30 Airlines Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Airlines interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. At Company ABC, exceptional customer service is our priority. How will you ensure that our service standards are continually met?
How to Answer
If you are familiar with Company ABC prior to your interview, you will likely know a little bit about their goals when it comes to customer service. Tie in your knowledge of the company with your personal service standard.
1st Answer Example
"I understand through my research and exposure to your company that customers always come first. I wholeheartedly agree that the customer must be taken care of, even beyond their expectations."
2nd Answer Example
"I will ensure that your customer service standards are continually met by following your service protocols, exactly. I am always willing to lend a hand, and am a happy person, which creates a positive environment for customers."
2. Tell me about any airline related training that you have been through.
How to Answer
Regardless of any industry related training that you have been through, you will need to complete training specific to Company ABC.
If you do not have any industry-specific training, perhaps you have training that would be transferable to this role (IE: Sales, Safety, Customer Service, Technical, etc). Walk the interviewer through any on-the-job training you feel would be helpful.
1st Answer Example
"I have taken industry-related safety and customer service training with company ABC. In addition to this training, I have four years of industry experience."
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have not taken specific airline related training, I do have some current certifications that I believe will be helpful. These include CPR, First Aid, and WHMIS training."
3. Do you have any formal training in First Aid or CPR?
How to Answer
First Aid and CPR training is a requirement for many roles in the airline industry. Assure the interviewer that you have current and valid certification in CPR and First Aid. If you do not, be sure to express your willingness to do so.
1st Answer Example
"I do not currently hold a valid CPR and First Aid certification; however, I am happy to complete this requirement right away."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I have formal training in First Aid and CPR. I have brought my certifications here for you to see."
4. Have you received training on how to handle an in-flight emergency?
How to Answer
If an in-flight emergency occurred, would you know what to do? Assure the interviewer that you are confident in your ability to handle an emergency situation in a professional manner. If you are new to the industry and do not have the related training, be honest about that and comment on any other training you've completed, that may be relevant or helpful.
1st Answer Example
"In my role with Company ABC, I received over 100 hours of in-flight situational training. I am confident in my ability to react professionally and appropriately in an emergency situation."
2nd Answer Example
"As I am new to a career in the airline industry, I have not received in-flight emergency training; however, I have taken emergency response training in my current position at the hospital. I am confident in my ability to react professionally and appropriately in an emergency situation, and I look forward to taking the in-flight training with Company ABC."
5. As a Flight Attendant, you will be asked to work a wide range of hours and a lot of overtime. Are you able to accommodate the unpredictable schedule associated with being a Flight Attendant?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are aware of the inconsistent schedule associated with being a Flight Attendant. Use examples if you have some experiences to draw on.
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. This is part of the lifestyle of a Flight Attendant, I completely understand. I'm happy to work any hours that are offered to me."
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."
6. In order to work for Company ABC you are required to pass a criminal record check. Are you comfortable accommodating this?
How to Answer
A clean criminal record is a must for all airline related roles. You must be able to pass the criminal background check and may even be asked to present one in your interview. Your answer can be short and to the point.
1st Answer Example
"You will find that I have a clean criminal background. I'm willing to participate in any background check that you require."
2nd Answer Example
"I am able to complete a full criminal background check as well as any drug testing, or other background checks that you require."
7. Aside from your experience working in the airline industry, do you have experience in other customer service based roles?
How to Answer
Discus with the interviewer your experience working in customer service based roles. Take them through your resume and highlight your customer service skills.
1st Answer Example
"I started working at a young age in a restaurant as a server. From there, I moved into a restaurant management role and also attended post-secondary education with a focus on Restaurant and Hotel management. Most of what I've done has been customer service focused."
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to my career so this will be my first customer service based role. I do have volunteer experience with the local Food Bank which gave me valuable exposure to working with the public, and collaborating with a team."
8. Employees of Company ABC are expected to be reliable, on time, and accessible when on shift. Do you consider yourself to be a dedicated employee?
How to Answer
Provide examples to the interviewer on times when you have shown dedication on the job. Assure the hiring manager that you possess the qualities and characteristics they are looking for.
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position I was often recognized for being flexible with my availability. I believe in being 10 minutes early for work. I come with very strong references who will be happy to speak to you about my reliability and dedication on the job."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very dedicated, and would show my appreciation for the role by being a reliable team member of Company ABC."
9. Why are you the best choice for Company ABC?
How to Answer
What makes you the best candidate for Company ABC? Talk to the interviewer about what makes you a stand out candidate for this role. Be sure to discuss unique skills and characteristics that will make you a memorable candidate.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that I am the top candidate for Company ABC because I already bring 5 years of industry experience. My customer service skills are unmatched and I am fluent in 3 languages which allows me to communicate smoothly with a large range of customers."
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see, I am invested in this interview process with Company ABC, and will bring this same level of dedication to you if I am hired. You won't be disappointed."
10. All employees of Company ABC are expected to wear a uniform to work. Are you comfortable with this policy?
How to Answer
Uniforms can be a controversial discussion in many organizations; however, in the airline industry uniform use is more common than not. Discuss with the interviewer your experience working in uniform and your willingness to abide by the dress code within Company ABC.
1st Answer Example
"
2nd Answer Example
"Uniforms are very important in this industry so, yes, I am comfortable with this policy. I would love to see the uniforms before I fully commit, of course."
11. As a Flight Attendant, you are responsible for ensuring that the safety of all passengers is a priority. What would you do if you felt there was a safety threat?
How to Answer
Airlines will always have strict safety protocols. Talk to the interviewer about how you would react in a situation where you felt safety was at risk.
1st Answer Example
"My reaction to a safety threat would rely on my on-the-job training. I would want to make sure that I follow company protocol and safety regulations. I believe that if I were faced with a safety threat, I would do everything to ensure passengers remained calm."
2nd Answer Example
"I am well trained on how to react in urgent, distressed, and mayday situations. In any emergency my first course of action is to ensure the passengers are prepared."
12. List the top 3 skills that will make you an ideal team member at Company ABC.
How to Answer
When you are asked to list your top skills, it's best to tie in your rock-star skills with the requests listed in the company's job description. Which skills do you possess that are the most helpful for this role with Company ABC?
1st Answer Example
"I see that your job description requests candidate who are organized, honest, and driven by customer satisfaction. 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."
2nd Answer Example
Try to include a variety of words that the interviewer does not hear all the time. Be unique! Here are some ideas:
- Adaptable
- Considerate
- Diligent
- Intuitive
- Persistent
- Resourceful
- Sincere
- Witty
13. What do you hope to gain most from your time with Company ABC?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you are wholeheartedly interested in working for Company ABC. What are your hopes and expectations from your time with Company ABC? Talk to the interviewer about the ways you feel you would benefit from this position.
1st Answer Example
"After reviewing the culture and mission of Company ABC, I feel that I would be able to find a long term fit here and that is most important to me. Your training programs are industry renowned and well respected which is also interesting to me."
2nd Answer Example
"What I hope to gain most by working with Company ABC is an unmatched level of training and expertise in the airline industry. Your company is well known for its second-to-none training."
14. The airline industry is full of unexpected scenarios. When have you faced an unexpected difficulty?
How to Answer
How you face unexpected difficulty can say a lot about your character. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have faced an unexpected difficulty. How did you handle the situation?
1st Answer Example
"The biggest difficulty that I have faced was my unexpected lay off during the last recession. I had to adapt to a new economy and search deep for other skills and opportunities. I was able to earn enough to avoid financial strain and am quite proud of my ability to be versatile when required."
2nd Answer Example
"I face unexpected difficulty frequently in my current position. The company is in financial strain and some days we are not able to deliver the customer experience that we should. I overcome this by giving everything I have when it comes to service. I strive to leave a good impression."
15. When have you had to shift your priorities in response to sudden changes?
How to Answer
Have you been asked to change your priorities on a dime? How do you react to this kind of shift in priorities? Assure the interviewer that you are able to respond in a professional manner when it comes to sudden changes.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, our schedule is changed on a regular basis and always at short notice. I have been able to adapt very well to these frequent, sudden changes."
2nd Answer Example
"The airline industry is full of sudden changes, most frequently, when flight times are changed. This affects everyone's schedule when it happens. I am able to roll with the punches and understand that I need to respond positively and swiftly when sudden changes are made."
16. How does this position fit into your career goals?
How to Answer
Is this particular position a good fit? Is it a step up in your career or - a stagnant move that you are just complacent with taking until something better comes along? Assure the interviewer that this position will be challenging for you, is a step up in responsibilities, and that it fits with your overall career goals.
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 Company ABC offers is a strong path towards those goals and I am excited about what this position has to offer."
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 Company ABC what I can do!"
17. If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?
How to Answer
A hiring manager will be able to tell a lot about your personality by learning about your other career interests. If you could do anything over, what would you do, and why?
1st Answer Example
"I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career; however, if I had to completely start over in a new direction I would likely pursue my Degree in Education and become a teacher. Both of my parents were teachers 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."
2nd Answer Example
"I would take the same direction! I love what I do, and wouldn't change a thing. This industry brings a lot of excitement and fulfillment to my life."
18. How do you get along with others at work?
How to Answer
Think about your relationships with coworkers, past and present. Which ones were healthy? What were the dynamics of those working relationships? Think about what you enjoyed about some of your relationships with past coworkers. Good communication, sense of humor and support are all great qualities that make co-working relationships fun.
1st Answer Example
"I get along great with my coworkers. I try to maintain a positive attitude and be supportive, whether I am offering to assist someone who is overwhelmed, or if I am taking time to listen to someone who is having a bad day."
2nd Answer Example
"I put a lot of effort into my relationships with my coworkers. I believe that harmonious relationships in the workplace are important for the happiness of everyone as well as for productivity levels."
19. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
1st Answer Example
"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills."
2nd Answer Example
"Communication is very important in the airline industry. I would rate my communication skills as a 7 out of 10 because there is always room for improvement. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything. Communication needs to run smoothly, both ways."
20. Personality fit is important to us at Company ABC. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
Personality and character are two very different things. The interviewer is looking for more information on your personal traits vs. your integrity. This would include buzz words such as introverted, energetic, and confident.
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."
2nd Answer Example
"I am confident, friendly, and a go-getter. Are these personality traits that you are looking for in your next hire?"
21. What work situations excite and motivate you?
How to Answer
It is important, for your success, that the hiring manager knows how to keep you motivated and excited to come to work every day. Share with the interviewer what they could do to ensure that you are happy and productive.
1st Answer Example
"I am most motivated, on the job, when tasks are organized and the vibe is positive. I really value strong teamwork and good leadership."
2nd Answer Example
"I am most motivated on the job when I feel like an active contributor and an important member of the team. When I feel listened to and valued, I am excited to do my best work."
22. Tell me about a time when communication became an issue when working on a team.
How to Answer
Give an example of a time you when you couldn't seem to explain what you needed from other team members or, talk about how one of your team members couldn't communicate effectively. Be sure to include what the overall outcome was of the situation, and what you did to repair the communication issue.
1st Answer Example
"I worked on a team to solve a problem that could have potential affects on our ability to grow the business and reach our goals. Each person on the team was tasked with a different aspect, such as gathering data and analyzing it. We came together to discuss the results but couldn't seem to come to an agreement. We were struggling to listen to each person's opinion. I explained my observation, and I suggested we give each person a chance to talk through their findings and opinions, which helped us take a more collaborative approach."
2nd Answer Example
"My current company recently went through a merger which has caused a lack of communication between the team because people are flooded by thoughts of job security. I made a suggestion to my department head that we have a team building event. Gathering everyone together to remind them that we are still a team was very helpful."
23. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000 and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
2nd Answer Example
"Although my current salary is $45K/year, I am seeking $52K in my next position. Because I work for a very small organization, they are not able to offer me a competitive compensation compared to the industry marketplace."
24. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with setbacks in the workplace.
Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"
25. Think about a difficult boss, professor or coworker. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you work well with most personalities even though you recognize there are some folks out there who are quite difficult to please.
Think about that one person at work who is seen as hard to please. Perhaps there is someone at work who tries to intimidate others. Talk to the interviewer about what made this person challenging and what their relationship was to you. Avoid speaking poorly of anyone and be sure to end your response on a positive note.
Answer Example
"I once worked at a locally owned shop where the owner was very demanding. When the owner would walk into the store, employees would announce over their headset system that the owner was in the building, so that everyone could be prepared for his entrance into their department. The owner had great intentions; however, his people skills were a little rough. I could see that he meant well, and I recognized that he wanted to do a lot of good things. When we interacted, I always took his feedback with the understanding that he didn't mean things as harshly as he might say them."
26. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
How to Answer
It's impossible to know where you will be in 5 years but do assure the interviewer that, given all possible circumstances, you could see yourself as a long term fit for their position.
Answer Example
"Ideally, 5 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 which helps me to see a great long term fit here."
27. What experience do you have using team-based messaging applications?
How to Answer
There are many options for communication software and messaging applications. Give the interviewer a brief overview of the applications you are experienced in and assure them that you can learn their internal system, should it be new to you.
Answer Example
"I have used a variety of team based messaging applications. I am best versed in Brosix, AOL Instant Messenger, and Freedcamp. No matter which system you use I am sure that I can pick it up very quickly."
28. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple tasks at hand?
How to Answer
When you feel torn between multiple projects or tasks, how do you decide which one needs your attention the most? Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent when it comes to assessing your priorities.
Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the amount of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline."
29. How will you earn the trust of your coworkers?
How to Answer
Workplace relationships are important to nurture. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to earn the trust of your new co-workers, should you be offered the position.
Answer Example
"I feel that the best way to earn the trust of my co-workers is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles."
30. What unique qualities about yourself would you bring to our company?
How to Answer
There are some things that your resume cannot do. Showing off your great personality is one of them, for instance! Talk to the interviewer about some of your unique qualities and be sure to tie these qualities into how they will benefit the company, should they hire you.
Answer Example
"I have a unique ability to strike up conversation and build rapport with nearly anyone. This is a great help when it comes to customer service and sales. My up-selling percentages are always very high."