Disadvantages of Working as a Cabin Crew Member at Emirates Airlines
I’ve heard on various platforms that the disadvantages of working as a cabin crew member at Emirates Airlines are numerous. Right from the start, you are dealing with high workloads day in and day out, and you pay for these exceptional benefits with your time. The mornings begin early, with staff preparing for flights and attending pre-flight briefings that are unpaid. You may not even have had a substantial breakfast.
When the work truly begins, it can be challenging. Sometimes, you encounter rudely behaved passengers and must maintain a professional demeanor while dealing with them. There may be situations where you find it difficult to voice your concerns or complaints without worrying about the consequences. Additionally, you must adhere to extremely high standards of appearance.
Another significant downside is the time you spend away from your loved ones. Most airlines, including other global carriers, have a certain level of union representation for their cabin crew. However, at Emirates Airlines, if a crew member has or had a mental disorder, they are immediately dismissed. This can be particularly harsh given the pressure faced by flight attendants.
High Workloads and Low Pay
Like many airlines, cabin crew members at Emirates deal with high workloads and relatively low pay, especially during the early stages of their career. They often have to handle unpredictable schedules and the uncertainty of knowing where they will be working next.
But with Emirates, the situation is particularly tough. You might put in a significant amount of effort to secure a job, only to be dismissed for any reason deemed suitable by the company. There is no legal recourse or compensation in such a scenario. Imagine losing your job, possibly having to return home on your own dime, thousands of miles away from your family and support network. Your resources in that remote location are practically nonexistent until you return to your home country.
Furthermore, stories of favoritism among the crew at Emirates are not uncommon. Speaking a foreign language, such as Arabic, can certainly be an asset, but language alone does not guarantee a favorable career path. This discrimination can further exacerbate the difficulties faced by crew members.
Unofficial Age Cutoff
Not all of the disadvantages are unique to Emirates Airlines, but many of them are. One notable point is the unofficial age cutoff of 30 years for being accepted as cabin crew there. This policy can significantly impact the career prospects of many individuals.
It's essential to take these insights with a grain of salt. While the information provided can serve as a general guide, individual experiences can vary. If you're considering a career as a cabin crew member at Emirates, it's crucial to weigh these potential disadvantages against the benefits and understand the unique challenges you might face.