Flight Attendant Day Holly

1. 

   We sat down with Holly, Lead Flight Attendant, to learn more about a day-in-the-life of a Swoop Flight Attendant.

   What led you to become a Flight Attendant?

   I used to love (and still do) watching the flight crew walk up to the aircraft, looking all snazzy. When I was a little girl, I always thought it would be the coolest gig to have. So, I did the thing, and applied. And here I am today, I realized a dream of mine and I am flying the friendly skies!

   What is a unique part of your job that most people don’t know you do? Or a common misconception?

   I don’t think people realize the amount of consistent safety related training and work we do behind the scenes. Safety really is our #1 priority, and on daily basis we are all collectively working as a team to find areas to improve upon.

   What does safety mean to you?

   Applying all the skills we learn and exercising best judgment at all times to best protect our travellers and our crew.

   What is the training process like for a Flight Attendant?

   At Swoop, we undergo a four week training process. Three of which are spent in class learning ‘textbook’ style. The last week you head off to Calgary to use the aircraft simulator. There you get the chance to fight live fires, practice hands on First Aid and experience what to do and how to react in emergency situations.

   What are some of the first things you do when you land in a new city?

   I love exploring the local food scene, historic sites and the odd comedy club for an evening laugh!

   Can you share the most exciting thing that has happened to you on board?

   It blows my mind how small our world is. There have been so many instances where I’ve shown up for a flight and either distant family members, or people I haven’t seen in over decade have happened to be travelling on my flight. It’s happened more times than I can count, and it is always a welcoming surprise that makes my day!

   What are some other career opportunities that you achieve as a Flight Attendant?

   If you wish to stay in aviation, you could aspire to become a Lead Flight Attendant, an Inflight Trainer, a Base Leader or head of a company’s Inflight division. If being a Flight Attendant is a just pit stop on your life journey, then it is excellent experience to gain valuable customer service and critical thinking skills.

   What is your favourite part of your job?

   It’s tough to choose just one! I love watching the excitement on the faces of our first time travellers when the aircraft pulls up and away from the runway. I love looking out the window and watching the cities light up beneath us, one by one as the sun sets during an evening flight. But most of all, I love showing up to work every time knowing I’m working alongside people I would consider family.

   Is there anything you would like to share that would highlight a day-in-the-life of a Flight Attendant?

   You never know what your day will have in store for you. Aviation is always full of surprises. Be confident and trust in yourself and your training (oh and prepare to consume a lot of caffeine)!

   

Maria Kostaras