If you are thinking of applying for cabin crew jobs, you will firstly need to be aware of the medical test you’ll need to pass. A cabin crew medical is required for all new members before they start work and will need to be repeated at least every 5 years. Ensuring that cabin crew staff are fit and healthy helps to maintain the overall safety of a flight. It is a demanding job that requires you to be on your feet for long periods of time and you’ll need to be able to cope with long hours, night flights and changes in time zones. Before you apply for a vacancy, please read on for the ultimate checklist for your cabin crew medical test.
1.CAA or EASA Cabin Crew Medical?
If you are considering a career in the cabin crew sector, understanding the differences between the CAA and EASA’s medical requirements is not just advisable, it’s necessary. These authorities, while both committed to maintaining high safety standards, operate within different geographical scopes and have differing regulations. The CAA’s remit is UK-focused, while EASA operates across the EU member states. Each has its own set of medical assessments for cabin crew members, so knowing which applies to your situation is key to a smooth application process.
2.Cabin Crew Medical Requirements
Being a cabin crew member is a challenging role that necessitates physical stamina and mental resilience to handle long hours, frequent flights, and irregular schedules. Prior to embarking on this career, it’s key to undergo a medical test to ensure you’re medically fit. This comprehensive examination involves:
Providing a detailed medical history, highlighting any prior conditions or concerns.
- Passing numerous tests, including those for blood pressure, hearing, eyesight, and overall fitness.
- Demonstrating the ability to reach overhead lockers, crucial for in-flight procedures.
- Withholding any relevant medical information could lead to delays in the issuance of your medical certificate and ultimately your job commencement.
The medical exam not only scrutinises your current health but also evaluates your capability to perform critical cabin crew duties. These include emergency procedures like slide descending and firefighting, operating the aircraft’s emergency systems and equipment, and managing high-stress situations. Your ability to work in diverse conditions, such as at high altitudes, in pressurised and recirculated air, and during turbulence, is also assessed. This rigorous evaluation ensures you’re adequately equipped to meet the demanding expectations of a cabin crew member.
3.Why Cabin Crew Members Need a Medical
You might be surprised at some of the reasons why you need a medical before you can be accepted onto a cabin crew team. There’s no denying that this is a physically and mentally demanding job, that requires stamina, great customer service skills and a calm approach, but if you speak to any experienced crew member they will tell you the real reasons why you need this medical:
Endurance and Physical Stamina: Cabin crew roles often involve extended periods on your feet, serving passengers or performing other duties. A medical assessment ensures you have the necessary resilience and physical strength to endure long hours without compromising your health.
Range of Motion and Flexibility: Cabin crew frequently need to reach overhead compartments, bend, or stretch in confined spaces. Medical checks evaluate your physical flexibility to ensure you can perform such actions without causing injury.
Emergency Preparedness: In case of an emergency, cabin crew are the first responders. They need to be physically fit to handle stressful situations, provide first aid, or even evacuate passengers. Medical evaluations assess this ability to handle emergencies efficiently.
Adaptability to Irregular Schedules: Irregular meal hours and sleep patterns are common in the life of a cabin crew member due to time zone changes and flight schedules. A medical check ensures your body can adapt to these irregularities, maintaining a healthy balance.
Immunity Strength: Cabin crew are exposed to a variety of germs due to the diverse passenger mix and closed cabin environment. Medical assessments gauge your immune system strength, ensuring you are ready to handle this exposure without falling ill frequently.
4. Keeping Fit for Your Medical Test
If you’re determined to make a career in the skies, it’s time to get serious about your cabin crew responsibilities and ensure you are in the best possible mental and physical health to help you pass your medical. Here are some tips to stay physically and mentally fit ahead of your medical:
Regular Exercise: Regular exercise can improve your stamina and cardiovascular fitness, which will be beneficial during the medical assessment.
Core Strength: Building up your core strength can help you meet the physical demands of the cabin crew job.
Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding processed foods and alcohol can bolster your immune system and overall health.
Mental Health: Address any stress or mental health concerns by talking to someone or seeking professional help. This will not only alleviate stress but also ensure your mental fitness for the job.
Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, into your routine. These can help manage stress and improve mental well-being.
Adequate Sleep: Cabin crew members often have irregular sleep patterns. Ensure you prioritise sleep to maintain your health and performance.
Self-Care: Prioritise self-care, including taking breaks when needed and doing activities you enjoy. This will help maintain your mental health and overall well-being.
Regular Medical Check-ups: Regular medical check-ups can help identify any health issues early and ensure your physical fitness for the job.
5.Where to Book Your Medical
Now that you’ve got all the information on what to expect from your medical, why you need one and how to prepare for it, it’s time to book your appointment. Cabin crew medicals can be performed either by an Aeromedical Centre (AeMC) or via an Aeromedical Examiner (AME). To find your local AeMC or AME you can search online or visit Heathrow Medical Services, an AeMC located close to Heathrow Airport, that offers a range of aviation medicals including both the CAA and EASA cabin crew medical tests.
For further information on what to expect from cabin crew roles or other jobs within the aviation industry you can seek advice from careers advisors such as the National Careers Service or visit aviation job websites to learn more about the latest available roles.
