Lecture: 10 Reasons People Fail Flight Attendant Training

Introduction

• Speaker: Abby Unger, owner of Flight Attendant Career Connection
• Purpose: To inform aspiring flight attendants about common pitfalls during training and how to avoid them.
• Audience: Those with Conditional Job Offers (CJOs) or those planning ahead.

Abby Unger's Background

• Experience: Worked for several major and regional airlines in the US.
• Roles: In-flight instructor, customer service instructor.
• Passion for Training: Enjoys training and has extensive experience.
• Goals: Provide encouragement and practical advice to succeed in training.

10 Reasons People Fail Flight Attendant Training

1. Failing the Drug Test

• Drug tests can be conducted before or during training.
• Includes prohibited drugs by the Department of Transportation (e.g., marijuana).
• Note: Even legal medicinal marijuana use can disqualify you.
• Medications for ADHD, anxiety are typically okay.

2. Door Drills

• Definition: Simulated evacuation tests for aircraft doors and windows.
• Importance of mastering various aircraft evacuation procedures.
• Training provides ample practice opportunities.

3. Testing and Exams

• Pass Rate: Generally between 80-90% to pass.
• Exams can be open or closed book/manual.
• Advice: Research test-taking strategies and understand your learning style.
• Instructors aim to help you succeed, not to trick you.

4. Relationship Issues

• Types: Friendships, romantic relationships, and situationships.
• Risks: Unprofessional behavior, conflicts within training class.
• Physical relationships can cause additional issues.

5. Alcohol Consumption

• Rules: FAA guideline (8-hour rule), airlines may have stricter policies (10-12 hours).
• Advice: Be cautious about appearances; clear alcohol from tables before the cutoff time.
• Risks: Inappropriate behavior can lead to dismissal.

6. Personal Issues at Home

• Examples: Unsupportive partners, homesickness, family emergencies.
• Impact: May force you to leave training to address personal matters.

7. Sickness

• Situations: Illnesses requiring hospital visits or extended recovery.
• Advice: Maintain good health practices (rest, hygiene, diet).
• Outcome: Policies vary by airline regarding rejoining training.

8. Background Check Issues

• Timing: May occur before or during training.
• Scope: Federal background checks see everything, including expunged records.
• Risks: Disqualification for undisclosed past incidents or inability to enter certain countries (e.g., Canada).

9. Tardiness

• Importance: Punctuality is crucial; being late can lead to dismissal.
• Advice: Always be early to class, breaks, and transportation.

10. Non-Compliance

• Areas: Uniform guidelines, appearance, behavior.
• Examples: Visible tattoos, incorrect attire, inappropriate attitudes.
• Outcomes: Repeated non-compliance can lead to dismissal.

Conclusion

• Encouragement: Understanding these reasons helps you avoid pitfalls.
• Final Note: Most reasons are avoidable and not surprising.
• Good Luck: Best wishes for success in your training and career.