Seasonal Cabin Crew Contracts: Who Are They Ideal For?

A good idea for some?

Not all cabin crew contracts are full-time permanent positions. In fact, most cabin crew jobs start either on a probation basis of six months or as a temporary contract. With both of these, your performance is measured and will only be extended if you make the grade. After this, the contract can be extended or made permanent, if successful. However, for some, the seasonal contract is an ideal option.

Read more: What Happens At A Cabin Crew Assessment Day?

Low-cost airlines

Some airlines like to use seasonal cabin crew to meet their operational requirements. Low-cost airlines do have quite a high turnover of cabin crew, so they constantly need new staff members onboard. The rise of low-cost airlines has also driven up the number of flights available, so the amount of cabin crew has generally increased. Of course, also low prices attract customers, especially during the summer period and when children are away from school. So, extra cabin crew are always needed during this busy period.

Charter airlines

Charter airlines offering regular flights to popular holiday destinations tend to be much smaller and almost with a family atmosphere. These attract loyal cabin crew who go back season after season. The summer holiday period from April to October is when most crew are contracted. During the winter season, there will still be flights, but to different destinations and fewer people travel, so fewer crew are required. Cabin crew with good performance records will often be kept on during winter.

Family life

Sometimes the seasonal contract works well for cabin crew with families, as it suits their life/work balance better, They are not away so much, and most nights are spent at home. Sometimes the charter airlines will also offer part-time positions once the crew member has a few years of experience behind them. There may also be the possibility of being 'on call' during the winter season.

Students

The seasonal contract can also work well for students wanting to work during the summer break from university or college. So being cabin crew would be an advantageous thing to do and there may be the opportunity to stay down route occasionally, depending on what type of flights the airline operates. There is also the possibility of working away from home base in another city or being based in a different country.

Career break

For those wanting a career break, a seasonal contract as cabin crew offers a respite from everyday work life and an opportunity to try something new. They might love it or hate it, as the role is more of a lifestyle than anything. The role is also heavily misconstrued. It is not glamorous, just being a waiter/waitress who night stops around the world. Being cabin crew is not right for everyone and a lot of people leave during training because they have misunderstood the job and the amount of hard work it entails. Also, the short contract is an ideal testing ground for people who want to try out a cabin crew job but are unsure if they'd like it. After six months of flying as cabin crew, you will definitely know if It's for you.