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. They must have vision that is correctable to at least 20/40 and often need to conform to height requirements set by the airline.

The restrictions for flight attendants (or air hostesses) are primarily focused on safety, functionality, and professional image. While the industry has become more inclusive over the years, most airlines still have strict height requirements—typically between 5'0" and 6'3"—to ensure staff can reach emergency equipment in overhead bins while also fitting comfortably within the cabin's ceiling height. Candidates must also be physically fit enough to pass rigorous safety training, which includes swimming and operating heavy emergency doors. Regarding appearance, most carriers require that tattoos not be visible while in uniform; this often means no tattoos on the hands, neck, or face. There are also grooming standards for hair and makeup that vary by airline. Age is another factor; most international airlines require a minimum age of 18 or 21. Furthermore, there are often residency and visa requirements, as staff must be able to travel freely between the countries the airline serves. Some airlines also maintain Body Mass Index (BMI) or "proportional weight" guidelines to ensure mobility in narrow aisles.