LIFESTYLE SERIES
By Matt Palmer, Freelance Photojournalist
“A DAY IN THE LIFE OF”…………
an International Flight Attendant
Name: Danielle Hanson
Age: 23
Current Location: United Arab Emirates.
Birthplace: Adelaide, South Australia.
Job Description: International Flight Attendant, United Arab Emirates based with a leading International Airline* for the past 10 months.
What brings you back to Adelaide?
I am back on holidays for a few weeks as all my family are here, this is my hometown and I love getting back here to see family and friends.
Why did you choose this career and this particular airline?
I wanted to experience the world, travel and the many cultures around the world so I chose this profession and this airline because of its reputation for traveling to more destinations around the world than any other airline.
What is a standard pre flight schedule for you from home to take-off?
A standard day can run something like this.
- Pickup from apartment 3 hours prior to outbound flight
- Go through Immigration and Customs at airport
- Get Pre-flight briefing – discuss destinations, and do safe talk ( safe talk is crucial as any non compliance with answers will see you offloaded)
- Security checks – On board safety checks and general pre-flight preparations
How is your regular flight roster constructed?
Our rosters are dependant on the flights scheduled and the times associated with those flights. Our roster is created from a pool of over 14,000 crew who are all based in United Arab Emirates.
What has been a recent weekly flight schedule example?
Our roster and schedule changes from week to week. Just prior to flying home to Australia, I worked a week as follows:
- Sunday – Midday – Outbound flight to Istanbul, TURKEY
- Monday – 8am – Return flight to UAE – Afternoon rest day
- Tuesday – Rest day
- Wednesday – 2am – Outbound flight to Rome, Italy. Layover Wednesday night
- Thursday – Day in Rome – Midnight – Return flight to UAE
- Friday – Rest day
- Saturday – am – Outbound flight to Kuwait – 11pm – return flight to UAE
What has been your favourite destination/s during your travels in this role?
Mauritius would have to be my favourite international destination as it is an island paradise. It is French colonized, African locals, and the weather is warm, the marine life is amazing and it is so healthy and clean, and the European cuisine is just exquisite. I am accommodated in a resort complex when there, so it is just amazing. I have been able to enjoy water-skiing, snorkeling, parasailing, visiting waterfalls and just taking in the truly relaxing environment…and the local brewed rum is a hit!
What is your favourite International city?
Paris by far due to its exciting “vibe” and the electricity it presents. The food is great and you can walk to all attractions such as The Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame. I love the fashion strips, cafes and restaurants.
What would be the most UNIQUE destinations you have been and why?
There is a couple. Firstly, I would say Capetown in South Africa as you have typical African countryside meeting the urban expanse of a big city, and impressive beaches, mountains etc. To me it is like a snapshot of the whole country in one location. Secondly, I would say Christchurch in New Zealand for its gorgeous history, buildings and crisp, fresh environment, and the New Zealand people are extremely hospitable.
What do you love most about your job?
I love traveling the world experiencing many different locations, cultures and backgrounds. It has really opened my eyes to what the world has to offer.
Is there and culture in particular that you have warmed to?
The Italian culture – they are such friendly, helpful, vibrant and hospitable people and of course the food is great.
Are there any challenges you face in your job that stand out?
Yes….aggressive passengers always challenge me.
What are your future plans with your career?
I have every intention on returning to my hometown of Adelaide, and staying within the travel industry. My family is based here and my home is where my heart is. My life experience of seeing the world will leave me with memories to last me a lifetime.
Do you have a favourite location in your hometown, Adelaide?
Henley Beach – I have many childhood memories and family links with Henley Beach and my grandparents lived there for much of their life. I just love going there and walking the beach, visiting the jetty and the Henley Beach Square.
Do you have a favourite Australian location?
Other than home, Perth would have to be my favourite Australian location. I love that it is just like a big country town, similar to Adelaide, and people are friendly, the city is clean, and it has a feeling of being untouched.
What is your schedule when you return to work from this holiday break at home?
Well, when I return to work, I am scheduled to do outbound flights to Brisbane, Auckland and New Delhi, INDIA, and then I have a 1-week holiday in Greece. Yes, I know, it is tough! Ha-ha.
Written and photographed by:
Matt Palmer, Freelance Photojournalist
Adelaide, South Australia
www.snapphotographic.com
M: 0410120705
E: snap.photographic@gmail.comKind regards
Matt Palmer
SNAP Photographic
snap.photographic@gmail.com
0410120705
