Navigating the Rigorous Process of Selecting Crew Members for Commercial Flights

Choosing a career as a commercial flight crew member is one of the most competitive and challenging endeavors one can pursue. With the world becoming more stressful and the financial landscape more demanding, securing a position on a commercial flight has become exceedingly difficult. This article aims to illuminate the multifaceted selection process that aspiring crew members must endure.

1. Applying and the ATS Process

When aspiring to become a flight crew member, the journey begins with applying for a role. However, the first hurdle is not the human interviewer but the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) – an artificial intelligence designed to filter out unsuitable candidates. With thousands of applicants vying for the position, many of them do not even make it beyond this initial AI gatekeeper.

For those fortunate enough to pass the ATS, the next step often involves either an invite to an assessment day or the completion of various online assessments. Some airlines have turned to HireVue, an AI platform, to conduct initial video interviews. This step is critical as these assessments are designed to narrow down the pool of applicants considerably.

2. The Assessment Day: A Full Day of Challenges

Those who make it past the ATS hurdle face a rigorous assessment day. The day is packed with group activities and interviews, where candidates are put through their paces. The assessment process is designed to mimic real-world scenarios, preparing applicants for the fast-paced and intense environment of a commercial flight.

Imagine being among the 10 selected out of 1,000 applicants – that's the stark reality of the selection process. The assessment day is an all-encompassing ordeal that tests various aspects of a candidate's suitability for the role. Here, individuals vying for the position are evaluated on a range of criteria:

Communication skills Team-player spirit Flexibility and adaptability Leadership qualities Customer service orientation or experience Confidence Willingness to listen to others Work ethic Problem-solving abilities Stress management

The assessment day is a combination of group activities and one-on-one interviews where candidates are expected to exhibit all the above qualities. The goal is to select a candidate who can perform exceptionally well under pressure and in a team environment.

3. Final Interview and Beyond

Those who manage to pass the assessment day are then invited to the final interview. If many applicants attended the first day, the process can extend to a third day; otherwise, it usually concludes within two days. The final interview rounds the process off, and it is here that the HR team conducts detailed background checks and medical tests.

Passing this final stage is by no means the end of the journey. During the training period, further medical tests are conducted, and any discrepancies can lead to immediate disqualification. Thus, surviving the final interview is just the first step toward securing a position in the cockpit.

4. Perseverance and Adaptability

The selection process is not only about meeting the required criteria. It is also a test of perseverance, adaptability, and the ability to handle stress. The airline is looking for someone who can thrive in a fast-paced environment and who can adapt to new situations. They need someone who can work as part of a team while also excelling in solo tasks.

Remember, the process is designed to find the best fit for the role. Each candidate who makes it to the final stage has demonstrated above-average skills and qualities that make them a strong candidate. However, even then, the role of a commercial flight crew member is not for the faint of heart. It requires a unique blend of skills, resilience, and a dedication to excellence.

Conclusion

The selection process for commercial flight crew members is a testament to the demanding nature of the job. From the AI-driven ATS to the mentally and physically challenging assessment day, each step is designed to find the most suitable candidates. For those who make it through the gauntlet, the rewards of a career in commercial aviation are substantial. However, for the thousands of applicants who do not make it, the experience serves as a valuable learning opportunity and a reminder of the competitive nature of the industry.