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United Airlines Interview Questions and Answers

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Practice for your upcoming United Airlines job interview by using our mock interview. Click 'First Question' below to get started.

First Question

35 United Airlines Interview Questions

10 Interview Questions With Sample Answers

1.   Which of our hubs would be your top three choices to be based out of?

What You Need to Know

United has hub locations across the United States, including hubs in the four largest cities in the U.S., and their 70,000 employees reside in every U.S. state and around the world. Those who are new to the company may be placed wherever the company needs them, whereas those with more seniority may have more of a choice in the matter. So when answering this question, go the extra mile, and don't limit yourself to their hub cities (Chicago O'Hare, Denver, Houston Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark Liberty, San Francisco, and Washington Dulles). Also, offer an additional three cities that aren't hubs as well.

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

Answer Example

"I'd love to work at Newark Liberty or any New York airport, At San Francisco airport, or any around the Bay Area, or at LAX, or John Wayne airport, or San Diego. But I would be grateful for the opportunity and gladly accept any destination as a home base."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

2.   Are you comfortable working a wide range of shifts and overtime?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewer is curious about how well-versed you are in what it takes to succeed with their company. They have a fair understanding of why many of the candidates in their "talent community" would pursue a position with them, but they need assurances that you are up to handling the more stressful aspects of the job. So, when performing your research, go beyond the job description and comb through every page of their website. You'll find a lot of information there and elsewhere online on what to expect. Consider sharing some relatable examples of your on-the-job experiences to emphasize you have prior experience in this regard and are up to the job ahead.

Written by Kevin Downey on August 31st, 2023

What You Need to Know

United boldly advertises they have "the most comprehensive route network in the world." They also emphasize that dependability and timeliness are critical to operating their schedule and meeting customer expectations. Therefore, whether you are pursuing a role as a flight attendant, a ramp agent, or a position in operations, the hours you work may vary. Whether as a result of weather-related flight interruptions or other uncontrollable circumstances, they need all their employees to be ready to go the extra mile in helping them "provide a safe work environment for all of us, and a safe, reliable and strong business operation for our customers." They also advertise that United's flight attendants need to be "available for global assignments 24/7, including nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours." They are expected to "fulfill reserve assignments on short notice and be away from your base for days at a time."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"In my most recent position with Airline XYZ, I had an inconsistent schedule that required me to often be on call. I worked many weekends and holidays. I completely understand that this schedule is part of the lifestyle of a flight attendant. I'm happy to work any hours offered to me."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

2nd Answer Example

"I am available for a wide range of hours and overtime. I prefer to be made aware of my schedule ahead of time so that I can make appropriate childcare arrangements."

Written by Rachelle Enns

3.   Is there anything restricting you from adhering to our uniform standards?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewer is curious how thoroughly you've explored their company, whether you embrace the look of their brand and the necessity of their uniform appearance standards. As they detail on their careers site, "professional appearance, excellent grooming standards, and willingness to follow uniform, hair, tattoo and piercing guidelines, is a necessity." However, your interviewer is aware that not everyone feels the same about wearing a uniform to work, some prioritizing their identity over the identity of the company, and others being proud of being unified in appearance with their teams.

Uniforms in the airline industry are more common than not. So explore United's uniform appearance standards and come prepared to speak about the importance of United Airlines' dress code and what it stands for. Additionally, depending on the position and how "dress code varies by position," a detailed uniform standard for your position may need to be provided by your interviewer. But make every effort to answer any questions you have on your own before posing them in your interview.

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

What You Need to Know

You can find their readily available pdf online about their "Flight Attendant Uniform Appearance Standards," where they break down all their expectations and guidelines. But they observe their uniform as more than a uniform, "Your image is the United brand. Your appearance is one of the first things noticed by customers, and it leaves a lasting impression. You are seen as a representative of the United brand whenever you are in uniform. It is important to convey a professional and positive image each day you come to work."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

Experienced Example

"I am accustomed to wearing a uniform at work and am happy to abide by any dress code requirements to work with United Airlines. I would wear the uniform with pride. I love the uniform at United. It is far more stylish, cosmopolitan, modern, and approachable than any other airline."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

Answer Example

"Uniforms are very important in this industry, so I am comfortable with this policy."

Written by Kevin Downey on September 1st, 2023

4.   How do you feel about working on your feet for extended periods of time?

What You Need to Know

Many of the jobs offered by United Airlines have physical expectations, and your interviewer needs to determine how aware you are of the expectations that come with this one. For example, flight attendants need to be able to stand, walk, kneel, bend, stoop, stretch, reach, lift heavy objects (such as luggage to overhead bin or window exit), and push and pull a beverage cart (up to 250 lbs.). They also need to be able to sit in an assigned jump seat with seatbelt and shoulder harness fastened. So, do your research in advance and be ready to showcase how well you've prepared for your interview with full knowledge of what to expect.

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

Answer Example

"I thrive on any physical activity at work. I believe the more active you are, the more energy and stamina you have at work. Since this is a priority of mine, I am no stranger to meeting the physical demands of my job."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

5.   What do you feel makes you uniquely qualified for this position?

What You Need to Know

Your interviewer is curious if you've identified who they are looking for to fill this position and who they are looking for to join their teams. One way to approach this question is to thoroughly explore their websites, study their keywords and key phrases, identify how they define their culture and describe their people, and explore their company's mission of "connecting people" and "uniting the world." Then figure out how you uniquely align with their culture and brand. Once you have determined this, you'll be prepared to answer this question effectively and sincerely.

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

Answer Example

"I see that your job description requests organized and honest candidates who are guided by integrity and driven by creating a memorable travel experience for our customers. These skills are at the top of my list, but in addition to these, I am a proven leader and can work well under pressure."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

6.   How do you manage your work life balance?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Considering that many of the positions require extra hours, especially when flight attendants are frequently away from home for days at a time, a life in the airline industry can often put an extra strain on one's personal life. Your interviewer needs to assess how prone you would be to burning out on the job or whether you would thrive in such a lifestyle. They also aim to determine what measures you take to balance your work life and your personal life, preventing one from negatively impacting the other.

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

What You Need to Know

United advertises that they invest in helping their employees with their work-life balance. But they want to ensure you are willing to make an equal contribution to ensuring your professional and personal life are balanced as well. "Your physical and emotional wellness is our top priority. You have the opportunity to join social, athletic, or activity clubs around the world, or even start your own. You never know where your adventures may take you or the connections you'll make."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

Experienced Example

"I make friends wherever I am. A personal goal of mine is to be as cultured as I possibly can be. I accomplish this goal by making friends everywhere, globally. Part of maintaining my balance is by feeling at home wherever I am in the world. So if I fly somewhere on the job and am there for a few days, that gives me more time to spend with my global family."

Written by Kevin Downey on September 1st, 2023

7.   Where do you see yourself five years from now?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your recruiter is looking for candidates who have identified opportunities within their company and are interested in furthering the development rather than cruising along at the status quo. As they state online, "We continuously encourage professional development based on your interests and skills. No matter where you are on your journey, United has a path tailored to support your dreams."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

What You Need to Know

Interviewing and onboarding is a costly and time-consuming process for any company or hiring manager. Therefore, when narrowing down their ideal candidate from their "talent community," they want to ensure whomever they consider choosing will prove a worthy investment, contributing to employee retention. Simply assuring your interviewer you're seeking a long-term fit won't have much value unless your answer is actionable. This means showcasing that you have put in the work to prepare for your interview, start your onboarding before you are hired, and explore all the career growth options within the company. Your expressed interest in growth opportunities will solidify the fact that you are, indeed, seeking a long-term fit with them.

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"I am looking for a long-term fit in my next position. As you can see, I had strong progress and career growth in my previous company. I would love to see the same success with your company. I did notice on your website that you have global leadership opportunities. If I could work my way into a role like that, I would be thrilled."

Written by Rachelle Enns

2nd Answer Example

"It's impossible to know where I'll be in five years, but given the opportunity, I'd prefer to see myself as a long-term fit for this position. Ideally, five years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals, so I see a great long-term fit here."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

8.   Why United?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

Your interviewer wants to know why you identified United Airlines as a good fit for you. How you answer will tell them whether you are a good fit for them. Whether you feel your personality is a good match for their culture and work environment or their values align with your character, the aim is to detail how you and United are a good match for each other.

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

What You Need to Know

So much of your interview prep is determining how you feel you are the perfect fit for them, and they, for you. Therefore, it is integral to research both the company and yourself to determine with sincerity how you two align. So examine what makes them who they are. For example, in the 1960s, United Airlines coined the slogan 'Fly the Friendly Skies.' A few years ago, they relaunched that slogan, along with some new ones, such as "Connecting people, Uniting the world." They advertise that "there's never been a more exciting time to join United Airlines! We're on a path towards becoming the best airline in the history of aviation and have made huge strides in the areas of employee engagement, customer service and experience, environmental sustainability and diversity, equity and inclusion." Do these priorities sound like yours?

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my colleagues and supervisor would say the same about me. I love connecting with people, and there seems no better place to connect with the world than in the friendly skies."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

2nd Answer Example

"I am confident, friendly, and a go-getter. I am interested in growing with a growing company, and it seems like an exciting time, in this regard, to join United."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

9.   If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?

What You Need to Know

This is a question aimed at determining how satisfied you are with your career of choice. Answering by sharing hindsight, and alternate paths you could have taken to have reached your goals sooner, suggests professional and personal growth and development. Whereas detailing an entirely different career choice, field, or industry is more likely to suggest you regret choosing the career you are trapped in, and would switch careers if you could. Such a response would serve as a red flag for your interviewer, who would conclude you are potentially burned out, and would not perform as well as someone who loved their career and was interested in furthering their growth with this opportunity. When answering this question, consider the first tagline you see when you visit their careers page, "A career is a journey, take yours further."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

1st Experienced Example

"I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career; however, if I had to start over in a new direction completely I would be interested in becoming a pilot. Both of my parents were pilots, and they seemed to have a very fulfilling career. I enjoy coaching and leading others so, any tasks in my current career that related to these skills, are very welcome."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

2nd Experienced Example

"I would take the same direction! I love what I do, and wouldn't change a thing. I've always wanted to learn more about what they do in flight control, and would like to visit a flight control tower, but that's just a curiosity. I have nothing but passion for this industry, which offers excitement and fulfillment to my life."

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

10.   How does this position fit into your career goals?

What You Need to Know

Your interviewer is curious why you want to work for United Airlines over another airline. They're not interested in recruiting just any qualified candidate; they want someone who feels like an ideal fit to represent their brand to their customers. How you answer this question will inform them whether you identified something unique that United Airlines has to offer your career and whether you would potentially contribute to their employee retention versus attrition. Explore the value propositions they advertise on their careers site, of which there are many. For example, they advertise that they are growing as a company, "In the years ahead, we'll hire tens of thousands of people across every area of the airline. Our careers include a one-of-a-kind place to work. Are you ready to travel the world?"

Written by Kevin Downey on August 27th, 2023

1st Answer Example

"My primary goal in my career as a flight attendant is to become a senior team member and eventually train others in the airline industry. I feel that what United Airlines offers is a strong path towards those goals, and I am excited about what this position has to offer."

Written by Rachelle Enns

2nd Answer Example

"This position offers the next steps in my career and the growth that I am ready for. I have spent the last couple of years attending additional coursework to get me here, and I'm excited to show United Airlines what I can do!"

Written by Rachelle Enns

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