An airline stewardess’ primary responsibility is to assist in the safety of passengers on commercial airliner flights. A secondary responsibility is to assist in the comfort and satisfaction of airline passengers. The title “airline stewardess” dates from the early days of commercial air travel, when only women were employed in this position. A person in this position is now known as a “flight attendant.”
Airline stewardesses’ typical responsibilities include assisting in the safety of flights informing passengers of safety procedures and how to use equipment such as air masks, emergency doors, and flotation devices if necessary. They ensure that electronic devices that could compromise flight safety, such as cell phones, are switched off. Passengers’ seat backs and tray tables are checked airline stewardesses to ensure that they are in the proper positions for takeoff and landing. They inspect seat belts during takeoff and landing to ensure that passengers are wearing them during inclement weather.
Airlines stewardesses are also responsible for assisting any passengers who require additional assistance during boarding, flight, or as they exit the plane. Families with small children, children traveling alone, the elderly, and the disabled are all examples of this. If a passenger becomes ill on a flight, an airline stewardess trained in first-aid procedures is on hand to assist them. If a passenger has a serious medical condition, the airline stewardess will try to locate a doctor or nurse who can assist the sick passenger.
It is the responsibility of airline stewardesses to be proactive and take charge in the event of an actual flight emergency, such as an emergency landing. They examine passengers’ conditions and instruct them on how to exit the plane. They assist passengers who are unable to exit on their own and ensure that all passengers exit the plane safely.
Airline stewardesses provide beverages and snacks to passengers during flights to ensure their comfort. Depending on the airline and the length of the flight, meals may be available for purchase or provided. Passengers who want to watch in-flight movies or television programs or listen to in-flight radio stations are given headsets. They must also deal with unruly or uncooperative passengers.
An airline stewardess attends a pre-flight briefing prior to the flight to learn about the upcoming flight. The stewardess then checks first-aid kits, food supplies, and other items before preparing the cabin for passengers. The airline stewardess greets passengers as they board the plane, answers seating questions, and assists them with stowing carry-on luggage. The stewardess ensures that all passengers have exited the plane, collects lost items, and reports any issues with passengers or equipment after the flight.