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Can I be a flight attendant if I take antidepressants?

Pharmaceutical Considerations: The use of a psychotropic drug is disqualifying for aeromedical certification purposes – this includes all antidepressant drugs, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).



Yes, you can generally be a flight attendant while taking antidepressants, but it depends on the specific medication and the airline's medical policy. Most airlines follow the guidelines of their national aviation authority (like the FAA in the U.S.). Generally, if the medication is an approved SSRI (like Prozac, Zoloft, or Lexapro), and you have been stable on a consistent dosage for at least 60 to 90 days without side effects like drowsiness or blurred vision, you are eligible. You will likely need a letter from your doctor confirming your condition is well-managed. The primary concern for airlines is not the diagnosis itself, but whether the medication affects your ability to perform safety duties during an emergency.

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If you aren't sure whether your medication falls into one of these categories, you should check with your AME:
  • Tranquilizers, such as but not limited to Valium, Librium, Ativan.
  • Most antidepressants. ...
  • Opiates, such as Morphine, Codeine, Lortab, Percodan, Oxycontin.
  • Muscle relaxants, such as Soma, Sonata, Flexeril.


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Certain previous convictions such as crimes involving an aircraft or any violent crime, felony or time spent in jail would prevent you from being able to work as a Flight Attendant.

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Flight attendants are not medically certified as are pilots. The decision about whether a flight attendant can fly using a prescription medication is a decision made by the flight attendant's personal physician.

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For aspiring flight attendants, Delta Air Lines, ranked by its employees as one of the best places to work, is also one of the most difficult places to get a job. It's harder to get invited to Delta flight attendant training than it is to get into Harvard University.

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Published Research. U.S. flight attendants have a higher prevalence of several forms of cancer, including breast cancer, uterine cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, thyroid cancer, and cervical cancer, when compared with the general public, according to new research from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

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Flight Attendant school has become ever more important. Historically, there has been around a 1% hiring rate. In other words, your chances of getting hired is 1 out of 100.

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Physical Stamina You must be able to do a lot of walking through airports. Good balance is needed since you'll be moving about an aircraft often during turbulence.

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Flight attendants typically need a high school diploma or the equivalent and work experience in customer service. Applicants must meet minimum age requirements, typically 18 or 21; be eligible to work in the United States; have a valid passport; and pass a background check and drug test.

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Some of the medications that individuals take for ADHD are Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, Strattera, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine. Take note: These medications are either amphetamine-based or methylphenidate-based stimulants. The FAA does not accept the use of any of these medications.

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Training to become a flight attendant (also known as cabin crew ) can very in difficulty and intensity depending on the airline and its specific training program. Here are some factors to consider: Duration: Flight attendant training programs typically last a few weeks to a couple of months.

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Scientists have done the math, and it turns out that frequent fliers actually age the tiniest bit more quickly than people with both feet on the ground. But not to worry, the difference is so small, you don't have to worry about extra wrinkles.

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Flight attendants feel pressured to meet beauty standards, resulting in extreme measures like plastic surgery and drug use, and even flying while on psychotic medication during emergencies. Flight attendants are vulnerable to exploitation and lack the ability to confront influential passengers.

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Most airlines require a 90% passing grade on all exams during new hire training. Only 60% of new-hire flight attendants make it through new-hire training. Only 50% survive the first year of employment.

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Top companies for Flight Attendants in United States
  • Delta Air Lines. 4.2 $34.76per hour. 4,825 reviews162 salaries reported.
  • American Airlines. 3.9 $33.65per hour. ...
  • United Airlines. 3.9 $33.42per hour. ...
  • Alaska Airlines. 3.8 $31.30per hour. ...
  • Southwest Airlines. 4.2 $29.36per hour. ...
  • Show more companies.


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$28,500 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $46,500 is the 75th percentile.

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The answer is yes. Everyone deserves to be given a chance when it comes it their dreams, don't we? Being an introverted flight attendant is possible as long as you're ready to talk to people whether you feel like it or not, and if you're willing to work for hours while enduring the sudden crave for a quiet alone time.

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