Turbulence is an occupational hazard that we all take very seriously. Recently, our flying partners have confronted the dangers of turbulence on several flights around the system. Especially in light of these events, it is a good time to remember that every day we fly, when it comes to cabin safety, place yourself and your flying partners first. It is only through these efforts that we may fulfill our duties as safety professionals for the passengers in our care. To minimize injuries caused in turbulence or chop, stow all but the most necessary service components when the service is over, especially carts, full coffee pots, and glass bottles. Use of tie downs for carts is not only a federal regulation, diligent use of tie downs and latches will prevent disaster.

A pay philosophy is a company's commitment to how it values employees. A consistent pay philosophy gives the company and the employee a frame of reference when discussing salary in a negotiation. The goal of a pay philosophy is to attract, retain, and motivate employees. For companies in the private sector, this usually requires a competitive pay philosophy. For companies in the public sector, this means a well-rounded philosophy, with a focus on benefits and work life. Companies attract, motivate, and retain through total compensation... learn more>>

General Information

Even though the airlines are in business to transport people from one place to another, they could not function without the help of many people on the ground, including those who take reservations and sell tickets, as well as those who help keep the airplanes operating on schedule.

Position Description
The passenger service agent (PSA), works at the airport and responds to passengers needing special assistance.

Working Conditions
The passenger service agent acts as a ground host or hostess and is highly visible and helpful to the public. Passenger service agents provide assistance and related customer services at the ticket counter, gate and baggage areas, and concourse of the airline they serve. Duties include servicing customers by performing meet and greets, check-in, aircraft boarding and deplaning, ticketing, baggage service, making boarding, deplaning and public announcements, providing connecting flight information and direction assistance, and handling unruly, upset, or angry passengers.

A wide variety of challenges characterize this job. It is not unusual for the PSA to step in and assist and perform the duties of ticket agent and/or station agent or supervise the ticket office. They answer questions and offer information covering a wide variety of airline and/or airport related topics. In addition to providing information, they help passengers pass through the airport from the ticket counter to boarding. They also tend to ill, handicapped, elderly, injured and small children traveling alone who need special assistance. This may include an electric cart or wheel chair to expedite or ease movement through long concourses.

Since 9/11, a greater role is being placed on security and PSA's often play a vital role in the security of the airport and passengers by conducting security checks at the gate.

The PSA is a highly visible employee, and usually wears uniform. Passenger service agents are present anytime passengers are present, and generally supervise and assist in concourse operations to ensure smooth operation and customer satisfaction. The PSA must be knowledgeable of all airline procedures and policies to instill customer confidence, show genuine concern, and help operations run smooth.

Typical Requirements and/or Experience
It is essential that passenger service agents provide excellent customer service. A thorough knowledge of flight schedules and ground services is necessary. If employed by an international airline, PSA's may need 2nd language skills. Experience as a ticket or reservations agent is helpful. The responsibilities of this position demand a detail-oriented and organized individual with the ability to read, write and speak English. Ability to work shifts including early mornings, late nights, weekends and holidays. Basic computer skills are helpful.

Education
High school diploma or GED.

View more detailed information on Passenger Service Agent Jobs...

Denver, CO: Nationally recognized award-winning aviation artist, Joe Jones proudly launches "Joe Jones' Airmail Greetings", his new "all aviation theme" greeting card line.

Over the next several years Jones will be working full throttle to thoughtfully depict five main areas of aviation, GA, Warbird, Vintage, Corporate Jet and Turbo Prop, and Commercial Airlines. Along with a custom design service, Jones will also be developing work to both help recognize and gratefully thank many of the unsung heroes in aviation. From bush pilots and aviation system testers to airline attendants and ground personnel, Jones vows to help send a spotlight to all that live and work as the backbone of aviation today.

As one example, have you ever once seen a congratulations card for First Solo, Instrument rating, Tail Wheel, Float Plane endorsement or Commercial rating? Jones will be the very first artist in the field to ever develop an entire line of signature greeting cards to help celebrate many of the achievements and milestones in the lives and hearts of aviators around the world. Along with the new congratulation card line, "Airmail Greetings" will be introducing holiday, thank you, good luck, retirement, birthday, get well, and much needed aviation sympathy cards honoring all that have flown West.

Please visit him at: www.airmail-greetings.com

For the aviation job seeker, as well as the career switcher, demonstrating the willingness and ability to learn new skills can help put you over the top with a prospective employer.

Whether you are new to the industry or interested in obtaining additional certificates and/or licenses, AVSchools makes researching and finding an aviation college, university, flight school or professional training facility simple. Read school profiles, ask questions and request information.

Training opportunities are plentiful in both the private and public sectors. With AVSchools, you will find the right educational facility that meets your needs.

Are you playing the employers game the way they expect you to?

Always follow up & interviews with thank-you letters, phone calls, and, when appropriate, resumes that have been revised based on information and suggestions provided by managers. Even if managers have no positions available, once they have had personal interaction with you, they may think of you the next time they have, or hear of, an appropriate opening.

It is critical to stay in touch with these managers, at least on a bi-monthly basis.