The Corporate Flight Attendant 

WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF CORPORATE  AVIATION

                                                WHERE EVERYTHING IS THE SAME---------

                                                                                    EXCEPT WHEN IT IS DIFFERENT!

---------------and so goes the life of the corporate crewmember...

The best laid plans and most organized efforts can, without warning, turn into chaos when an unexpected cabin, service, or aircraft emergency occurs... or the boss presents an unusual or last minute request. 

A well-trained Corporate Flight Attendant can learn to adapt to such unexpected situations and find solutions to problems which would appear to some to be impossible.  A motivated individual can handle a multitude of situations while maintaining a presence of poise and professionalism.  Through knowledge and experience, a person develops confidence.

Confidence in one’s training and the ability to adapt and learn with each changing situation are the Corporate Flight Attendant’s assets.

The Flight Attendant’s role is typically described as routine.  They are expected to provide for the safety and comfort of the passengers.  Their work stations are described as “extending from the cockpit back.”

A Corporate Flight Attendant is unique.  His or her duties encompass all aspects of, and beyond, those efforts required to provide a very personalized First Class Service.  Together, as a team player, the Flight Attendant interacts with the flight deck  crewmembers to assure conformity to the highest levels of safety and to the overall professional and congenial end product of service.

Awareness of the reason for the existence of the Corporate Flight Department is essential for success on behalf of the crew’s efforts.  The goal is to transport VIP’s safely, in a timely manner, within an atmosphere which will contribute to their assurance of overall security, permitting them to meet their very important commitments. 

Knowledge that the crew has done all within their power to accommodate the needs of the passenger, as though they are royalty, is all that is in fact, routine.

What is expected of the Flight Attendant?  A sense of commitment is the first priority.  A good Flight Attendant anticipates before being requested.

As in all aspects of performance, preparation is the key.  It is the Flight Attendant’s responsibility to acquire  as much information as possible concerning the upcoming flight.  What type of aircraft is it?  What serviceware and amenities are on board?  Where is the trip going?  What ground support service may be expected at the next stop?  Who are the passengers on board?  What are their personal likes and dislikes?  Are they on a special diet?   What do they like to read?  Will they require a video presentation?  Will ladies be on board, and would they enjoy a bouquet of fresh flowers?  Are flowers appropriate for the type and length of the flight?  Will babies or small children be on board?  Is the guest a representation of a consumer product company?   Would the presence of that product be an enhancement for the boss?  Will a berth need to be prepared?  What type of repast is best suited to the time of day, geographical availability, and anticipate desires of the guests?  Should alcohol beverages be served?  What are the preferred brands?  What happens if the boss has a bad day?

The list is endless.  Again, keen observation coupled with anticipation of requirements is essential to success.

The Flight Attendant aboard a privately owned aircraft has the privilege of associating with the elite from all walks of life whether from business, government, royalty, or very wealthy individuals.  In almost all instances, the passenger would be the target of curious observers for varying reasons.  It is mandatory for the Flight Attendant to respect and protect the privacy,  confidentiality, and security of the passenger.  Likewise, it is necessary for the Flight Attendant to realize that the passengers usually elect to continue their business dealings while on board, or to relax, and the crewmember must respect this.  Be available when necessary, but otherwise invisible and as non-interruptive as possible.