is made upon arrival.
We remind you that this is a non-smoking flight. Tampering with, disabling, or destroying the
smoke detectors located in the lavatories is prohibited by law.
You will find this and all the other safety information in the card located in the seat pocket in
front of you. We strongly suggest you read it before take-off. If you have any questions, please
don’t hesitate to ask one of our crew members. We wish you all an enjoyable flight.”
Take-off/ascent
Usually, the Captain will make a small briefing before take-off, sometimes indicating the priority
for take-off (e.g. “We are third in priority for take-off, we should depart in about five minutes”).
But there is always an announcement like:
After passing above clouds or turbulence, the Captain will turn off the Fasten Seat Belt sign, but
usually, the aircraft is still climbing to its cruising altitude. The flight attendants will then invite
the passengers to release their seat belts if needed.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the Captain has turned off the Fasten Seat Belt sign, and you may now
move around the cabin. However we always recommend to keep your seat belt fastened while
you’re seated.
In a few moments, the flight attendants will be passing around the cabin to offer you hot or
cold drinks, as well as breakfast/dinner/supper/a light meal/a snack. Alcoholic drinks are also
available at a nominal charge/with our compliments. (On long flights with inflight
entertainment: Also, we will be showing you our video presentation.) Now, sit back, relax,
and enjoy the flight. Thank you.”
Turbulence
Occasionally, turbulence may occur during a flight. The seat belt sign will turn on and, in case of
moderate to severe turbulence ahead, the flight crew will make a brief announcement.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the Captain has turned on the fasten seat belt sign. We are now crossing
a zone of turbulence. Please return your seats and keep your seat belts fastened. Thank you.”
Descent/final
Before, or during the descent, the Captain will usually make an announcement with local time
and temperature at the destination airport, and time left until arrival. It is followed by an
announcement from the flight attendant.
“Ladies and gentlemen, as we start our descent, please make sure your seat backs and tray
tables are in their full upright position. Make sure your seat belt is securely fastened and
all carry-on luggage is stowed underneath the seat in front of you or in the overhead bins. Thank
you.”
To indicate the landing clearance or final approach, the Captain will either make the following
announcement and/or blink the No Smoking sign.
“Ladies and gentlemen, we have just been cleared to land at the ??? airport. Please make sure
one last time your seat belt is securely fastened. The flight attendants are currently passing
around the cabin to make a final compliance check and pick up any remaining cups and glasses.
Thank you.”
Landing
After touchdown, and as the aircraft is turning off the active runway and taxiing to the gate, the
flight attendant will do one last announcement.
“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to ??? Airport. Local time is ??? and the temperature is ???.
For your safety and comfort, please remain seated with your seat belt fastened until the Captain
turns off the Fasten Seat Belt sign. This will indicate that we have parked at the gate and that it
is safe for you to move about. (Depending on the airline’s policy/local laws: At this time, you
may use your cellular phones if you wish./Cellular phones may only be used once the Fasten
Seat Belt sign has been turned off.)
Please check around your seat for any personal belongings you may have brought on board with
you and please use caution when opening the overhead bins, as heavy articles may have shifted
around during the flight.
If you require deplaning assistance, please remain in your seat until all other passengers have
deplaned. One of our crew members will then be pleased to assist you.
On behalf of ??? Airlines and the entire crew, I’d like to thank you for joining us on this trip and
we are looking forward to seeing you on board again in the near future. Have a nice
day/evening/night/stay!”
https://puvidya.wordpress.com/category/3-set-i-exercises/
How would you handle a passenger who refuses to comply with flight attendant
instructions during takeoff and landing?
What would you do if someone afraid of flying started panicking?
What are the first things you would do in an emergency situation in the air?
What was your favorite flight experience?
What are your customer service strengths?
How have you resolved a challenging situation with a co-worker in the past?
Do you feel comfortable in new environments and situations?
There are several jobs that people dream about. The job of a flight attendant is one of them.
Some of the known benefits attached to this job are the ability to meet interesting people,
see the world in five star accommodations while earning a good salary and status.
Al though this job has many positive aspects, there is much stress as well.
Flight attendants work for commercial airline companies. The general job role is to monitor
passenger’s compliance with airline safety rules, inform passengers regarding flight details
or changes, assist passengers with basic requests and serve food and drink. The flight
attendant also has various important responsibilities before passengers’ board and as they
serve people during the flight. Clearly, basic customer service skills and effective personal
communication skills are very much required.
You may be interested in reading the related articles located in the customer
service category.
You can also refer to the cabin crew interview article for more question and answers.