The differences of a commercial flight attendant versus a corporate flight attendant
The role of a corporate flight attendant is to provide the highest level of safety and VIP service to aircraft owners and passengers on noncommercial aircraft such as corporate jets and charter planes. Yet many do not really understand the duties and responsibilities of a corporate flight attendant. Below we share some of the key differences of working on a commercial aircraft versus working on a private jet.
Single Person Operations
In most corporate jets and charter operations, you will be flying alone and have to take on the full responsibility for safety and service in the cabin. This means that you will need to plan ahead and understand passengers’ requirements, from meal planning, bed service and even down to looking after the flight crew (pilots) needs.
In certain operations which involve large jets and airliners, there may be two or more flight attendants where you need to work as a team with other flight attendants.
Catering
On commercial aircraft, the meals are usually pre-plated and loaded onto the aircraft prior to the flight and served at specified times. Meals are prepared by the assigned caterer determined by the airline and the flight attendant will need to set up the meal carts in a specific manner.
On private jets, the corporate flight attendant will have to devise a menu according to the passengers profile plus any special requests received from your main point of contact, whether it is the PA of the aircraft owner, or from the charter sales department. Upon approval of the menu, you will have to then place the order directly with specialized VIP caterers and/or ground handlers, and often, it may include other basic needs such as dry stores. You will also need to liaise closely with the caterers to ensure prompt delivery prior to the flight and organize them properly in the galley.
Inflight Service
On commercial aircraft, meals are served at a specific time with variations in the class (economy; business; first class). Guidelines are also provided by the airline management on how to serve and how to plate (which only applies to first class).
On private jets, the meals are cooked or heated up, and plated by the corporate flight attendant to five-star restaurant quality. Inflight service is also on demand, whenever and however the passenger wants it, which may be quite challenging for a single corporate flight attendant operating on a full flight with 13 or more passengers depending on the aircraft size. In addition, you will also need to understand different types of service such as caviar; afternoon tea; canapes service; Asian service and more. Knowledge of fine wines and other types of premium alcohol and spirits will also be advantageous.
Ground Duties
On private jets, the galley must always be kept stocked, so you will often have to purchase them yourself or order them through the caterer prior to the flight. Sometimes, you might also get specific or unusual requests from the passengers such as a specific brand of tea or champagne that might be hard to source at the last minute. Thus, building strong relationships with ground handlers and caterers are often your best bet and your best resources in times of need. After the flight, you will also need to ensure the cleanliness of the aircraft, ready for the next flight.
Scheduling
Commercial flight attendants usually receive their schedules from the airlines at least two weeks before their first assignment or flight, with full information on each leg, accommodation and transportation details, layover time etc.
However, depending on your employment terms and contract, you may be on permanent standby and can be called anytime to attend to a flight request. For some private jet operations, corporate flight attendants may be put on rotation, such as 20 days on, 10 days off, and sometimes, your rotation or shift may be extended depending on the demand or passenger request. Your rest hours may also differ depending on the aircraft operations, i.e. Part 91 or Part 135.
Training
A commercial flight attendant usually goes through proper training designed by the airline, and they will have to follow the specific guidelines set out by the airline.
Depending on the aircraft operations, corporate flight attendants may or may not receive training from the employer, and will have to pick up skills along their career journey. However, it is always recommended for a corporate flight attendant to get themselves trained to ensure they are able to deliver high standards to increase their employability and hiring chances.