Flight Attendant Background Check

Question:

I have been reading that airlines will conduct a flight attendant background check on you before you are hired. Can you tell me how far back they go and what they are looking for? I have a misdemeanor on my record. Can I still be hired? Thank you for your time.

Answer:

Because you will be working in a post 9/11 safety and security sensitive environment, airlines will perform a pre-employment background check before you are officially hired. Typically, this check will be performed by a third party security company hired by the airline, although some airlines have in-house staff able to perform the check. Most background checks will delve into your history for the 10 years preceding employment. The check will include but not be limited to FBI fingerprints, background on your work history, driving record, drug usage and even credit checks. You will not be hired if you have a felony on your record. If you had a DUI or misdemeanor within the ten-year period, you may still be hired at the discretion of the airline hiring you. One of the driving factors an airline will look at when hiring you with a DUI or misdemeanor is the amount of time that has lapsed since the offense. Also keep in mind that even if you pass the background check and are hired, you will still be subjected to random drug and alcohol tests throughout your employment.

For a more comprehensive discussion of background checks, minimum qualifications and other topics that will help you decide if you should pursue a flight attendant career, check out our book, “Is a Flight Attendant Career Right for You?”

Good luck!

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