My Former Life as a Flight Attendant
Vacation Plans
One phone call that changed my life forever came as I was about to graduate from cosmetology school. I had a job lined up at a salon where I worked part-time as a receptionist and was eager to become a hair stylist, when I took a few days off to visit family in Fort Worth.
One of my regular customers at beauty school heard I was heading to Texas and asked if I would call her daughter while I was there. At the time, long distance calls were expensive. Only local calls were free. When she handed me her daughter's business card with the phone number, I tucked it into my pocket and gave it little thought.
Training on Board the Aircraft
The Phone Call
Once I settled in with the family in Texas, I gave the daughter a ring. It turned out, she was an executive in Flight Attendant services. She was happy to hear news about her mother in Florida and we had a nice phone visit during which I mentioned I had always wanted to work as a flight attendant.
She told me that they were currently recruiting for flight attendants, and although she wasn't allowed to interview me, she would ask someone to give me a call, although, she couldn't promise anything.
I thought that would be the end of it until the phone rang at my Mom's house.
The call was from Flight Attendant staffing, asking if I was available for an interview the next day. Of course I said yes. That started a flurry of activity looking for an outfit to wear other than my vacation clothes. It was a memorable day with my Mom in downtown Fort Worth.
The next day, I borrowed the car and headed to the airport. Weaving my way through the confusing twists and turns of the huge facility, I managed to find the building and a good parking spot. As I headed for the door, I could feel my makeup withering in the sweltering summer heat.
Down the Spine of a 747
During the interview, I was questioned on my work history and the reasons I wanted to be a flight attendant. They asked what would make me a better flight attendant than someone else, what does a flight attendant do along with a barrage of other questions designed to evaluate personality and suitability for the job.
Despite my nervousness, I thought the interview went okay.
DFW Airport - A few hours after I got back home, the phone rang again with an invitation to a group interview. A panel of pilots, senior flight attendants and training instructors would interview several applicants at the same time. If we made it to the finals, we would have individual interviews following the group session.
There was an advantage to not being chosen first to answer a question. We learned from the reactions of the panel not to say, "I want to be a flight attendant because I love people." They were sick of hearing that. The challenge was coming up with something original to say after others already answered the same question. When the group session finished, I was chosen for an individual interview after which I resumed my vacation.
That's when I got another call.
The Last Call
This call changed all my plans going forward. The friendly voice on the phone said I'd been selected to attend Flight Attendant Training starting in one month. When my vacation was over, I flew back to Florida. Until the offer letter arrived with the date to report for training, I could hardly believe this happened. It was like a dream where I didn't want to wake up.
Flight Training on the Emergency Slide
Miles from Home
Over the next weeks, I finished the remaining hours of beauty school, quit my job at the salon, sold most of my belongings and packed my car for the trip, leaving behind friends and my home state of Florida.
Heading up Florida, I stopped in Pensacola where I took my State Board Exam for my Cosmetology license and stayed in town only the one night. My roommate agreed to come with me that far to serve as my hair model. She flew home after the exam was over while I continued the twelve-hundred mile trip to Dallas alone.
Braniff Fact Sheet
Did you ever fly aboard Braniff International Airways?
Rejections in the Past
When I was twenty-one, I had filled in an application with Eastern Airlines, hopeful for an interview. At that time, most airlines didn't accept married applicants and they sent me a letter of rejection. Things changed and I applied again a couple of years later. This time, they sent a round trip ticket to Miami along with an interview date. It took a few weeks before another rejection letter came in the mail.
At twenty-five, I applied with Northwest Orient Airlines and was scheduled with an interview in Minneapolis, Minnesota in the middle of winter. They explained that only thirty spots were available for flight attendants and they were reviewing eight hundred applicants. We were rushed through the interview process and told they would let us know. A few weeks afterward, another rejection letter arrived.
Flight Attendant Training
During the five-week training course, we lived in The Royal Dunfey's Hotel in Dallas in shared rooms. After breakfast each morning, we were bused to the training facility on Lemon Avenue where we listened to lectures, practiced emergency drills and CPR. We learned the different codes used between the cockpit and crew and trained making announcements.
We jumped out of second story windows onto scorching hot evacuation slides, practiced using fire extinguishers on real fires and fumbled our way through dark airplanes locating safety equipment. We trained to open window hatches and the door of a 747 five stories above the ground.
"Again!" the emergency procedures instructor would yell as we practiced pulling the emergency hatch off the mock up airplane.
"Now toss that hatch on the seat and move those passengers along."
Rookie Flight Crew
Preparing for the Final Exam
We spent hours practicing airline announcements, reading them from our manuals as required by the FAA. We worked in galley mock-ups learning how to use convection ovens and coffee makers. We served seven-course dinners on real dishes and glassware. We trained for a week on bartending skills learning cocktails and how to serve wine and make Cappuccino.
At night we studied our training manuals and memorized configurations for the fleet of Braniff jets. We formed groups and quizzed each other on airport codes and their abbreviations. We practiced and role played for hours, but it was nothing like serving on board a flight with real passengers.
On Board the Aircraft
Flight Schedules
Our travel assignments were based on seniority or the length of time we had with the airline. Each month we bid on different schedules that were available. Some flight attendants had fifteen years or more with the company. The schedules with only five trips to Hawaii during the month usually went to them.
Newbies like us had little seniority and usually won a schedule flying as a reserve. This type of schedule had nine specified days off during the month with the rest of the time serving on twenty-four hour call. The scheduling department could assign us a trip with as little as a one hour notice to fill in for absent employees or those delayed by mechanical difficulties on a previous flight. We had to be ready to fly out at a moment's notice and kept a packed suitcase handy.
Despite the unusual hours, the waiting by the phone, the meal service on back-to-back commuter flights and the rigors of standing hours at a time, the job was a lot of fun. I'll always remember those days as some of the best of my life.
From Braniff Flight Attendant - Sandy Bentley Moore
© 2009 Peg Cole
Comments
Loved it. And yes, those were the days, my friend -- but they did end. Today you'd be throwing a quick bag of peanuts at the uncomfortable travellers crammed into their far too small economy seats. There is no glamor and elegance left in today's world for most of us.
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You're right there lmmartin! Only there are no more peanuts unless you buy them or bring them along. In June when I flew to FL they announced the end of cash as well. If you want a snack or a meal you have to use a credit card. What is the world coming to?
Thank you so much for stopping by to read and comment! I enjoy reading your hubs.
You can bring peanuts on board an airplane ? Wow, when did that happen ? The last time I flew in a plane, long-haul, was in 1984 to Europe. We had all kinds of yummy food, snacks, beverages and even pillows and blankets. I mean I really enjoyed that first and only long-haul experience. Thank you so much for sharing your experience proving, in there own time, dreams do manifest in our waking lives and we can enjoy the rewards.
sharing the light,
miss erica hidvegi
the Enlightenment Advisor
Nice one Peg .... No doubt, a flight attendant's job is a tough one. But it helps you so much in facing all of life, no matter what it throws at you and when ... always with a smile, with consideration and compassion for others, and also with self confidence and courage.
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Hi enlightenedpsych2 - Wow, if you haven't flown since the 80s you're in for a few surprises. In most cases on domestic flights there are no meals served, except in first class. Coach passengers still get beverages free but snacks may be purchased at $3-4 using credit cards only on some airlines. Most passengers bring fast food on board from the restaurants beyond the security checkpoints.
Since you can't bring liquids through security in quantities greater than a few ounces it makes traveling quite different. A one-quart zip lock bag is your limit for items like toothpaste, shampoo, make-up and must fit inside the bag to pass through security.
Thanks for sharing your international experience. Yep, we used to offer pillows, blankets, playing cards, crayons and more, along with second coffees and free cappucino. The grand old days.
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Jaspal, The long hours can be tough but the experiences of traveling to different cities and entering new worlds, meeting a variety of people balances it out. Thanks so much for taking time to comment.
Thank you for sharing your experiences with us PegCole17. I had a desire to be an air stewardess in my youthful days, but I am glad I did not have that desire as an adult. Flying is not what it used to be. I am sure you have had some rewarding experiences. Have you ever had any regrets about choosing the career?
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Hello Create a page.
My biggest regret? That I did not stick it out and make it a career. After all the years of wishing, hoping and waiting, I became discouraged after an injury, quit the airlines and returned to Florida to an old flame. Nope it wasn't true love. :(
"Regrets? I've had a few. But then again, too few to mention."
Sorry you didn't get to experience the airlines. I'm sure you had some fascinating adventures of your own.
Lovely adventure you have here... Peg wow you have one of the greatest job on earth and I think that was a great blessing... Keep Hubbing Peg and Im looking forward reading them...
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Thanks GeneralHowitzer. So long ago . . . Yes, I'm truly grateful that I had this opportunity. Ahhhh, Memories . . .
Peg, this was very intersting to read and photos were fantastic. In the past, becoming a flight attendant or air hostess was a dream job but now opportunities has increased manifold with so many airlines operating and perks (to employees) and facilities (to passengers) has decreased that has made the job less lucrative. But getting such a glamorous job is still something great to feel/experience.
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True, this used to be a dream job. I never imagined the airlines would change so much over the years. Thanks so much for reading and taking the time to comment, premsingh. I love reading your hubs.
I used to think that being a flight attendant would be a glamorous job. They were called stewardesses back in the day :)
It's interesting how things have changed over the years. I took a flight a few years ago but my last international flight was 1982. Man that makes me feel old. Taking one this month so I will get to see first hand some of the many changes that have taken place. Thankfully, even though it is an international flight, it is only 1 hour. Here's hoping the weather holds.
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Duchess, Hope your flight is a pleasant one. You will be in for a few surprises. Be sure to wear slip on shoes since you'll have to take them off at security, along with your jacket, metal jewelry and your belt, just to be sure you don't set off the alarm and get pulled aside for personal frisking. When I travelled as a project manager I seemed to get frisked (or wanded) a lot. You never get used to it.
I never minded being called a stewardess, but like the term secretary it fell out of fashion. Can't figure that one out except for the male admins who may not like it. Oh well.
Thanks so much for commenting and reading. As always, it's a pleasure to hear from you. p
Hi PegCole17
I know your work must have had lots of un-glamourous moments, but it still must have been so exciting, and what a great experience. It makes you sit and think sometimes about how our lives can be taken down another route because of a chance meeting. What would we have done if we hadn't met whoever. It's a bit like "Sliding Doors". I met Alan in Majorca, and if I hadn't gone there at that particular time, I wouldn't have. Then I'd never have moved to Belfast, and would have stayed in Felixstow,and what ifs and maybes. Makes you think though.
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Pastella13, so right you are, much of the work is repetitive and unglamorous, which was a stark realization once training was done. Still it was something I had always wanted to do and thankful that the opportunity finally presented itself. Otherwise I would always have wondered.
You're right also about chance meetings, which was the gist of what I was trying to say here. If we open our awareness things sometimes present themselves unexpectedy. Thanks for your astute observation and for sharing your experiences.
Dear Cole : Thank you for sharing such a memorable time in your life. It took so much courage for you to brave all those wonderful horizons. You were like the baby bird leaving the nest to strengthen your wings in the mighty Heavens. Jets and air ships, they are such formidable wonders. The beauty of modern minds that create the great eagles of the great ships of the sky. A wonderful Hub. God Bless You
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Dear stars439, Thanks for reading this memoir of days gone by. Now that I'm retired I have time to look back and remember things that flew by in my earlier life. Yes, flying was a real treat for me and I'll ever be grateful for even the short time I had that opportunity. GBY too stars.
Awesome! I am jealous of that chapter of your life - so much fun - thank you for sharing.
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GmaGoldie - Not entirely as much fun as most people think it is. True, a chapter that I wouldn't trade now that I'm mature (haha - old). From your picture, you look like you would meet the qualifications. I'm sure you've heard this before, Doris Day? Thanks for taking time to comment.
hi!
I found this hub really informative. I'm glad you have the hair stylist training; sounds as if it saved your professional life. I like to write about scoundrels in business too!
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Hi stephanie o, Thanks. The stylist license came back around in a different time when I was working my way through college. I was glad I kept it up after all. Still do after all these years!
Scoundrels in business? That sounds interesting. I'll have to check out your hub. Thanks for stopping in to read.
Thank you for sharing the wonderful story, it keeps dreams alive for others like you.
I am a 27year old Kenyan girl and i have always dreamed of being a flight attendant, unfortunately there are not too many opportunities for Africans. I do meet all requirements so i guess am going to keep applying and praying to get a breakthroigh.
Your story just restored my zeal and i will keep on trying no matter how many times am turned down.
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Hi Fiffs, I'm so grateful for your sweet comments. Thanks! You are a person with definite goals and direction and I love your optimism. All the best in your pursuit of being a flight attendant - keep trying - I hope one day the dream will come true for you. Sometimes an opportunity comes when you least expect it. Good luck to you.
Thanks Peg for the read. I love my flying career! I fly mostly international and we cook for the passengers. We still have pillows, blankets, playing cards, and toys for the kiddies.
I keep hearing and reading, "Where's the glamour?" and I can answer that! It's in the romance of getting paid to wake up in another country, have a day or two (if I'm really lucky 3)to play, shop, eat, and meet amazing people before working to another destination to repeat.
Ahhh, the life of a gypsy. It's amazing and it still makes me giddy!
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I love your name Leather or Feather. And I bet you've said "Chicken or Beef" a few times. I'm impressed that you are cooking in the air. Wow. Thanks so much for stopping by to read and comment.
You've restored my faith that there's still a little glamour in the skies. And it's wonderful to hear from someone who loves their work! Yeaaasaaa! True - waking up somewhere different, getting your bearings, scoping out some new places . . . what a life. Cheers, gypsy.
Oh, my! Your training is similar to our as sailors! Very rigid indeed! With all the code memorization, water and fire safety training...I almost back out.
When our joining port is at Texas or any other part of the US, our manning agency usually boarded us at KLM planes... cheap, affordable and with cool flight attendants. I never hear them whine because of long travel and they always give what the passengers have requested.
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Travel_man1971, I never considered the training as rigid but you're right. We definitely had to study and learn a great deal of info in a short time. Some of my best memories were the fun we had in our study groups and on our practice flights.
It's nice to hear a positive comment about the service provided by flight attendants. They work long hours, standing on their feet most of the time. But the rewards are really great.
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Travel_man1971, I never considered the training as rigid but you're right. We definitely had to study and learn a great deal of info in a short time. Some of my best memories were the fun we had in our study groups and on our practice flights.
It's nice to hear a positive comment about the service provided by flight attendants. They work long hours, standing on their feet most of the time. But the rewards are really great.
Hi Peg! I loved reading your story. I am a flight attendant for Delta Air Lines since 1997 and while the role has changed even since then, it is still exciting and fascinating. Sure, the work can be repetitive and some passengers not so nice, but even with a family and a second baby on the way, I make it work because I love it so! Thanks for sharing. God bless!
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Thanks for stopping in to read and comment, Betsy. I'll bet you have your share of stories to tell. Yes, the work is fascinating . . . never the same two days in a row. Congrats on your baby on the way! How exciting! I'm so glad to hear you love your work. God bless you too!
I used to fly commercial twice a week, but I no longer care to subject myself to being treated worse than a criminal (a cop cannot frisk a criminal without probable cause, but a high school drop-out, TSA agent can frisk anyone without probable cause!)
I will not pay substantial money to be treated like dirt from the time I set foot in the departure terminal until I exit the one at my destination.
I sure miss the good old days when flying was sheer pleasure.
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Yes Will, It is frustrating to be patted down and have people shuffle their (dirty) hands through your clean shirts. I traveled extensively on business after the 9 eleven events when the intense security was first put in place. It seems like I always got pulled from the line for a random check. Some of those folks liked using their "wands" a little too much. But each time I got where I was going and back home safely. And for that I'm thankful.
So glad you stopped in here to comment and thanks for reading my story. You're a good story teller Will.
Wow that Salon was a nice size.
I dated Barry Johnson and Randy Routan back in the days and both were pilots for Eastern.
My cousin Lynne was a ( stewardess ) Flight Attendent for Delta for 9 years I know back in those days becoming a Flight Attendant was no easy task.
I remember Lynne had a bit of a weight problem and because of it she had to weigh in before each flight and she actually got grounded for 3 months for being too overweight.
I also remember when she first started flying too. She always had to be made up perfectly just in case she got called.
Your story was a beautiful walk down memory lane. I loved it.
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Hi Mrs. J.B. - Yes, the salon was huge and popular. Our stylist divas competed in national events and were masters of the latest Pyramid, Bi-level, Wedges and blow back styles of the day. In the mid 70s we were among the first salons to locate in a shopping mall. When I left the airlines I went back there as a stylist.
Your cousin Lynne and I had similar troubles. I had to lose 5 pounds in 3 days or I wouldn't be allowed to graduate. Did it though. Wish I had stayed longer but I got injured.
I really appreciate you sharing your experiences and telling me about Lynne. Thanks so much.
I hope you write more stories about your flying days. I love reading them over and over.
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Thanks Mrs. J.B. - Love to remember the old days. . . ahhh memories, light the corner of my mind.
Awesome hub, hence the vote.
Life is really about who you know, I think the biggest changes in my life were because of who I knew and how they influenced my path. I also love the personal photos, nice touch!
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Hey there Brett,
Yes, when I think of it I realize that had I not met that woman's mother, my whole life might have been different. Of course, if we move a grain of sand. . .
Life is about who you know and how you respond to them. Thanks for your very thoughtful comments.
Peg
Great story. I really never thought about all the hassle involved in becoming a flight attendant. Seems like it would be a cool job though.
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Hello there DIY,
Some jobs are really worth pursuing. I would always have wondered about this career if I had never tried it.
Nice to see you here.
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Hello Hybridjohn, As much as I appreciate your very nice comment I'm sorry that I'm reluctant to publish comments with a link that takes people off the HubPages site. That can negatively affect hubs and bounce rate. I am so sorry. Please drop back in if you have time and thank you, once again.
Hi there Peg! I was just offered a job as a flight attendant and I happily accepted! I am 25 years old and graduating college in December. I realize that being a flight attendant nowadays is nothing like it used to be, but it has always been a dream of mine since I can remember. I knew I couldn't pass up this opportunity, and if I did, I'd regret it forever. I am definitely a bit scared and a little nervous because my life is about to change...big-time! I start training in January and that's when I'll find out what base I will be assigned to...on reserve, that is! :) I've read that a lot of people quit before making it a whole year. If I can stick it out long enough to gain some seniority, I think it would end up being a great career! Anyways, I just love coming across other people's experiences as a flight attendant. I'm so glad I stumbled upon your story! Thanks for sharing - and by the way, your pictures are great!
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Congratulations Jess! I'm so thrilled for you to start your new adventure and even more thankful that you will have completed your college degree soon. For that effort you will always be glad. I hope you'll come back to HubPages when you find time and write about your flight attendant training and your latest experiences when flying.
Yes, your life is about to change...big-time. But it will create memories that you will forever come back and relive in your mind. Look at me, forty some years later and I'm still reliving the glory days! Oh you will soon understand and I'm so happy for your and your new opportunity. Do well and come back soon to visit! Thank you so much for sharing your news here.
All the best to you,
Peg
Hi Peg! great to came across your blog. :)i have been reading articles to get myself notified the ups and downs of being a flight attendant and i'm prepared for all the downside of this job. There is another thing which is the future advancement.i know i can't return to the field that i have once studied. I'm not as young as 21 anymore as i just accept the offer and go work for a few years if i like it i can set it as my career to move further. but given my age, i need to think of the future after i quite flying after 5 years.
For any airline that i heard, its not easy to get a ground job, first you must be qualified second is whether that department have any jobs for you. i don't mind working as ground staff as i would like to contribute my talent and knowledge in the aviation industry as this is the industry that i interested in :) but do i stand any chance? and what position that are available for the ex- FA?
another question is for 4/5 years experience in being a flight attendant. to move on further to hospitality/ service industry or becoming a PR in any company. Will the experience to recognized, if it is recognized, is to what extant? for eg at the age of 30, one need to work from junior level again up to the managerial level?
Could you please enlighten and share with me more on the future? i know some people will start their own business is another option.but how about the others? where did they end up in?
thanks for spending time reading this and hope you could give some advice and correct me if i'm wrong.:)
my name is stacey, and i want to become a flight attendant. I am currently in college and ofter am finish i wishes to be come a flight attendant at my country's airline. I would like to know, if it is possible as a flight attendant to have a family of your own or become pregnant
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Hello Xandra - Wow, you've got a lot going on right now and it looks like you are trying to plan out your career beyond your current flight attendant offer. You've asked several great questions, some that I can't answer for only the future will reveal what it holds.
Ground jobs with an airline? Sorry I don't know what type of jobs you seek, their requirements and if your flight attendant experience will help qualify you. Perhaps you mean a gate agent or reservationist? I never applied for those jobs nor worked them.
You speak of leaving the airline after five years to move into the hospitality industry, which seems like that is the business of a flight attendant: hospitality. Restaurants and hotels are in this field and some of your FA experience will help you there. But PR? Public relations - that may require college coursework and maybe a degree. I do not know what your previous field of study was, whether it is related or not.
As far as working up from a junior level to managerial level - that takes the right opportunity, the right track record of performance and ambition. I have started at the bottom many times in order to get a foot in the door of a great company where those opportunities might happen. It took many years to move up the ladder.
Starting your own business? Yes, that is a great option with the right product or service but be sure to do the homework. Draw up a written business plan detailing your total costs versus total revenue and determine how long to get to your break even point. Take some business courses to help you learn the laws that govern the type of business you want to start.
These thoughts are just the tip of the iceberg and I'm certainly no expert in these things. I hope this will give you a little help even if it doesn't answer all your questions. Your age is not a factor. Thanks for your great comment and all the best to you.
Peg
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Hello Stacey,
I wish you the best in your pursuit of being a flight attendant. It takes persistence with the number of applications they receive versus the number of available positions. Sometimes, as in my case, it takes years.
The airline that you apply to will be the source to answer your question about maternity issues as a flight attendant. A word of caution when you apply: I wouldn't mention that you're eager to start a family. It sends a signal that an employer will weigh if they are trying to decide between two equally qualified candidates they want to hire. Just IMHO. Think like the employer.
Best of luck to you in all you do
Peg
hi peg !! wow! that really gave me lots of informations.I've always wanted to be a 'stewardess', im only 14 and been dreaming of flying and exploring the world ..so what does it take to be a flight attendant or also called as stewardess?? :-) hope to see your reply soon ..!!
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Hello Alexandria,
Thanks for dropping by to read this article. You understand it has been many years since I applied as a Flight Attendant and interviewed but I will share a couple of things that may still be considered important. First, I admire your determination and drive considering your age. It is tough to decide a career direction and those decisions change over time as your interests evolve. Like you, I knew at 14 that's what I wanted to do.
I recommend you continue reading (like you are doing now) about the different airline companies to become more knowledgeable about their travel routes and company policies. When you fill out the application and they ask why you want to fly for their company, you will have the answer.
Pay attention in school when they cover geography and history so you will know more about the world. Try to take a foreign language. Becoming bi-lingual (if you are not already) can give you an advantage with an international airline. Take some college classes when the time comes. It shows you are eager and willing to learn and study.
What seemed important back in the day was the candidate's outgoing, friendly personality; cheerfullness; kindness; graciousness; good hygiene and manners; eagerness to be of help; and a positive attitude. These things will go a long way in whatever you decide to do.
I wish you all the best in your pursuit of an airline career and hope this is of some help.
Kind regards,
Peg
Sista,
I love reading about your life experiences that make you the beautiful woman you are today! Wow, what a grueling, yet fun, experience where you showed so much determination and motivation. The age of 27 is not hardly old but I can see, in comparison to the other younger chicks, where you may have felt the need to try even a bit harder... as I see in some of my students today.
It is kinda kooky that your flight attendant outfit looks exactly like my nursing student scrubs (hee-hee), even the color! I was just a 'tad' heavier!! And I would have needed an oxygen mask to get through your training regime... whew! You are amazing. girlfriend!
Voted UP & across the board. Love, Maria
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Hey there Mar,
Thanks for reading this story about the good old days when Braniff was still going strong. Those flying colors were everywhere. At 27, I had a lot more of life experience than mostly of the other recruits, having already been married and on my own for nearly 10 years.
When I first started, the uniforms designed by Pucci were made from wool and in the Texas heat were unbelievably hot. Later (in the winter) we changed to the Halston designs which were made from lightweight jersey material. I wish I had kept at least one of those outfits and the wonderful suede coat that went along. The Pucci outfit does look like scrubs! How kooky indeed.
You are the amazing one, my friend. Thank you for stopping by and for the wonderful comment and votes.
Love, Peg
Loved your article - thanks for laying out the processes in becoming a flight attendant. I've been doing my research as I want to be a flight attendant. I have a few concerns though. 1, I have a fear of heights. 2, I pretty much suck at geography. Do you think these will affect my chances of becoming a flight attendant?
Thanks so much, and I wish you all the best!
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Hello Michelle, Thank you for your nice comment and I have a question for you. Have you ever taken a trip in an airplane and if so, did your fear of heights give you any trouble?
When working a flight there is little time to look out the window so it will most likely not be a problem. If you experience air sickness, then it may not be a good choice for a career. The geography issue can easily be resolved by studying the routes of the airline where you intend to apply. Prior to an interview you can brush up on applicable destinations although I doubt that you will be asked much about geography during the process.
I wish for you all the success in whatever you decide and again, thanks for your visit.
Peg
I have been a Flight Attendant for 5 years and have hung up my wings for new career horizons. This job is a fun experience that I will never regret doing but flying definitely has a life span!
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Hi Amy, My guess is that your new career could include writing some very interesting stories from the experiences you've had. The life that goes along with flying is a tough one when your job takes you away from home so many nights. I wish you all the best in your new career horizons. Thanks for your nice comment.
Peg
They say evrything happens for a reason and your friend asking you to make that phone call was fate.
I always thought that being an air hostess was a glamour job and travelling to see other parts of the world. I never thought about the rigerous traing that you girls (and boys) had to put in. The fact that at the end of a flight you would be so whacked that sightseeing would be the last thing on your minds. So thank you for the insight Peg.
The flying experience has certainly changed over the years.
A wonderful read of your experiences Peg.
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Hi Rosemay,
I believe that everything happens for a reason too. It is strange how a small incident like meeting that lady could make all the difference in the world.
The only glamorous part of the job was walking through the airport in our uniforms dragging our luggage. There were days when I woke up and didn't know what city I was in. It became a blur after a while. After all these years though I can look back on it as a fun experience.
Thanks for stopping in today Rosemay, and for reading over these old memories.
Peg
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Hello Scott Williams,
Thank you for the nice comment and the link which I'm sorry, I had to delete as it takes readers off the site. I do appreciate your taking time to drop by though.
Peg
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Hello Nikki
Thank you for the separate mail and if you have specific questions that I can answer I will do my best. Right up front remember that my information is vintage from times long ago. Things have changed a lot. I wish you all the best of luck in your research and hope you find what you are looking for. A visit to the local airport may help. :)
Peg
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Hello David,
Thank you for your very respectful question via my email address:
Q: "Thank you for sharing your awesome story. I work ground ops at the ticket and gate for an airline in (omitted). I re-read your story to re-inspire me. I am currently attempting a career change as a flight attendant. It is the love of the industry that keeps us coming back (to work!)
I have a question about the gentleman pictured with you and fellow flight attendants in green. He has a moustache and has been photographed in several Braniff pictures and websites. Do you remember his name? Was he a flight instructor or fellow flight attendant? I'd be interested in interviewing him for information from the men's point of view of a flight attendant in the '70's."
A: The guy in the picture with the four ladies in green was a flight attendant. It was a bit confusing as their uniforms looked much like pilot's uniforms. My time cards from that flight (8-77) unfortunately had no notes of the other flight attendant's names. I remember we had each been flying less than 3 months at the time. This was a charter from Hawaii to Chicago after the reserve crew deadheaded out to Hawaii.
I will continue to look through my old files in hopes of discovering the answer. Thank you again, for writing.
All the best in your pursuit to become a flight attendant!
Peg
Hello, This inspired me! I have always wanted to be a flight attendant and now being the age of 28 at a corporate job I hate but make great money which was making me stay I have finally started to focus of my dream of being a flight attendant. I feel so old compared to most people that start out in this career. I want to travel international. I know it is based on length in job but do you have an idea on how long it may take before I ca do international once I have gotten the job? Also do you think it would be an issue for a 28 yr old to get the job? I have excellent work history
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Hi Crystal. Thanks for letting me know you saw this post. As far as how long before you can travel internationally, that would be up to the airline where you find work and upon their routes and flight criteria. Some of the FAs who flew international routes had to be bilingual when I flew so long ago. I felt a bit like you when I was in training school, at 27, since the other trainees were mostly much younger. But I found that having a little world experience when I did fly made it easier to understand the importance of certain things that come with maturity.
You are not too old to try whatever makes you happy and you feel passionate about. Give it your best shot.
All the best to you,
Peg
hi, I tried to be a stewardess but i cant find no school no training, i dont know where to go and where to start.. could please guys give me some advice?
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Hello Peggy,
You might start by writing to an airline and asking for an application form to fill out if you haven't already done so. Filling out the form will tell you a lot about what the airlines want to know about you in the way of experience and background and how you answer the questions will tell them a lot about your education, experience and skill level. They ask questions that if answered the way they like, will lead to the next step. As far as I'm aware, most airlines have their own internal training department since a lot of training has to do with their own fleet of airplanes and the equipment you will need to be familiar with.
I wish you all the best as you continue your pursuit in this field. When you reach your goal all this will be well worth your time!
Peg
Reminds me of an interview I had with an airline right out of high school. I was green as a toad, had not one iota of experience and answered the question why a stewardess with "I like people". I had the feeling that the interviewer liked me, but I was too young, too inexperienced, too clueless and was advised to wait a couple of years and reapply. I'd moved on by then and never reconsidered it.
I enjoyed your real life myth buster. It is obviously brutally hard work with a set yet unpredictable work schedule where you have to be a jack of all trades. The glamour attached to the title "stewardess" would add to the demands of the profession, as I would imagine maintaining that image while working like a dog is no easy feat. Thank you for sharing your exciting adventures in a beautifully descriptive piece of telling it like it really is.
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Oh, Amy. I love your response to this story! "Green as a toad" that is so funny. "I just LOVE people." They absolutely can not stand this answer. I was glad in some ways to be a little older than the others. I had a little life experience and that was important. "Working like a dog" is funny too. That is so true. The glamour was mostly walking through the airline terminal in our uniforms with our rolling luggage. LOL
Thank you for the most awesome comment ever!
I voted up for sure.
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Thanks for the visit Integrity, and for your continued readership and votes.
Peg
You are very welcome,Peggy.
I have to hand it to you Peg, you certainly were persistent. There are not many people that would keep going after a job after being rejected. I used to think that being a flight attendant would be a terrific job. You get to travel and the job looked like fun. How wonderful that you were able to liver out your dream. Up and awesome.
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Thank you KoffeeKlatch Gals. I worked hard at getting this job and then I would let it slide for a while. Then I intensified my efforts and then I would slack off. When I got serious the goal finally came about. Thank you for noticing that it didn't happen overnight or just because I "knew" someone. It was great to finally get the job.
Peg!
As you surely know,persistence is what gets you there,with a little help from that absolutely weird chance meeting with fate.
My daughter was an airline stewardess and I enjoyed traveling the world.It was a great time.Only fly was that I may be in Europe and have to get back on stand-by to my job.
Now if it was now,I'd be free to fly away,being retired,and now single.
Darn!
Wonderful hub!Thanks for letting us into your world.
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Thank you Baygirl. What a wonderful thing it would be to have those flight privileges at this point, right? Wow. Jetting around could be serious fun. Off to wherever it is warm. MMM. I bet your daughter has some great stories to tell. Thanks for stopping in to read this one and for the great comments. See you at the Wed. barbeque.
Thanks Peg.
You made me smile with your comment.
I don't go down till February this coming year.But I'll think of you.
I will probably go to the Wine Cellar for my birthday on the 2nd if march.
take care!
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Glad you got a smile from it Baygirl! Oh that is too incredible. My friend in FL with the timeshare has a birthday in March. We'll be thinking of you when we celebrate hers again. I've been to the Wine Cellar only once. Very nice. We used to like the Hungry Fisherman and Shells but it closed. It was our annual tradition to go there.
Thanks so much for coming by!
Peg
Brilliant Peg and here's to so many more to come.
Eddy.
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Thank you, Eiddwen, for your sweet optimism.
Peg
I am a former flight attendant.i miss the industry, I am now 42.i have every intention of returning to the wild blue yonder.thank-you for remi nding me of my passion.
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Hello Sandy. All the best on your return to the wild blue yonder. The passion to fly never does leave once it gets a hold of you. I took a flight a couple of weeks ago and it all came flooding back to me like it was yesterday. Only there was no food, no peanuts, no second coffees. Oh well. The view was gorgeous. Nice to meet you here Sandy and I wish you much success in your quest.
Peg
Its nice to meet you too.hopefully in the near future we will be able to swap stories about the funny things that occur at 37,000 ft.thank-you for your kind words of encouragement.
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Sandy, You are still young. I began an entirely new career at your age and it is not too late. Was nearly forty when I finally graduated college. Set your mind for what you want and aim for the sky. (!) Meanwhile, think about sharing some of your experiences here on Hub Pages where others would love to read about it. Peg
How about the 6ft ( im 5'3) passenger who wanted me to help him stow his oversized bag. Thank you peg for reminding me of my adventures.i still find it funny how some people not only check bags,but brains at the aircraft door.i must admit I enjoyed giving a dinner party for 200 people.
Despite all of the inflight follies ,i am saddened by the changes in the industry since I flew in 1993. I pray that the industry rebounds,and becomes stronger .
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Hi Sandy. I love your description, "a dinner party for 200 people." That is it for sure. With Cappucino! That 6' tall guy was on my flight too and he carried onboard a duffel bag that felt full of bricks. We had to find a place to stow it at the last minute. Yes, that all our industries rebound and that our nation becomes strong again.
I too pray that our nation becomes strong again.we were the best and will be again.
Thank-you peg for bringing back those great memories of training,and inflight follies.your words of encouragement helped.god bless you.please keep writing.
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Sandy, Once again I encourage you to join the Hub Pages community. It is free and easy. Wow. What a slogan! Anyhow, your stories would be welcomed here and you might find you enjoy it. All the best.
I do remember when flying was an exciting event and people saw you off...and waited until the plane left. Today it is a quick way to get from point A to point B..and not always soquick...We drive to California and it takes 7 hours. If we figure the shuttle to Skyharbor airport, waiting, boarding etc...it comes pretty close. And the flight attendants were who we wanted to be..Life has changed. Thanks for a great and enlightening hub.
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Hi Carol7777. Me too. Watching them from the big plate glass window as the plane taxied off to the runway. Now the seats turn away from the window and travelers are glued to their tech devices while life goes on around them. Ah. The olden days...You know Carol, I don't think the youth see that as a glamour job anymore.
I appreciate your keen insight and your visit to this flight back in time.
Smiles
Peg
Hello Peg. The added photos certainly refreshed this hub. Those were the days, 'my friend', we thought..... ok you know the rest.
What ever happened to the 747?
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Thanks for dropping by to check out the new photos, Mck. The answer to your question would be a good topic for a hub. I read a few articles and from what I gathered the design has been enhanced several times to increase capacity and speed. The company delivered its 1,400th 747 in February, according to its Web site. Their fun facts include:
The 747 fleet has logged more than 42 billion nautical miles (77.8 billion kilometers), equivalent to 101,500 trips from the Earth to the moon and back.
The 747 fleet has flown 3.5 billion people - the equivalent of more than half of the world's population.
Dear Peg, I visited this page weeks (months?) ago, but I don't see my comment. Did I forget to leave a comment? I'm so sorry. What a wonderful adventure, every girl's dream to be a stewardess. Love the photos. (as always) You have so many stories to tell, keep em coming. Regards, snakeslane
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Hello Snakeslane. Thanks for the return visit. It was inspired by your recent hub, Scanning the Past in B and W. I took a look at the pictures I had originally scanned still in my scrapbook and realized they needed some fixing. So what better to do with a Saturday morning? Hah! Thanks for the visit and the inspiration. It is always great to see you, comments or not. Meet me for coffee?
I just got hired with an Airline, at the age of 42! My life dream has been to be an FA, and now I finally get to do it. My mom was one in the 60's and I know it will be so different. But to travel for work....well I just can't wait. I loved your article!
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Hello Leannegc. Congratulations on your accomplishment and on realizing your long-term dream. Wow, that is truly inspirational. I wish you all the best in your new travel career. What a great story yours will make! Please drop back in if you ever have time.
Peg
Thanks for sharing the story of your adventure! Its fun to remember the days when flying truly was glamorous, with good meals served on china. Today's airline experiences are so much worse. Great hub.
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Hello Tipstoretireearly, Thanks for the sweet comment and the visit. Nice of you to remember those days with me. Yes, I can agree with today's experiences being quite different.
Hi Peg,
its was really nice to read your life as a flight attendant and see how things used to be. My interest in aviation came about this year after my friends mom got an interview with an airline but unfortunately didn't get hired, I applied shortly after her and got a response from 2 major carriers, I thought it wasn't meant to be after missing one of the interviews after being stuck in traffic and missing the cut off by 5 minutes then totally bombing the other interview, I figured that maybe I should re-due the whole career change, But the silver lining has shown for me again! I was invited to interview with another major carrier in Dallas as well. I know if this job probably wont be like the show 'Pan Am' but hey It'll be an adventure. :)
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Hello Dezco and thanks for stopping in. Wow, missing the interview due to traffic and a 5 minute cut off is really sad. What makes you think you didn't do well in the other interview? Use that information to do better on the next one. I can truly relate to what you said as I know I messed up on a couple of interviews also. A major carrier in Dallas? That will lead to many adventures that will make the TV show look tame. Best of luck always, in whatever you do. Peg
Happy holidays peg,
Now that we are on final approach to a new year,i will go for round 2 as a hostess of many dinner parties for hundreds of people.even though the main course will consist of beverages.wish me luck.if all goes well,wild blue yonder here I come.
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Hi Sandy. My hopes are with you for success in this pursuit. You sound like the perfect type to take on the role as hostess for hundreds of people. What a great way to think of that service. All the best and I hope you'll let us know how it goes.
Peg
A wonderful life. I`m a flight attendant and I`d like to be in touch with you. Would please send me a email? gomes1204@hotmail.com.
I `d like to talk with about Braniff. I`m looking forward to hearing from you. Kindest regards
Aldo
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Hello Aldo. So nice to hear from you. I will send you an email. Hub Pages has changed the "Contact me" button and I no longer know where it is. Sorry about that. Looking forward to hearing about your experiences and hoping you will share them here on HP.
Peg
Hi Peg-what a great story about how your fate changed because of one phone number and customer at a salon. It's obvious you were meant to be a flight attendant. I was very impressed at your drive to keep trying for the job after the rejection letters. It pays off to keep trying. I don't know if I ever mentioned this to you, but my dad was a pilot for Northwest Airlines, which is how he met my mom, a Flight attendant. My whole family continues to be an airline family. My oldest brother is a pilot and my sister is a flight attendant. Sis and I are the only ones that went into a different occupation. You have to love flying and traveling to be in this field. I am too much of a home body to be in the business and I get nervous flying. Great story my friend. I hit many buttons and will share.
Great hub, thats such an exciting story.... One thing that I would love about the job is the fact that you get to travel around so much.
This is outstanding work and gives us insight into those charming people who are almost always so accomodating and gracious on flights.
It is really an engrossing account of the preparation and training. Were there any especially memorable or hazardous flights that might be the subject of a follow up?
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Hi Minnetonka. No, I did not know that your Dad was a pilot and your Mom, a flight attendant. Wow. Plus your brother and sister as well. What a traveling family, yours is. It is a tough profession to be traveling so much, but I truly enjoyed the experience during the short time I stayed. Only regret was that an injury discouraged me and I left the airlines too soon. Who knows how that might have changed my destiny?
So nice of you to vote and share. Thanks a whole heap for the visit, the kind words and sharing about your family's airline connections. Peg
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Hello Entourage 007. Thank you and nice to meet you today. It was always my dream to travel and that I did. Flying the friendly skies in "Flying Colors" was a dream come true.
Very interesting, Peg. It brought me back to memories of my flight school days in the Air Force and the reminder that the chosen road in life makes a big difference in who we become as we progress in life. Our life experiences shape us in so, so, many ways. Thanks much for sharing. ~WB
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Hello Xstatic. Thanks for the encouragement to write more about this career. I did publish a couple of other flight attendant hubs some time back and then got distracted by so many other life experiences. So many stories, so little time. Your words make me want to share those "special" flights that come to mind. Thank you very much and I'll give it some more thought.
Peg
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Wayne Brown, your words are true and deeply meaningful. Our choices in life do affect the way we turn out as individuals, along with our experiences. I believe that is one of the greatest benefits of HubPages: that we can share what we have gained over the course of our careers and our lives. Thank you for stopping in to remind me of this important ideal.
Peg
Public dealing is always a difficult but interesting job to do, you learn a lot, and you never know how time flies off, very interesting hub, God bless, Peg.
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Hello Girishpuri, You are right about working in the public sector. There are always going to be challenges. Time does fly when you're flying, though. Thank you for the visit and for taking time to write a nice comment. May God bless you as well.
Great hub, Peg! Thanks for sharing a special part of your life journey with us. It is wonderful that woman saw qualities in you that you could express so beautifully in your chosen career. I remember flying first class with my family and all the "perks." Lots of changes as you say. Once when flying internationally, the flight was so long I started a pillow fight to break up the boredom. I was going to Israel with a group of fellow clergy for a conference. Two weeks later during our return flight, one of the flight attendants recognized me, smiled and said, "Just a moment." A couple of minutes later she returned with an armload of pillows and told me to get to work :~) The pressures and challenges flight attendants face are great, and I don't think the public at large has a real appreciation of all it takes. I commend you! Thank you for your previous service! L.
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Thanks so much Linda. And for the great story about the pillow fight. What an amusing way to break up the boredom on a long flight. First class travel is truly the way to go. Such a marked difference in the accommodations and level of service. Of course, with fewer passengers to serve, a flight attendant can spend more time truly paying attention to the travelers and their needs. What an asset to have a good memory like the flight attendant who remembered you on your return trip. And so few passengers do actually understand the challenges of the job. Again. I so appreciate your visit and the wonderful comment. Thank you so much.
Bless your heart! So grateful for our connection, Peg. Looking forward to enjoying and learning from more of your hubs...L.
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So nice to see you back for another visit, Linda.
Thanks
Peg
Hi Peg,
Thanks for sharing your story with us about how you became a flight attendant. Had I not become a registered nurse, I think that would have been a career that I would have enjoyed especially with the travel opportunities on your off time. We have a friend who became a flight attendant and she and her husband have certainly taken advantage of flying to different locations at little cost. Nice! Up and interesting votes.
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Thanks, Peggy. Traveling is a lot of fun, for sure. Being a registered nurse has its moments and would be rewarding in so many ways. I'm sure you have some interesting cases that you handled in your career. So nice of you to stop by today and leave a comment. Thanks for the votes, too.
Awesome article Peggy. I have a question for you. When you were a stewardess, did the no marriage rule apply? If so, did many of the women go through internal conflict about choosing love over their careers? I can imagine it must have been hard for someone who was eager to see the world to suddenly quit if choosing to get hitched. Just curious on your take. Thanks.
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Hello Tofu, Thanks for the visit and great comment. When I first applied for Eastern airlines in the early 1970s, they had a marriage restriction in place. Years later, when I worked for Braniff, the marriage restriction had been eliminated from most flight attendant positions. It is difficult to work the uncertain schedule when serving as a reserve, which, depending on the airline, can sometimes last years. I imagine it is even more difficult to stay overnight and leave children at home. Some manage this with no issues and others choose to leave the job. I guess it depends on the individual and their situation.
When I traveled as a telecom project manager, I was out of town about 70 percent of the time. With my hubby also traveling on business, it did put a strain on us. Sometimes it meant spending a couple of weeks apart. Fortunately and thankfully, we survived.
I greatly appreciate the look behind the curtain of the airplane industry. A very fascinating and interesting look at your experiences as a flight attendant. Some very cool pictures as well. Voted up and awesome.
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Hello Mr. Cogerson. Thanks for stopping in to check out this peek at the airlines and for your appreciation of these old treasured photos. Sweet to see you here today. Thanks for the comments and the votes, too!
Hi Peg,
What a great story, it was a job I wished I could have done one upon a time. They had all sorts of restrictions here in Australia too. Sadly things have changed in the airline industry - even Richard Branson cannot bring back the glamour!. I think that if I was to work for an airline these days it would have to be in safety or HR. But those jobs are very sexy here and hard to come by. Voted up :)
Cheers, Mel
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Hello Mel Jay. You've lifted my spirits today with your visit and fine comment. To have this hub mentioned in the same paragraph with Richard Branson is an honor, indeed. Yes, so much has changed with the airline industry and the experience of flying has really been altered. So nice to see you here and wish we could have worked some flights together. Thank you for the vote and the visit which was truly appreciated.
I was hired by Eastern on my 1st try. Wow...a straight guys heaven. Only the most educated and beautiful in those days. Now anything can waddle down the aisle. Bring back standards. Virgin Atlantic is the best flying today. Where is my time machine?
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Hi Tim. Congrats on flying for Eastern. One of my male friends from beauty school flew for them. His stories kept me inspired to keep trying to get hired. Living in Florida for so many years, that airline was my first choice for employment. Plus, the uniforms were so classy. You are right, a time machine would be quite handy.
What an exciting journey you had flying the friendly skies! :)
Thanks for bringing this back to us, Sunshine - and thanks for putting the piece together in the first place, Peg -
Braniff Airlines - never had a problem with that outfit, but it was often referred to as "Braniff - the world's largest unscheduled airline." Bright colored aircraft unlike the others of the day... strange (but usually enjoyable) flights. I recall one flight that Braniff called a "businessman's special" on which a good lunch was served. I can see it all again. A planeload of business folks in suits and ties, all being served nice hot lunches of barbecued spare ribs dripping with some really tasty barbecue sauce. :-) On one flight (chicken legs this time) with biscuits. I wanted another biscuit. The flight attendant tossed one over passengers' heads right to me where I sat about five or so rows away. Loved that Braniff.
Sure did beat lots of the trips provided me by "Teeter-Totter Airlines" (Trans-Texas Airlines- or maybe "Airways?") They lowered me out the side of one of their old DC3's one night in the middle of the lonesome runway at San Angelo. Just me. I walked on over to the terminal in the darkness under observation by several rabbits. Had to wake up the guy at the desk. Probably wishing for a biscuit or a BBQ rib, too, but Braniff didn't make the scene that time.
Peg, did you ever toss a biscuit? If not, why not. Passengers don't ever forget neat stuff like that. Golly, that was way back around the late 1960's or so...
Thanks for jogging my pleasant memories...
Gus :-)))
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Hello Sunshine! I love that name; it makes me smile. Thanks for the sweet words and for visiting today.
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Hi Gus, What a fun story about the food service on your flight. I never tossed a biscuit, but I did get reprimanded for not using the proper bread basket when passing out rolls. In an effort to expedite, I carried them out of the galley in the plastic bag. That was a definite no-no as elegant service was our goal. Thanks for your visit here and for the great story about "Teeter-Totter Airlines" letting you out on the runway in the dark. Wow. I can relate to waking the guy at the desk on several legs to podunk airports. Very funny and thanks again for the visit. See you in the sky!
Fantastic opportunity you have had, Peg, and I am sure your memories are precious. Being a Flight Attendant was also one of my dreams, but the opportunity to realize it just never presented itself.
Nothing we do is ever wasted :)
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Martie, you would have made an excellent Flight Attendant. I only worked for the airlines for a short while, but have never regretted having that opportunity. Only that I left for the wrong reasons and too soon.
When I have taken flights I have always thought how hard the flight attendants have to work to get everything done in the time they have. Sometimes on European flight it is only a couple of hours to go through the whole routine and then get ready to do the next flight.
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Hi 2uesday. Thank you for the visit and the thoughtful comment. You are among the few who notice what goes on behind the scenes. Thank you.
An excellent story and useful information for anyone who may dream of a career as an airline attendant. Appreciate that you wrote about some of the less glamorous aspects of the job. Must have been so exciting and interesting to fly to so many different places!
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Hello Au fait, So glad you came by and thanks for reading this story. There were plenty of non glamorous aspects along the way but it was lots of fun. It's something I've always been glad I did, one of those bucket list kind of things, you know. Wish I had stuck with it longer. Anyway...
I really enjoyed reading your adventure as a flight attendant. Now that I see what you had to go through, I have an extremely high appreciation for flight attendants. But, why the wool suits? That must have been hot in the summer.
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Thank you MarleneB. Who knows what goes on in the minds of fashion designers? It was a mystery to us, too. In October that year we got newer uniforms that were made of lightweight jersey, just in time for winter. Thank goodness it was accessorized with suede full length coats.
What a nice look back! Some of the best opportunities in life happen just the way you describe them -- happy accidents (chance conversations with strangers, etc.) Gosh, I recall when people used to smoke on airplanes, too!
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Hello FlourishAnyway! Happy accidents is a good way to describe it. We never know who we may be talking to when me meet a stranger. Yes, the "smoking section" - as if the smoke didn't travel into the vents. Hahah. Thanks for the nice comment and the visit.
I really enjoyed this. Being a flight attendant always seemed a glamorous profession, especially a few decades ago. I'm sure it's very grueling and tiring work too. Congrats on getting to live your dream!
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Hi Crystal. Thank you. I once thought it was a glamorous profession before I actually worked the job. And BTW, this was a few decades ago. Oh, boy. It is redundant and tiring but also very exciting at times. Nice of you to come by and leave a comment.
In the sixties and seventies, I think every girl dreamed of being an air hostess! Travel was so expensive then, so doing it as a job seemed to be the only way to do it.
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True, Marisa. I doubt if it is still the job that girls (and young men) dream about as much these days. The travel opportunities are so much less expensive. Now a job on The Love Boat. . . (JK)
Love the article and the old style photo's :) It did once cross my mind to become a flight attendant, but now I don't think its for me. Apart from the continuing urge to travel that is haha. I am now 19 and have been traveling since I was 17, I have defiantly caught the bug !
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Nice of you to visit this article, Cassidydt. Thank you for the great comment and all the best in your quest for travel. There are many ways in which to see the world. Good luck.
Thanks for the share pegcole, it was really interesting. When I was in high school most of my female classmates dream is to become a flight attendant. Some of them make it though. It was one of those sought after profession. Great hub!
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Thank you for dropping in here, JPSO138. It's nice to see you. Yes, you are right about being a sought after profession back in the day. Travel the world - work your way around the world. But now. I'm not sure with all the changes in the ways we travel.
Enjoyed reading this. I was a Stew in Dallas '65-68. Actually I lived in those apts next door to the hotel where you were in training. I flew for both Central and American. Those were the days! Wonderful memories. Love Field was an exciting place on the day!
That sounds like an exciting career. Did you get to enjoy the different locales?.
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Hi Jane. Dallas Stew - cool! I remember those apartments next door to the Royal Coach (Roach) Inn. I tried running around that parking lot to lose some weight the last few days of training. Too many free buffet meals. Anyhow - nice to see you here. Central and American? Wow.
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Hi Rebeccamealey. It was such a short time really. I did enjoy many of the longer layovers and always tried to get out and see the places if time permitted. I have a lot of fond memories of Omaha and some old time stores in their downtown square.
Really enjoyed reading about your exciting career. My father was a Capt. for PanAm and naturally, I got to fly quiet a bit. Have had some great friends who flew for TTA, Tex Int'l and Continental. Thanks for sharing some of your career highlights.
I enjoyed reading your story very much!! Sounds like you had an amazing career - with lots of stories to tell. I am glad you shared some of your experiences here.
https://wanderwisdom.com/transportation/10-Things-...
- Mister Hollywood
This was such a joy to read. Very interesting and these photos are priceless! Voted up and across and of course, sharing! Audrey
Wonderful life story! I really enjoyed reading about your experiences as a flight attendant, especially what it took to get the job. Talk about perseverance. Wow! And, the photos were perfect; it really enhanced my ability to image what life was like - colors, clothing, planes...everything. Voted up!
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Hi Beau, Captain for PanAm, wow. I bet you have some great stories about your travel days, too. Thanks for the encouraging words here on this trip down memory lane. I'll have to come up with some of the highlights of those days and write about them. Perhaps this is the year for it.
I hope your holiday was special and filled with friends, food and fun.
All the best
Peg
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Hi Misterhollywood. I'm in the process of reading your story on the link you provided here. Thank you very much for stopping in. If you don't mind, I may add your link into the text of the article. I look forward to reading your hubs.
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Hello Audrey and Happy New Year. Thanks so much for stopping in here, for sharing and for your kind remarks. All the best to you and yours for a terrific new year. Peg
Thanks, Peg and I appreciate! I added you as well!
- Mister Hollywood
I've been on enough flights this year to be a flight attendant - just by watching! Great hub! - Harlan
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Hello Harlan, I think I flew more miles on business travel than I did with the airlines. It is quite a show if you just sit back and watch things unfold. Nice of you to stop in here today. Cheers.
Wonderful experience! Thanks for sharing!
Yes, sometimes just one phone call can do the trick!
Glad you found yours!
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Hello Purple Perl. Thank you for dropping in to read this story and for taking time to leave a nice comment. All the best your way.
They didn't accept "married applicants"- wow, what a sign of the times!
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Thank you Shyron, for sharing this hub. ♫
What a great read. It so reminded me of my daughter and her journey to become a flight attendant for united airlines . Her last flight was after 911 when they had to let a lot of stuwardesses go unless they were prepared to fly back to back as i understood at the time. She was pregnant so that was her reasons for quitting. I loved the photos.
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Hi Nadine. I'll bet your daughter has some great stories to share about her experiences in seeking employment and from her travels. I appreciate you taking the time to drop in and spend a few moments here. Thanks so much. It is nice to meet you.
Wow, this was an amazing read. I am glad I found your story of being a flight attendant and the experiences you went through. I am about to be 27 in March. I finished both undergrad and grad schools in the USA and worked in a corporate world for couple of years. Recently I received an offer from a major International Airline to work as a flight steward. I accepted the contract. Now I have 3 weeks to decide whether to quit the job I recently got with one software company or to go for something completely different and new. Life is about living isn't it? I like to travel and I think this is my perfect chance to do so. It would be a chance to see something new, meet new people, but also go through some tough customer experience on this job :) I know it is not an easy job, but I am ready for it. Any job has tough moments, just like this one. The only thing I worry about is if it is smart for me to try this job at the age of 27? I mean I am not planning to make it my career but just to travel the World and do something I always wanted to do, see different places and who knows what else this job can bring. I am thinking it wouldn't hurt me that much to give it a shot? I would appreciate if you can give me your advise and what you think? I know I will make a decision in the end, but I think you can give me an honest advise and answer. Thank you so much!
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Hello P. Rudy, Congratulations on receiving an offer from a major International Airline. That is quite an accomplishment. I know you will make the right decision once you carefully consider the possibilities. You wouldn't have applied for the position if you hadn't wanted to be a flight steward.
Life is about living, experiencing different things, learning about different cultures and places. Travel while you are young and relatively free of obligations, for example, young children whose time as children is short and not something you'll want to miss. Grab the moment. Seize the day. Take a chance. You can go back to an office career at any age. I did. I found it incredibly interesting that you are the same age as I was when I got hired by Braniff. :)
I hope you'll come back to let me know what you decide.
All the best to you,
Peg
Wow, thank you for your quick response :) I had a nice chat with my older brother about this opportunity and I found some answers I have been looking for :) I will let you know in couple of week what i decide.
Thank you for your advise and yes I too think it is interesting I am the same age when you got your offer :)
I bookmarked your page and will definitely let you know when I decide.
Thank you again.
P.Rudy
This was such a great read, Peg! I think almost every teen I knew dreamed of being a flight attendant at one time or another. I know I did. Maybe it was a lot harder work and less glamorous than we thought, but what a great experience it must have been for you at that time of your life. Thanks for sharing your story.!
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Hi Stephanie. I appreciate you stopping by and sharing that you also dreamed of being a flight attendant at one time. It truly was considered a glamour job, but you're right, it was a lot more work than we ever realized. Thanks for reading and for the great comment.
I came back for another visit. These photos alone are worth a hub award. I love reading your story again. Fantastic job dear Peg! Up +++ and sharing.
Great hub! Glad you were persistent in following your dream! Thanks for sharing!
What a great hub to show the process in becoming an airline hostess. You showed endurance in never giving up your dream. I loved the photos and the training. which sounds like basic training in the service. It is a difficult field to enter, as I know others who never made it. Nice to meet you. Great hub. Pinning Blessings Audrey
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Hello Vocalcoach. I really appreciate your return visit. It gave me inspiration to read over the text again and find some areas that needed sprucing up. Thanks so much for the encouragement, the great comment and the share.
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Hi Jenn-Anne. Thanks for dropping in and for the read. You know, it did take a long time but thankfully it eventually came to be. Nice to see you today.
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Brakel2, thank you so much for the comment about the photos. They look old timey now and yet, to me, they seem like they were taken yesterday. We had many good instructors in training class and I learned things that still carry forward as useful. I feel very fortunate to have had the experience. It's nice to meet you too. Thanks for pinning! Cheers.
I worked as a flight attendant too. I hated it though and quit my permanent contract in the middle of recession (yes, I am crazy) to take a degree in Nutrition. I don't regret it one bit although I'm broke.
I guess those were different times when being a flight attendant was still fun and kind of glamorous... Nowadays they just don't care about crew or passengers, they just care about the money...
I might write my own hub about it someday so people can see how different things are now...
Lovely hub, thumbs up!
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Thanks for the visit, Patricia. I would love to read your account of the experience and compare it to my rose-colored memories. Hahah. Glad to hear that you finished your degree - so did I, eventually. It only took about 2 decades. Oh well. Perserverance and onward. Nice to see you today.
I always thought being a fight attendant was kind of a glamorous career to get into, but only for others. Not that I would have ever made it off the ground, being such a land lover. One flight under my belt from was when I was a little girl, and that was enough for me.
This is really some very excellent writing.
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Hello Colorfulone, Thank you so much for visiting this article and for leaving such a nice comment. Some people are truly fearful of flying, but not me. I feel safer in the air than on the highway.
I loved reading your story. It made me think back on the time when I applied to be a flight attendant. All was a go until I got on a scale ... I didn't weigh enough. That was then :) What a terrific article. I'm so glad your dream came true.
Thank you for the insightful hub. You have such great storytelling skills and the pictures are fantastic too.
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Hello Favored, It's nice to meet you here. Your outcome is not the usual result of getting on the scale, that's for sure. When graduation day came close, we had to weigh in. Had I not lost three pounds in as many days, I was not eligible to graduate. I just barely made it.
I really appreciate your kind comments and visit today. Thank you.
Brought back some great memories--I flew for TWA back in the 60's and it certainly was a different world back then. We treated our passengers as "guests" and I loved my job! Nicely done : )
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Hello DealForALiving, Your comment this morning when I opened my HubPages account was truly uplifting. Thanks so much for the kind words and visit.
Reading this took me back to my youth and the romantic way air travel was portrayed back then. Glad you were able to live some of those adventures in person (even in wool!).
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Hi MartieG, I'll imagine you have some fantastic stories to tell about your time with the airlines. We were also trained to treat the passengers as guests with us being the hostess or hosts. It was a time where we served second coffees and Cappucino, offered playing cards free and toys to children along with full course meals. So different than it is today.
Loved the photos of your career.
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Hi SusanDeppner, Wow. It is hard to believe it's been so long ago and so many careers past for me. Thank you for stopping in to read this walk back in time and for the delightful comment. Yes, even in wool. That was always a bizarre part of it here in Texas, in particular.
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Hi Pawpawwrites, Thank you so much. I love your name as it evokes such wonderful memories from my childhood. That was the name we called my Dad's father.
This was so interesting; sorry I missed it for so long. I know how exciting it must have been or can imagine! Thanks so much for sharing that. I will share it too.
Very wonderful read...Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience here...i love to travel a lot and so on flights i do see the flight attendants and often end up wondering how their life is actually. Its nice to see your dreams to come true its precious actually. God bless...votes up and shared as well.
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Hi Jackie Lynnley, Thanks for the visit. It always makes me take a fresh look at these old photos to relive the memories. I appreciate you coming by and thanks for sharing this story.
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Hello Dghbrh, Thank you for the wonderful comment. And for the precious words. I really appreciate your sent blessings, votes and share.
May God bless you, too. Peg
Nice trip to the way back! I have a friend who, like you, always dreamed of being a "stewardess" (aka flight attendant). So she made that her 2nd career. Still doing it! I don't know how you ladies do/did it. But I understand the appeal of it. Voted up and interesting!
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Hello Heidithorne. Yes, it was a dream of mine for many years before I got the opportunity to fly. I'm glad I gave it a try although I didn't stay a long time. Perhaps I should have but health issues got in the way. Thanks for the visit, the votes and the interesting comment.
What an incredible chapter of your life! You must have had so many amazing experiences :) I've often wondered what it would be like as a flight attendant - so thank you for sharing! :)
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Hi Richard1988. Thank you for the incredible comment. I really appreciate you dropping in to share these flight attendant memories with me. Hope to see you in the friendly skies soon.
For some folks getting paid to travel is their dream job!
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So true, Poetryman. This was my dream job. I loved flying.
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So true, Poetryman. This was my dream job. I loved flying.
Hi there,
My name's Genna and I work for Medavia, a media company based in Bristol, UK. I am looking to write an article that is kind of a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a flight attendant- I was wondering whether you might be willing to share your story with us? We do supply a fee for stories we publish so there is the potential for you to make a bit of money whilst sharing your experiences of this line of work. I'd so love to hear your story!
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Hi Genna,
Thanks for reaching out to me. I hope you read the article above and know that my flying days were long ago in the seventies. If you would still like to contact me, please click on my name at the top of the page, look under fan mail and under that tab is a section "send me an email". Be sure to identify yourself so that it will not go to Spam. Again, thank you for the contact and yes, I am interested. Peg
Did you know a First Officer that flew for Northwest Orient during the 1979 and 1980's name? The reason I'm asking this question, I house sit and clean his house when I was college in Seattle. I believe his last name was German. He spoke fluent German and help me pass my German class with a B. Which was a good grade for me.
Sorry. His first name is Vernon and I can't recall his last name, it's been 35 years. Thanks for your help, if possible.
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Hi Claudiacrawford19, Thanks for coming by. No, I did not know the man you've mentioned who worked for Northwest Orient. There were so many hundreds of flight attendants and pilots at Braniff that I never met as well. So sorry I can't help you on this.
great experience
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Thank you, Sujaya Venkatesh.
Hi Peg - I came back to read this again. It's written so well - one of those hubs you just can't get enough of. Sharing once more.
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Thanks, Audrey! I appreciate your return visit and sharing this article. Cheers.
Peg, Loved reading of your adventure and eventual career as an airline stewardess. It was actually a dream I had too but never realized - so I lived it vicariously through you. ;)
Thanks for sharing - good writing here. :)
Mekenzie
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Thanks for sharing the experience with me, Mekenzie. I appreciate your comments.
I've also always wanted to be a flight attendant. I didn't realize it was such a challenge to get a regular schedule. What an exciting and abrupt change in career path! I enjoyed reading your experience.
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Thank you for stopping by, Vespawoolf. I'm glad you shared about wanting this career for yourself. It was truly a great experience.
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