“So You Want to Be Cabin Crew? Let’s Talk About What It’s Really Like”
- Helen Williams
- Oct 16
- 2 min read
Hey, future flyer.
If you’re here, you’ve probably caught yourself daydreaming about glamorous layovers, perfectly pressed uniforms, and jetting off to new cities every week. Maybe you’ve even stalked a few crew Instagrams (we’ve all done it) But before you start picturing yourself sipping coffee in Dubai or shopping in New York on a Tuesday, let’s get real about what being cabin crew actually involves — and how to make it happen without losing your sparkle.
☀️ The Dream vs The Reality
Yes, there are moments that feel straight out of a movie. Watching the sunrise above the clouds? Unreal. Bonding with your crew at 3 a.m. in a random airport? Priceless.But being cabin crew isn’t just about travel and cute photos. It’s also about discipline, teamwork, and a whole lot of hard work behind the curtain.
Here’s the truth:
You’ll be tired. The early starts and time zones can knock you sideways.
You’ll be sore. Your feet, your back, your smile muscles.
You’ll deal with every type of passenger imaginable — from angels to absolute chaos gremlins.
You’ll also experience moments of pure magic that make it all worth it.
The key? Know what you’re signing up for and prepare for it properly.
💡 What Airlines (and DollyCrew) Look For
At DollyCrew.co.uk, we always say: airlines hire for attitude first, skills second. They can teach you to pour tea and secure a door, but they can’t teach you kindness, patience, or self-awareness.
Here’s what matters most:
What They Want | Why It Matters |
Professionalism | You represent the airline. You’re the face of the brand, even when exhausted. |
Team Spirit | You don’t fly solo — the crew dynamic is everything. |
Communication Skills | You need to calm, explain, reassure — sometimes under pressure. |
Resilience | Delays, jetlag, and chaos happen. Stay calm, stay kind. |
Cultural Awareness | You’ll meet the world — literally. Respect and open-mindedness go far. |
If you tick those boxes (or can develop them), you’re already halfway there.
✨ How to Get Started
Polish Your CVFocus on customer service experience — retail, hospitality, healthcare, anything people-facing.Keep it clean, confident, and concise.
Research AirlinesEach one has a different vibe. Emirates loves elegance; Ryanair prizes efficiency; Virgin goes for personality.Show you get their brand.
Practice InterviewsDollyCrew offers practice sessions and interview coaching — seriously, it helps.Confidence comes from preparation.
Invest in PresentationGrooming isn’t about being model-perfect; it’s about looking neat, alert, and professional.
Stay Fit (Mentally & Physically)This job requires stamina, patience, and positivity — even at 5 a.m. on your third sector.
❤️ The Bottom Line
Being cabin crew isn’t just a job — it’s a lifestyle.It’ll challenge you, change you, and introduce you to a version of yourself you didn’t know existed.
If you’re ready to serve, smile, and soar, start with DollyCrew.co.uk.And for a peek into the real side of crew life (with some laughs along the way), follow me on TikTok — @realhlw.
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