Frequently asked Questions
General questions or topics you might be wondering about before you start you cabin crew training journey and your career as a qualified cabin crew member.
1
Do I need a Grade 12 certificate to do the training?
No Grade 12 certificate is needed to do the training to obtain your cabin crew license and certificate. Some Airlines might require the Grade 12 certificate when you apply for a vacancy.
2
What qualifications do I need to become a Cabin Crew Member?
Most airlines require a matric certificate (Grade 12), fluency in English, and the ability to swim. Additional languages and customer service experience are a plus.
3
How long does cabin crew training take?
Initial training typically lasts 4–8 weeks, depending on the airline and regulatory requirements. It covers safety, service, CRM, and emergency procedures.
4
What topics are covered in cabin crew training?
• Aviation safety and emergency procedures
• First aid and medical scenarios
• Crew Resource Management (CRM)
• Dangerous goods handling
• Passenger service and cultural sensitivity
• Child and infant handling procedures
• Regulatory compliance (e.g., SACAA, ICAO)
5
Is cabin crew training hard?
It’s intensive and fast-paced. Trainees must pass written exams, practical drills, and simulations. Emotional resilience and teamwork are key.
6
What is CRM and how is it taught?
Crew Resource Management focuses on communication, decision-making, and teamwork. It’s taught through role-play, case studies, and scenario-based learning.
7
What does competency-based training mean for cabin crew?
It ensures trainees demonstrate practical skills—not just theoretical knowledge. Assessments are performance-based and mapped to real-world tasks.
8
How are competencies assessed?
Through simulations, drills, peer evaluations, and instructor-led assessments. Each competency has clear performance criteria.
What are the requirements?
You need to be fluent in English. Speaking, reading and writing English is essential as all classes are in English. English is also the International Aviation Language.
Do you need a matric certificate to do the course?
NO, it is not needed to do the course, but some companies might require it for job applications.
Do you assist with job applications?
Yes we do.
We take you through the whole process and explain what you can expect from different companies and interview processes.
How old do you need to be to become a Cabin Crew Member / Flight Attendant?
You need to be 18 to write the SACAA exam to obtain your license. You can make this a life long career as there is no maximum age as long as you are medically fit to fly.
Does Big Sky accept foreign (non-South African) students?
Do I need a cabin crew medical certificate to do the training?
YES we do, everyone is welcome to join.
It is advised that you do the medical prior to starting the course. Kindley contact our office to assist you with contact details for an Aviation doctor in your area. You may do the medical during your course as there is a doctor available close to the school. Your medical certificate is needed to apply for your Cabin Crew license.