Perspectives and Job Decision-Making of Flight Attendants after the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study is a qualitative phenomenological research that explores the perspectives and career decision-making of flight attendants after the Covid-19 pandemic. Its objectives are to examine the perspectives and career decisions of flight attendants and to study the factors influencing flight attendants' decisions to return to their profession following the Covid-19 pandemic. The study used in-depth interviews with two groups: flight attendants who had returned to work, and former flight attendants who no longer work in the profession, to reflect the participants' life experiences. Data were analyzed by identifying key statements, interpreting meanings, and grouping themes. The findings revealed that the perspectives and career decisions regarding being a flight attendant were generally positive, consisting of: 1) the career’s image; 2) appropriate income and benefits; 3) the nature of the job; and 4) alignment with personal goals. Factors that supported flight attendants in returning to their original careers after the Covid-19 pandemic included: 1) management and policies of each airline company; 2) life experiences; 3) confidence in the profession; and 4) job structure and working conditions.