Want to work as a flight attendant for South African Airways (SAA)? This guide covers SAA cabin crew requirements, the hiring process, salary details, training, and benefits.
Minimum Requirements for Flight Attendants at SAA
South African Airways hires flight attendants with specific qualifications to ensure they meet the demands of the job. Here's what you need:
- A Grade 12 diploma
- Fluency in English
- A valid Class 4 Medical Certificate
- Minimum height of 1.58m
- Physical fitness
Most airlines, including SAA, require candidates to be at least 1.58m tall, physically fit, and proficient in English. Ready to apply? You need a Grade 12 diploma, fluency in English, and a valid Class 4 Medical Certificate.
The Hiring Process
The journey from application to your first flight can take several months. The hiring process includes online applications, interviews, medical exams, and six to eight weeks of training in safety, first aid, and customer service.
SAA does not have a fixed recruitment schedule, and SAA doesn’t always have open recruitment. When applying, make sure your CV highlights customer service experience, language skills, and teamwork.
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Important Note: Be careful and do not provide your bank or credit card details when applying for jobs.
Training and Development
After successfully navigating the hiring process, new flight attendants undergo six to eight weeks of comprehensive training. This training covers:
- Safety procedures
- First aid
- Customer service excellence
Salary and Benefits
Salaries for SAA flight attendants start at approximately R 146,400 per year.
Here's a table summarizing the key requirements for flight attendant positions:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Matric Certificate / Grade 12 results / N3 or relevant tertiary qualifications (SAQA accredited) |
| Compulsory Subjects | Mathematics or Statistics 101 and English (D symbol on higher grade or C symbol on standard grade) coupled with one of the following: Physical Science or Computer Science (D symbol on higher grade or C symbol on standard grade) |
| License | A valid ATPL License must be obtained within 4 years from date of employment with SAA with a multi engine instrument rating |
| Passport | Valid Passport |
| Knowledge | Expertise in safety standards, national and international aviation regulations (CAA, ICAO, IATA, FAA, EASA), international travel customs |
| Skills | Business communication, ability to work under pressure |
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Additional Requirements for Pilots
Here are some additional requirements for pilots:
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- Type rating: Not required (Training Provided)
- License req: Frozen ATPL, IR, ME
- Open to Lic. Holders: SACAA
Must have expertise in the application of safety standards and safe operating practices. Demonstrate a firm understanding of international travel, international customs and practices etc. Knowledge of all legal regulations for the piloting/aviation profession in the South African and international regulatory environment. Business communication skills (verbal and written). Ability to work under pressure (organisational resilience with change management focus).
Costs: Yes, but costs depend on the airline’s hiring policy at the time.
For more advice, join our cabin crew forum, where experienced professionals offer tips and guidance. We’d love to hear your thoughts!
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