What is a normal schedule for a flight attendant?

Flight attendant hiring/scheduling question?

• I am currently in process of phone interviews with a major airline for a flight attendant position. When I applied for the position they were very specific about me needing a passport and being able to speak japanese/english. They were looking for bilingual so I applied. My question is, does that automatically mean they are hiring for international flight attendants? Or would i be starting off domestic? Also, I know that when you are new, you are on "reserve" status. Does that apply for international as well? and what does a "reserve" schedule mean exactly? I dont mind having to work nights/weekends/holidays just as long as i have set days off that are guarenteed days off. My husband is in the military so it would be nice to at least be guarenteed a couple days off a week so I can spend time with him. Please only serious answers, and preferably from someone who works for an airline or knows someone who does. Thanks for your help in advance!

• Answer:

  Only the airline can answer about if you will be flying internationally right away. It all depends on their operational needs. A reserve schedule means you have no set schedule and are on call for a certain number of days each month, usually 18-20 days. And yes that applies for international. Schedules are bid for on a seniority basis, so you will get the least desirable reserve line. Days off are never "guaranteed"; again it is the operational needs of an airline. If for instance you are on a 4 day trip and after the 4th day you are supposed to be off and plan to go home, it is possible that your flight will be delayed or canceled, or you will be re-routed due to weather or a mechanical issue and you will work into your day off. Normally you will have a compensating day off. When you are on reserve, you will be called for a trip to fill in for a flight attendant who is sick, on vacation, or had his or her trip changed due to the above mentioned weather, mechanical, etc. Often you have as little as 2 hours notice to report to the airport in uniform ready to depart on a trip, possible for multiple days. On the plus side; you will have great flight benefits so will be able to fly for free or very little to meet your husband wherever he is, and your husband will have no-fee privileges on your airline. You may have to relocate to be near the airport where you are based. Good luck! It is a great job, but it is not for everyone. If the recruiter feels during your phone interview that you will not be flexible about days off or relocating, they will probably eliminate you.