ABSTRACT
The importance of cabin crew to the safety- and welfare of passengers is recognised by the industry. Though it is not often realised how encompassing the role is. This paper discusses the safety role of cabin crew as set against the marketing and commercial interests of airline companies, where it often comes off a poor second. Companies will deny this, but in varying degrees all are culpable. Additionally, the paper sets out to describe the responsibilities of cabin crew in aircraft safety procedures, examining some of the problems and emergency situations they have to face. It looks at the need for standardised training and equipment, the value of experience, joint CRM training with flight deck crew and sensible uniforms.
