Top 10+ International Flight Attendant Courses in South Africa

Flight attendants are the friendly faces you see on aeroplanes, ensuring safety, comfort, and a smooth journey for everyone. But there’s so much more to it! And, there are certain courses they must complete to become one.

They’re not just there to serve drinks and snacks—they’re trained professionals who handle emergencies, offer a sense of calm, and make travelling a lot more enjoyable. If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the world, meeting new people, and making a real impact, this could be your perfect job.

In this article, we’re getting into the top 10+ flight attendant courses in South Africa that’ll give you some of the best options to get started in this field.

Flight Attendants
- What Does a Flight Attendant Do?
- Is a Flight Attendant and Air Hostess the Same?
Flight Attendant Courses in South Africa
Flight Attendant Courses Requirements in South Africa
How Much Does Flight Attendant School Cost in South Africa?
How Long is Flight Attendant School in South Africa?
Colleges that Offer Flight Attendant Courses in South Africa
FAQs
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

Flight Attendants

Flight attendants, also known as cabin crew, are the essential team members who ensure passenger safety and comfort during flights. They’re trained professionals who manage everything from emergencies to providing services like food and drinks.

While many people think of them as just the ones handing out snacks, their role is far more important than that. Generally, the people in this field are often misunderstood, so let’s clear that up!

First off, they are not all women, and they don’t fly every day – their schedules vary, and they often have breaks between flights. They don’t always go home every day either. Sometimes they’re away from home for a few days at a time, especially on international flights.

Another common misconception is about pregnancy. Flight attendants can get pregnant, but there are certain airline policies about when it’s okay to fly while pregnant. Typically, they can continue working up to about 28 weeks of pregnancy, but this depends on the airline’s rules and the safety of the pregnancy.

It’s not all glamour, though – the job is demanding, and they handle everything from emergencies to making sure passengers are comfortable. So, they do a lot more than just serve drinks!

Read: Best 15 FET College Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements

What Does a Flight Attendant Do?

A flight attendant’s job is all about keeping passengers safe and comfortable. They make sure everyone knows the safety rules, serves food and drinks, and is ready to handle any emergencies, big or small.

They ensure the cabin is tidy, assist with seating arrangements, and are there to help when a passenger needs something.

Their main job is to keep things running smoothly and make sure you’re comfortable and safe during your flight. It’s more than just serving snacks—it’s about making sure you’re okay from takeoff to landing.

Is a Flight Attendant and Air Hostess the Same?

Yes, a flight attendant and an air hostess are essentially the same. “Air hostess” is an older term, often used to describe female flight attendants. Today, “flight attendant” is the preferred term, as it’s gender-neutral and applies to both men and women working in this role.

Flight Attendant Courses in South Africa

Here’s a list of the best flight attendant courses in South Africa:

Cabin Crew Training Course
Flight Attendant Diploma
Aviation Hospitality and Cabin Service
Air Hostess/Steward Training Program
Aircraft Ground Handling Procedures
Aviation Customer Service and Hospitality
Aviation Security Awareness
Safety and Emergency Procedures Training (SEPT)
Aviation Law and Regulations
First Aid and CPR
Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity

1. Cabin Crew Training Course

The Cabin Crew Training Course is one of the best options if you’re serious about becoming a flight attendant. This course covers everything you need to know—from safety procedures to customer service.

You’ll learn how to manage emergencies, provide top-notch in-flight service, and ensure passengers are comfortable and secure. It’s not just about serving drinks; it’s about being a professional in every situation.

South African Airways offers this course at R15,200, per person, including VAT. The Course Cost includes: All training manuals and training materials. All costs associated with theory and practical training and assessments.

2. Flight Attendant Diploma

Many people dream of becoming a flight attendant, and the Flight Attendant Diploma is one of the best ways to make that dream a reality.

This course goes deep into what it takes to work in the sky. You’ll learn about in-flight safety, emergency procedures, customer service, communication skills, and even how to handle tricky situations. It’s a full package that prepares you for a real career.

A great place to go for this course in South Africa is at the S.MAB Training Academy. The course costs R20,770 with a non-refundable registration fee of R1000. You must begin with a deposit of R9385, and then make monthly instalment payments of R5192.50 for 2 months.

Also, read: List of NEMISA Free Courses | Fee Structure

3. Aviation Hospitality and Cabin Service

The Aviation Hospitality and Cabin Service course is perfect for those who want to specialize in making air travel a comfortable and pleasant experience for passengers. It focuses on hospitality, customer service, and cabin management, teaching you how to manage in-flight duties, serve passengers, and handle safety procedures.

You’ll also learn how to maintain the cabin, handle emergencies, and deliver excellent service that reflects the airline’s standards. If you’re looking to turn your passion for helping others into a career, this is a great course to consider.

South African Airways offers this course at R15,200 per person, including training manuals, materials, theory and practical training, assessments, and the SACAA Theory Exam fee. This cost does not include the Class 4 Medical Certificate, travel, meals, accommodation, re-training, re-assessment, or the SACAA CCM Licensing Fee.

4. Air Hostess/Steward Training Program

For this Air Hostess/Steward Training Program, you’ll be learning everything you need to know to work as a flight attendant.

The course covers a wide range of skills, from safety procedures and emergency protocols to offering excellent customer service.

You’ll gain a deep understanding of what it takes to manage the cabin, assist passengers, and keep the flight running smoothly. It’s one of the best options if you want a solid foundation in this career.

You can go for this course at the Cabin Crew Academy at R25 935 Including VAT (Payment Plans Available).

5. Aircraft Ground Handling Procedures

This course is all about the essential tasks that keep an aircraft ready for takeoff and safe while on the ground. You’ll learn about managing baggage, cargo handling, refuelling, safety checks, and coordinating with other ground crew.

It’s a key part of the aviation industry, ensuring everything runs smoothly before and after flights. It’s one of the top options for those interested in the behind-the-scenes action of air travel.

S.MAB Training Academy offers this course at R13,500, with a non-refundable registration fee of R1000. To enrol, you will be required to make an initial deposit of R6500, and then monthly instalment payments of R3000 for 2 months.

6. Aviation Customer Service and Hospitality

Customer service rules when it comes to making sure airline passengers feel cared for and safe.

The Aviation Customer Service and Hospitality course focuses on how to provide top-notch service to passengers, from handling complaints to making sure everyone has a smooth experience during their flight.

You’ll also learn about the hospitality aspect, making passengers feel at ease and comfortable. This course is perfect for anyone who loves interacting with people and wants to work in aviation.

This course is offered by The Academy of Aviation, and it includes the Initial Cabin Crew Silver Package for R42,905.74 and the CCM Initial Cabin Crew Course (Blue Package) for R29,795.10.

7. Aviation Security Awareness

When it comes to aviation security, it’s all about ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and the aircraft itself.

The Aviation Security Awareness course teaches you the essentials of identifying potential threats, understanding security protocols, and how to act quickly and efficiently in an emergency.

It’s one of the best courses for flight attendants because safety is priority number one. You’ll learn how to handle dangerous situations, from terrorism to onboard disturbances.

Cranefield Online offers this course at R1450.00 incl. VAT. Duration for 4 hours. This is considered one of the best online flight attendant courses in South Africa.

8. Safety and Emergency Procedures Training (SEPT)

This course is one of the most important for anyone looking to become a flight attendant, as it focuses on Safety and Emergency Procedures Training (SEPT).

It teaches you how to handle emergencies like fire outbreaks, medical issues, and evacuation procedures. You’ll learn how to stay calm under pressure and make quick decisions that can save lives.

The course is practical and hands-on, so you’ll practice everything from using fire extinguishers to performing CPR.

You can go for this course at Cranefield Aviation Training at R1450 Per Person either in class or online. The course lasts for 3 hours.

9. Aviation Law and Regulations

It’s easy to think of aviation law as something complicated, but it’s really about understanding the rules that keep everything running smoothly and safely in the skies.

Aviation Law and Regulations cover the legal aspects of flying—everything from passenger rights, airport regulations, and safety procedures to airline responsibilities.

You’ll get to learn about international standards, how airlines handle emergencies, and what the rules are for things like baggage and customs. This course is vital for anyone wanting to be a flight attendant because knowing the legal side ensures you follow the right protocols.

The University of Cape Town offers this course under its Fundamentals of Aviation Law course at R4,950 per person. It is one of the best flight attendant short courses, as well as one of the best flight attendant courses in Cape Town.

10. First Aid and CPR

When it comes to flying, First Aid and CPR training is essential for flight attendants. This course teaches you how to handle medical emergencies on board, from treating minor injuries to dealing with life-threatening situations like heart attacks.

You’ll learn how to perform CPR, how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator), how to handle bleeding, burns, and fractures, and even how to assist with medical evacuations if needed. It’s not just about knowledge—it’s about keeping passengers safe in the air.

National Firs t Aid Academy in South Africa offers this course at different levels and prices. Check out their official website for more details.

11. Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity

Let’s say you’re a flight attendant, and you’re flying with passengers from all over the world. Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity training is what helps you connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

This course teaches you how to understand and respect cultural differences, from how to communicate effectively with people who speak different languages to knowing what kind of behaviours might be considered rude or disrespectful in other cultures. It’s all about making passengers feel comfortable and valued.

The Mindspa Institute in South Africa offers this course at R3,000 per person. Alternatively, you can for this course at Optimi College at R3265

Flight Attendant Courses Requirements in South Africa

If you’re interested in becoming a flight attendant in South Africa, there are certain flight attendant courses and requirements you’ll need to meet. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s involved:

Medical Fitness: You’ll need to pass an aviation medical exam to ensure you’re fit for the role.
Age: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of writing the SACAA exam, with the maximum age being 40 years old.
Educational Qualification: A Grade 12 certificate or equivalent (NQF Level 4).
Language Proficiency: You must be fluent in English – both reading, writing, and speaking.
Medical Certificate: A valid Class 4 Medical Certificate issued by a SACAA Designated Medical Examiner (it cannot be done by a general practitioner).
Swimming Ability: You must be able to swim with the aid of a life jacket.
Physical Fitness: Meet the airline’s specified height and weight standards.

How Much Does Flight Attendant School Cost in South Africa?

Flight attendant training in South Africa usually costs anywhere from R15,200 to R30,770, depending on the school.

Prices can vary based on the course details and how long it lasts, so it’s a good idea to check with the schools you’re interested in to find one that works best for you and your budget!

How Long is Flight Attendant School in South Africa?

Flight attendant school in South Africa typically lasts 8 weeks. At S. MAB Training Academy, most of the training happens on-site, but some days will involve external venues, especially for practical training and assessments. It’s a hands-on course that helps you get ready for real-life situations in the skies!

Colleges that Offer Flight Attendant Courses in South Africa

See the best flight attendant courses schools in South Africa:

1. UNISA

UNISA is a great option for flight attendant training under its Airpot Transport course, especially if you need flexibility. Their online courses give you a solid foundation in aviation and allow you to study at your own pace. It’s well-respected and offers quality education.

2. South African Airways Training Academy

The South African Airways Training Academy is one of the best places to train if you want to become a flight attendant. You’ll get hands-on training from experienced professionals, and the academy is closely connected to the airline industry. It’s a solid choice for an aviation career.

3. Skyy Aviation Academy

Skyy Aviation Academy is a great place to kickstart your flight attendant career. They combine classroom lessons with hands-on training, so you’re well-prepared for the job. The staff is super helpful, and the atmosphere is welcoming, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting to work in aviation.

FAQs

Is South Africa good for flight attendant training?

Yes, South Africa offers excellent flight attendant training with accredited schools, comprehensive courses, and hands-on experience, making it a great place to start your career.

Which university can I study flight attendant in South Africa?

In South Africa, flight attendant training is typically offered by specialized aviation academies like S.MAB Training Academy, rather than universities, focusing on practical skills and certifications.

Do flight attendants get paid well?

In South Africa, flight attendants typically earn between R10,000 and R20,000 per month, depending on experience, airline, and flight hours.

Do flight attendants go home every night?

Necessarily, on some nights, they don’t go home. Flight attendants often stay overnight in different cities depending on their flight schedule and route.

Conclusion

If you’re serious about becoming an international flight attendant, the right flight attendant courses are key to getting you there.

With the options we’ve shared, you’re now set to find the course that works best for you. Take your time to choose, and soon enough, you’ll be on your way to an exciting new career.