What does it cost to become a flight attendant?
The time has come for you to start your training to become a flight attendant and you are wondering how much it will cost. This article provides an overview of the expenses to consider before becoming a flight attendant.
A bill that can quickly escalate
To become a PNC (Commercial Aircrew) in the airline industry, it can cost several thousand euros, especially to join the uniform of a French company. Here is an overview of the expenses to plan for before you start flying.
Facing the cabin crew medical visit ( for french airlines only )
Before you can apply for an air hostess advertisement, you will be required to have the class 2 medical examination up to date.
To carry out this visit, it will be necessary to go to one of the medical centers or doctors approved by the DGAC. Depending on the choice, the cost can reach 400 euros for specialized centers such as Clamart in Paris. This cost is not reimbursed by social security. It is however possible to reduce the costs by going through a registered general practitioner but some may refuse because the examination takes time and is not profitable for them. Regardless of the location chosen, you will be examined from head to toe to ensure good physical condition, including vision checks, an ENT check-up, a cardiological check-up, etc.
The Cabin Crew Attestation (CCA): Holy Grail for hostesses
The Cabin Crew Attestation (CCA) is a compulsory diploma to practice as a crew member. It is provided by schools approved by the government, with a cost of between 2000 and 3000 euros
depending on the school chosen. The training includes theoretical and practical tests over several weeks. Some schools may inflate rates with unnecessary modules.
And don't forget the additional costs!
As you can see, the total cost to become a steward or flight attendant can easily reach 4000 euros. Don't forget to include ancillary costs such as accommodation if the training takes place in another city or the cost of transport to get to the practical exam. Count around 5000 euros to "see the big picture", especially if you did not pass the exams the first time and have to pay registration fees again. However, there is another way to become a cabin crew for less.
Aim for foreign companies!
Except if you only want to work for French airlines, there are indeed ways to become an air hostess for free or almost.
Many foreign airlines, mainly low-cost such as Volotea, Ryanair and EasyJet, will gladly recruit you and train you in-house to obtain the Certificate of Commercial Flight Crew (CCA).
But where is the wolf? There are not any ! I explain everything to you, keep calm. 😊
What about English? ( if you are not British )
Recruitment is almost exclusively in English. If your level of English is not sufficient, you will probably fail the first test (often an English test). So you will quickly know if you are suitable for the position.
What about the medical visit?
Once recruited, your contract will be subject to the success of your medical visit. Each company has licensed doctors to whom they will refer you. If you are in good health, it will only be a formality.
What about the CCA???
As I stated before, airlines will usually train you in-house for about a month. This training, similar to that provided in schools, will allow you to become an air hostess and realize your dream. Once you have passed the exam (be careful, it is very intensive!), you can apply to all airlines. 🤟
Free with a reward
Obviously, companies, like EasyJet, will not train you to see you then leave with the diploma in your pocket. Indeed, to ensure "a return on investment", they will ask you for compensation if you opt for internal training. This can take the form of a loyalty obligation over a given period or a deduction from wages for a certain period. But then you will have a contract and a start of experience, which is the most important thing.
In conclusion
As you know by now, there are several ways to become a hostess/steward. Choose wisely to avoid disappointment, especially if it involves a significant financial cost.
Regarding in-house training, although it could be seen as working for a foreign company rather than a national one, the conditions of employment in foreign companies, even low-cost ones, are comparable to those of traditional companies. On the contrary, they offer an international experience and an improvement in your level of English if you are not an native speaker.
