FAQ: Frequently asked questions   

  • What are the language requirements at SWISS? 

    German and English are essential for a career as a cabin crew member. Employees with good French, Italian or Spanish skills receive additional remuneration.  It goes without saying that other languages are advantageous when it comes to communicating with our international clientele.  

    In general, no specific diplomas or certificates are required. However, we recommend that you hold level B2 for English and level A2/B1 for French, Spanish or Italian in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

  • What other documents does SWISS need with my application? 
    In order to process a portfolio, we need all the documents that are listed in the online application:
    • Letter of motivation
    • CV
    • 1 new passport photo
    • 1 new full-length body photo
    • Copies of all diplomas, certificates and references and your last school certificate
  • What is the salary of a Cabin Crew Member? 

    The basic salary from the first day of training for:
    G/F/E/I/S-speaking employees is CHF 3,400.00
    G/E-speaking employees is CHF 3,300.00

    Trainees with no professional experience as cabin crew members will receive a reduced gross salary of 2000 CHF during the first month of employment. In the event that the employee in question remains with SWISS as a cabin crew member, he or she will receive a reimbursement after completing 12 full months of service.

    We also operate a profit-sharing scheme that is paid in addition to the basic salary. Payment is based on the profit (EBIT) margin.

    Separate payments are made for expenses incurred abroad. SWISS covers uniform purchase and laundering.

  • What opportunities for career developement will I have as a Cabin Crew Member? 
    There are various career development options that are based on requirement and suitability. For instance, it is possible to sit a professional examination to become a Flight Attendant after 2 years, and to acquire a Swiss Federal Certificate of Proficiency. This certificate will enable you to act as an instructor on board, and to introduce new colleagues to the job of Cabin Crew Member. The certificate is the basis for your subsequent career development.
    It is also possible to receive training to work in First Class or as a Cabin Crew Manager on short-haul flights.
  • Are tattoos/piercings/tooth jewellery allowed? 
    Visible piercings (including tooth and tongue piercings) are not permitted during working hours, i.e. when in uniform, and also during basic training. Tattoos must be covered by the uniform (skirt for ladies). We do not permit them to be covered by make-up or plasters.
  • Do I have to live in or near Zurich? 
    No, it is not necessary to live near Zurich. Many of our employees live elsewhere. However, do bear in mind that flight shifts begin and/or end between 5:00 am and 11:00 pm. Those working these shifts may not be able to travel to and from work using public transport. Long journey times could place additional stress on the individual. If you are on stand-by duty, you will be required to arrive at work within one hour.
  • When does the cabin crew member training begin, and how long does it last? 
    Basic training courses currently begin on a monthly basis.  The course lasts approx. 3 months and is divided into the following blocks:
    • 4 weeks’ theoretical training covering topics such as service and medical / emergency procedures
    • 2 months’ practical induction in an aircraft
    • Final course lasting one week, followed by diploma award ceremony
  • What are the downsides of the job? 
    Time differences are challenging, and the high levels of work in the areas of service and safety require you to be able to work under pressure and to be resilient. Last-minute changes, working on public holidays and at weekends, and the sometime tricky accommodation of holiday requests all require a certain amount of flexibility.