Qantas Airways Flight Attendant Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Qantas Airways interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. If you had a passenger who couldn't keep calm due to anxiety of flying, how would you handle that situation?
How to Answer
Taking care of passengers with severe anxiety may be a regular occurrence at Qantas Airways, and you should be prepared to expertly manage a situation like this. If possible, try to highlight your ability to soothe the passenger with a calm tone and talk about the educational pieces you would share with the passenger that would help put them at ease.
Answer Example
"A person who is in a state of panic can generally be calmed down through conversation and distraction. If I had a passenger experiencing an anxiety attack while on the job here at Qantas Airways, I would insist that they focus on a conversation with me. Other techniques could include having them close their eyes, take deep breaths, and count to 100 and backwards again."
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2. Do you get motion sickness?
How to Answer
In looking to be a Flight Attendant with Qantas Airways, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you can physically handle the demands of flying on a regular basis. Prior to even applying for this position, hopefully you considered your experiences flying and can handle the physical aspects of the job. With this question, your interviewer is simply looking to hear that you have experience flying and that you aren't prone to motion sickness that some people get when flying.
Answer Example
"I have flown on both large and small passenger planes and have never experienced any adverse effects like motion sickness."
3. Do you enjoy traveling? Tell me about your favorite destination and one destination that is on your bucket list.
How to Answer
Being away from home often can be tough, so be sure to express your interest in travel and new experiences. As a Flight Attendant, you will have the opportunity to fly to many different locations with Qantas Airways. Your interviewer wants to be assured that you would enjoy this aspect of the job, so be open and honest about your favorite destination and your bucket list destination.
Answer Example
"Being born and raised in Melbourne, I haven't had the opportunity yet to travel outside of the country and would love the opportunity to venture throughout the South Pacific and Asia, if hired here at Qantas Airways. One bucket list place to visit for me would definitely be Tokyo, Japan."
4. Why do you think passengers take their frustration out on Flight Attendants, even though the crew of the plane is trying to help them?
How to Answer
It is very common for an upset passenger to take their frustration out on the cabin crew at Qantas Airways, and you will be expected to handle these situations with ease. As you answer this question, talk about the fact that the cabin crew is the face of Qantas Airways while passengers are cramped into a small cabin for hours on end, and it is only natural for some customers to become irritated and frustrated. If you have direct experience working with upset customers on the job, take the time to talk about how you handled those situations.
Answer Example
"People can get very cranky on flights because of the tight space and being in close quarters with strangers. I think it is pretty simple human nature that they get frustrated when they're uncomfortable and can't improve their situation on their own. So, naturally, they look to Flight Attendants for solutions. Unfortunately, they typically reach out to staff when they're already in a very poor mood. When this happens, it's natural to not think rationally or clearly, and the staff becomes the most convenient outlet for their frustration and anger. It's understandable, and I wouldn't let it get to me. I like to take care of people, especially when they're frustrated."
5. What would you do if you saw one of your colleagues deliberately being rude to a passenger?
How to Answer
Strong customer service is crucial to the success of Qantas Airways and at times, Flight Attendants can become stressed and out of focus and this can lead to some bad interactions with passengers. Your interviewer will be looking to hear that you have the ability to diagnose potential customer service issues your colleagues may be having and address those issues promptly. Discuss with your interviewer how you would deal with this type of situation in an effective and personable manner. If you have experienced this before, use a real-life example.
Answer Example
"My reaction would be different depending on if the colleague was one of my direct reports or not. If the individual reported to me, I would speak with them about the situation in private and request that they apologize directly to the passenger. If possible, I would upgrade the passenger on their flight seating as well. If the colleague was an equal, I would likely leave it be and just take special care and attention on the flight to make the passenger feel comfortable and welcome. If the situation became a common occurrence, I would bring it up with our leadership."
6. What do you know about Qantas Airways?
How to Answer
Ideally, your interviewer is looking to hear that you have done your homework on Qantas Airways prior to your interview, and hopefully even prior to applying, to prove that you are committed to the job. Display to the interviewer that you have invested time into researching Qantas Airways by talking about some interesting facts you have found about them that really appeal to you personally. Some great points to bring up are Qantas' dedication to safety, respect and honesty/integrity in all that they do.
Answer Example
"I have conducted a great deal of research on Qantas Airways to find out that you were a great match for my values. I am very impressed with the strong industry reputation you hold. I am a customer-focused individual who believes in treating others with dignity and respect, and I would be proud to bring these values to the Qantas Airways team."
7. Have you ever had a stranger yell at you before? How did you handle the situation?
How to Answer
At times, the work of a flight attendant requires a thick skin to be able to deal with passengers who can be stressed, edgy, and even downright angry. Your interviewer will be looking to hear that you can de-escalate these situations with ease by not taking things personally and by taking a direct approach with the rude passenger. Assure the interviewer that you could handle a situation like this in a professional way if you were fortunate enough to join the Flight Attendant team at Qantas Airways.
Answer Example
"In my current job, I have had customers become very angry with me before because of issues with products they received. When this happened, I did not acknowledge the insults that they threw my way and remained calm to keep my voice and tone even. I do not enjoy situations like this because it makes the other people uncomfortable, but I know I have the right demeanor to calm people down in a quick fashion. It's not about my feelings but about the experience others have."
8. What type of emergency training have you completed?
How to Answer
Going into your interview with Qantas Airways, it is important to know that Qantas Airways requires their cabin crew to hold a first aid certificate. With this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear if you do have any formal training in CPR and first aid. If you do, talk about your certifications. If you don't, no need to fret, as that doesn't disqualify you from the position; the airline sends new staff for formal training frequently. If this is the case, reiterate to your interviewer that you are willing and able to be trained in this aspect of the job.
Answer Example
"I currently do not have CPR certification, but I do understand this is a requirement of the job and would be ready for the training for that certification immediately upon hire."
9. Do you have a current passport?
How to Answer
Since Qantas Airways does fly internationally, you would be required to have a passport and meet certain visa requirements to be able to land in another country. First and foremost, a current passport would be required for the role, so be sure that you are able to speak to your current passport. If you don't currently hold a passport, ensure your interviewer that you are willing and ready to take the steps needed to obtain one.
Answer Example
"My passport recently expired, but I can renew it immediately. If required, I can pay the additional fee for a rush order on a passport."
10. How would you rate your people skills?
How to Answer
The most successful Flight Attendants at Qantas Airways are often those who have great interpersonal skills and the ability to please passengers. Your interviewer will be looking to gauge your people skills during your interview process by asking questions that get at your ability to get along with and serve others. This question is very direct and open ended, so do your best to really sell your interviewer on the great people skills you possess that would lead to success in this role.
Answer Example
"I would rate my people skills an 8 out of 10. In my previous role, my supervisor often commented positively on my ability to relate to our customers well and provide excellent customer service. I was taught from a young age to treat every person with respect and dignity, and these are values that I would carry with me into this role with Qantas Airways."
11. If a passenger got violently ill during a flight, how would you handle this situation?
How to Answer
Being prepared for any situation at a Qantas Airways is a key aspect of being a great Flight Attendant. Your interviewer will be looking to hear how you stay calm, cool, and collected during a situation like this, while also being resourceful in how you handle things for everyone on the flight. If you have experience handling a situation like this, be sure to describe that experience while demonstrating the specific steps you took to make the situation as successful as possible.
Answer Example
"Last week, I had a very ill passenger who was vomiting profusely after takeoff. We had a doctor on board whom I asked for assistance so that we could determine whether it was an emergency or simply a virus or food poisoning. I offered the patient a new seat in an aisle closest to the washroom while moving the other passengers to another seat. I was able to get the passenger comfortable with a warm blanket, ginger-ale, and a cold pack."
12. Why are you the best candidate for Qantas Airways cabin crew?
How to Answer
This question gives you an opportunity to show off your skills, qualities, and accomplishments that make you a unique candidate to be the next Flight Attendant on Qantas Airways cabin crew. By demonstrating how you have proven yourself in your past roles, your interviewer will get a good feel for how you will take the reins and run as Qantas Airways' next Flight Attendant. You may not know what the other candidates have to offer, but you do know your strengths and the unique ways you can add value to the organization. For example, if you share that you are reliable, offer a scenario that proves you follow through and show up. Consider talking about a difficult project you completed, overcoming obstacles, and meeting a tight deadline. Keep your strengths and examples relevant to what you may be expected to accomplish in this new role. Remember, you have so much to offer, so do your best to really sell yourself to your interviewer.
Answer Example
"I think the one quality that is going to make me stand apart from other candidates you are interviewing for this position is my reliability on the job. I am very proud of my attendance record at work, having only called in sick one day during my career when I came down with the stomach flu a couple of years ago. If hired at Qantas Airways, you will quickly find that I am an employee who is committed to my work and my team on a daily basis."
13. Describe a situation when you demonstrated initiative and took action without waiting for direction. What was the outcome?
How to Answer
If hired as the next Flight Attendant at Qantas Airways, your interviewer wants to know that you have the initiative and motivation to take action without any direction from others when the situation would call for it. Talk to your interviewer about your capabilities when it comes to taking control of a situation by giving them an example of a time you did just that. Make sure the situation you describe carefully outlines the scene and your thought process in taking action immediately. Also, be sure to talk about the successful outcome of the situation.
Answer Example
"My current company launched a food bank initiative last year where teams would compete to see who could raise the most funds and donations for our local food bank in 30 days. We really didn't have anyone willing to take control of the team and track our progress, so I decided to do it myself. I am very organized and have the ability to motivate the people around me. It was very rewarding and worth the additional time. I'm happy that I did it because our team almost doubled every other teams' fund and donations."
14. Have you ever been on a team where someone was not pulling their own weight? How did you handle it?
How to Answer
In the workplace, it is inevitable that some people will be overachievers and others will just scrape by doing the bare minimum. Talk to your interviewer about how you feel when others do not pull their weight in the workplace and give an example of how you handled a situation like this in the past.
Answer Example
"I am not the personality type to confront someone who isn't pulling their full weight. Unless, of course, I am their supervisor. In all honestly, I would probably just finish the work for them without saying anything, as opposed to causing a fuss. You cannot force people to want to work, but you can control how hard you work. If the person made a trend of it, I would certainly talk to them and wouldn't hesitate to approach a supervisor, if necessary."
15. Give me an example of a time that you went above and beyond the call of duty at work.
How to Answer
As part of the cabin crew at Qantas Airways, you will often have to go to great lengths to provide great service to passengers. Assure your interviewer that you are willing to go above and beyond your regular duties in order to benefit the passengers at Qantas Airways by talking about a time you have done this in a prior job. Be sure to describe the reasoning as to why you went above and beyond in that particular situation.
Answer Example
"I was raised to believe that you should always deliver more that you are asked to do. I am always willing to go the extra mile for the good of my company. Last week, I was asked to work a double shift because a co-worker called in sick. I did so without complaining because that's the type of employee that I am. If I hadn't taken this on, a few other team members would have been put in really bad situations and I never want to do that to someone else."
16. How do you feel about the dress code and professional standards at Qantas Airways?
How to Answer
Uniforms are an across the board requirement for being a part of the Qantas Airways team. Discuss with the interviewer your thoughts on the dress code and professional standards in the airline industry in general and also if you were to be hired at Qantas Airways. Keep in mind that Qantas Airways also has very strict grooming and personal appearance policies. It is good to familiarize yourself with the policies of the airline prior to the interview and be able to speak about your ability to follow them during your interview.
Answer Example
"I have a strong conviction that a uniform gives passengers the idea that Qantas Airways commands respect and creates an air of professionalism. I would also look forward to the professional look each time I am in flight. I have also read about the personal hygiene policies of the airline and was glad to see that they match my own personal tastes as well."
17. What do you think the primary responsibility is of our cabin crew at Qantas Airways?
How to Answer
While certainly an open ended question that you are free to take in multiple directions, it is important that you carefully read the job description prior to your interview to be able to talk about the two or three main responsibilities of a Flight Attendant with Qantas Airways. In your research, you'll find that people are the priority of Qantas Airways. Be sure to talk to your interviewer about the importance of providing excellent customer service and safety in all that you would do on the job.
Answer Example
"As your next Flight Attendant, I feel that my primary responsibilities are to ensure the safety and comfort of our passengers and to be a positive ambassador of Qantas Airways. If hired for this role, you would quickly find that I have a very positive spirit who connects well with others I work with, including both fellow staff and passengers."
18. Would you be okay with long layovers in this role with Qantas Airways?
How to Answer
Working as a Flight Attendant, it is inevitable that long layovers will happen from time to time at Qantas Airways. There will be times where you will find yourself far away from home and from family. Assure your interviewer that you are capable of handling these layovers by talking about your ability to do what you feel is personally best for you when away from home and family. There is no right or wrong answer for this question; your interviewer will simply be looking to hear that you are able to handle layovers by taking the time to do what is right for you.
Answer Example
"I fully understand that long layovers are part of the job. In all reality, I view this as an opportunity rather than a set-back. The way technology has changed, I can be almost face to face with my spouse and my kids at the snap of a finger through my phone, and that would make being away from them so much easier. If on layover with Qantas Airways, I would look forward to exploring places I've never been to."
19. Tell me about yourself.
How to Answer
With this question, Qantas Airways is looking to get to know you a bit better to see what kind of person they are considering hiring. Sticking with the professional basics and adding in a few fun facts along the way about yourself is a good way to show your interviewer that you are a real person too. Start off by telling the interviewer about your highest level of education. Give a very high-level overview of your past position, stating your job title and what your standard job duties involved. Next, share 2-3 fun facts about yourself focusing on special non-work related skills or hobbies. For example, you might share that you enjoy beatboxing or making origami swans. Be prepared for the interviewer to stop you and ask you to perform your skill on the spot when it's possible! Finally, share with the interviewer why you are seeking a new position, focusing on positives such as wanting to further your career or having an opportunity to work for this exciting company.
Answer Example
"Following high school, I started my career in customer service and really loved the growth track I took from an entry level position to a supervisor by the time I was 24 years old. Over the past year, I've gotten to know one of your current Flight Attendants through our kids' activities and she highly recommended that I apply. I've learned a lot from her about all the ins and outs of this job, and it sounds like something I would love and be successful in. In my free time, I am very active outdoors with my family, and the kids keep me plenty busy with sports and other activities."
20. How would your current coworkers describe you?
How to Answer
This question gives you the opportunity to sell yourself for this position based on feedback that you've received from colleagues in the past. Prior to your interview, be sure to have a good understanding of the job description for a Flight Attendant with Qantas Airways. As well, pay attention to the culture, mission, and values of the organization. Then, as you answer, we recommend selecting three words that truly define who you are and prove that you are a fit for Qantas Airways. Encouraging is a great option. Caring is also a good choice. Respected might be an appropriate choice and hardworking is a commonly used choice. Punctual is great for those who are always a little early. Customer-service focused is an excellent selection. Just be yourself, and remember to keep it positive and related to this job as a Flight Attendant.
Answer Example
"My coworkers have always told me that I am a reliable team player and they appreciate my ability to be called upon when needed to help out in any situation. I believe that a team effort is the key to success in any organization. If you were to talk to any of my former supervisors, they would tell you that I show up to work every day with a smile on my face and a positive attitude in tow, and I know this aspect of my personality would suit me well as a Flight Attendant here at Qantas Airways."
21. What does your overall availability look like if we hired you to join our Flight Attendant team?
How to Answer
Prior to your interview with Qantas Airways, make sure to research the time requirements of the job so that you are clear on what they need from the candidate they hire. Typically, the hours are laid out in the job description on the Qantas Airways website. If it only says part-time or full-time and you are asked about the hours you're available to work, it is okay to ask questions regarding the expected hours for clarification. Once they have laid out the expectations, you can tell them that the expectations meet your availability. You want to show them you're excited about the job, and you are willing to make yourself available to work when they need you.
Answer Example
"Coming into this role early in my career, I fully expect to be scheduled for flights to destinations all over the country and to be working on holiday weekends, as well. I am fortunate to be young in my career with no hard commitments, and I'm willing to work as hard as possible to prove myself in this role."
22. Do you prefer doing work on a routine day-to-day basis or do you prefer mixing up your routine occasionally?
How to Answer
To prove your ability to successful as a Flight Attendant on Qantas Airways' cabin crew, you definitely need to strike a balance in your answer here, as the job requires both routine work and the ability to be flexible in what you may be called upon to do during your work day. As you answer and prove your ability to work a routine while being flexible, don't hesitate to point out a role you've had in the past where you had to do just this.
Answer Example
"I prefer working in a more predictable environment because I can be more effective in my tasks. This would prove to be very beneficial for the Qantas Airways passengers who I would be serving on a daily basis. With that said, I can certainly work in an unpredictable environment from time to time. I learned quickly early in my career that being flexible in my work was necessary, as I imagine it is to be successful as a Flight Attendant here."