To be eligible for a flight attendant position in the U.S., you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or legally authorized to work in the United States with valid documentation.

• Have a valid U.S. passport or be able to obtain one before completion of airline training. Your passport must be in good standing and allow international travel. Note: You do NOT require a valid Passport to attend Flight Ready Academy.

• Have no major restrictions on international travel. This includes unresolved legal issues, active warrants, or citizenship/visa issues with common airline destinations.

• Meet all required identification standards to pass airport security screenings and gain airport badging clearance.

➡️ Tip: If you're unsure about your legal eligibility, check with TSA or consult an immigration/work-status advisor.

Airlines typically require:

• A high school diploma or GED at minimum.

• Some airlines prefer or require college coursework or a degree, but it’s not mandatory.

• Customer service experience (1–2 years preferred) — this includes jobs in hospitality, retail, restaurants, call centers, or healthcare.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential.

• Bilingual applicants and those with military or volunteer experience are often viewed favorably.

➡️ Tip: Highlight any work where you’ve dealt with people in stressful or fast-paced situations on your resume!

Age minimums vary slightly by airline:

• 18 years old – Required by most regional carriers (e.g., SkyWest, Republic, Mesa).

• 20–21 years old – Required by most major U.S. airlines (e.g., American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue).

• There is no maximum age limit as long as you meet all other physical and legal requirements.

➡️ Tip: Don’t let age discourage you—many flight attendants begin second careers in their 30s, 40s, or beyond!

Flight attendants must meet physical standards related to safety and aircraft limitations:

• Ability to reach 65"–70" overhead (usually barefoot) to access emergency equipment.

• You must be able to securely fit in the aircraft jumpseat harness.

• You must demonstrate good physical agility

➡️ Tip: If you're concerned about reach, practice standing flat-footed and reaching to at least 70". Airlines often test this during interviews.

Flight attendant certification is issued only by the FAA after airline training, not by any school before you’re hired.

Here’s how it works:

1. You’re hired by an airline.

2. You complete their FAA-approved in-house training (4–8 weeks long).

3. You pass written, oral, and practical exams.

4. You earn the Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency, which qualifies you to fly on U.S. commercial flights.

Training covers:

• Emergency evacuation procedures

• Firefighting and decompression

• Medical aid

• Aircraft door operation

• Passenger handling and crew coordination

➡️ Tip: Flight Ready Academy prepares you for training success—so you’re ready to earn your certificate when the time comes.