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Can I be a flight attendant with a felony?

Can I be a Flight Attendant with a Felony?

The dream of soaring through the skies, serving passengers, and experiencing the thrill of flight can be a tantalizing prospect for many. However, for individuals with a felony conviction, the path to becoming a flight attendant may seem daunting. In this article, we’ll delve into the answer to this question and explore the possibilities of pursuing a career as a flight attendant with a felony.

What is a Felony?

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Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand what a felony is. A felony is a serious crime that is punishable by more than one year in prison. Felonies can range from violent crimes like murder, assault, and robbery to non-violent crimes like fraud, embezzlement, and drug trafficking.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Requirements

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for regulating the aviation industry in the United States. To become a flight attendant, you must meet the FAA’s requirements, which include:

  • Being at least 18 years old
  • Being able to read, speak, write, and understand English
  • Passing a background check
  • Completing a training program approved by the FAA
  • Holding a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

Can I be a Flight Attendant with a Felony?

The short answer is: it depends. The FAA does not explicitly prohibit individuals with felony convictions from becoming flight attendants. However, the agency does require that applicants undergo a background check, which may reveal prior felony convictions.

Background Check and Disqualifying Factors

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) conducts background checks on flight attendants as part of the FAA’s security requirements. The TSA uses a system called the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Screening Program for Transportation Workers (STW) to evaluate applicants.

The STW program considers the following factors when determining whether an individual is eligible to work in the transportation industry:

  • Type of offense: The type of felony conviction is crucial in determining eligibility. Violent crimes, such as murder, assault, and robbery, are more likely to disqualify an individual from becoming a flight attendant. Non-violent crimes, such as fraud, embezzlement, and drug trafficking, may not necessarily disqualify an individual, but the severity and circumstances of the crime will be taken into consideration.

  • Time since conviction: The amount of time that has passed since the felony conviction is also a factor. Recent convictions may be more likely to disqualify an individual, while older convictions may be less of a concern.

  • Other factors: The TSA may also consider other factors, such as the individual’s criminal history, employment history, and personal references.

Airlines’ Policies

While the FAA does not explicitly prohibit individuals with felony convictions from becoming flight attendants, airlines may have their own policies regarding hiring individuals with criminal records. Some airlines may have more stringent requirements or restrictions on hiring individuals with felony convictions.

Table: Airlines’ Policies on Hiring Individuals with Felony Convictions

AirlinePolicy
American AirlinesMay consider hiring individuals with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis
Delta Air LinesDoes not hire individuals with felony convictions
United AirlinesMay consider hiring individuals with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis
Southwest AirlinesDoes not hire individuals with felony convictions

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it is possible to become a flight attendant with a felony conviction, it is not a guarantee. The FAA’s background check process and the airlines’ policies on hiring individuals with felony convictions play a significant role in determining eligibility.

Tips for Individuals with Felony Convictions

If you’re considering a career as a flight attendant with a felony conviction, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Be honest: Be truthful about your criminal history during the application process.
  • Provide context: Be prepared to provide context about your felony conviction, including the circumstances surrounding the crime and any efforts you’ve made to rehabilitate yourself.
  • Highlight rehabilitation: Highlight any efforts you’ve made to rehabilitate yourself, such as completing rehabilitation programs or volunteering in your community.
  • Research airlines’ policies: Research the airlines’ policies on hiring individuals with felony convictions and tailor your application accordingly.

By understanding the FAA’s requirements and the airlines’ policies on hiring individuals with felony convictions, you can better navigate the process and increase your chances of becoming a flight attendant.

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