Fly in a safe zone, always

Kulneet Suri

Although security levels are always at the maximum in the airlines industry, yet it is most vulnerable to threats at all times. Even in this age of technology, mishaps have happened and lives have been lost.

Professionals working in the airlines sector often  face life-threatening situations. This makes it important for the workforce to be prepared for tough situations always. For this very reason, airline and travel management institutes teach you all about aviation security and the threats that generally loom.

Even if you are well versed with all the laws and rules, protecting yourself ultimately comes down to your presence of mind. The actual situation is very different from what you read in theory and prevention is often the best step, rather than dealing with a threat later on. While working in the aviation industry or even if you are aspiring to be a part of it, there are a few norms that you must keep in mind. 

Tech hack a reality

Always keep in mind that technology is hackable and everything can be forged. So, your first step as professionals is to carefully evaluate the employment process that you are put through. If the entire process happened too fast or a maximum of it is automated, you may want to reconsider your options. A bit of manual involvement is necessary and terrorists look for such opportunities to infiltrate into the system.

Similarly, most of the ticket reservations will happen online and you will directly meet the person only at the airport or inside the aircraft. Look into the airline’s verification procedure through which they are allowing their customers to sign up. If you feel things are not secure enough, you may want to look for an alternative job opportunity rather than putting yourself at risk. These precautions, at the personal level, will keep you safe throughout your career.

Look for signs

Develop your sense of reading signs during your air hostess training, if that is your aim. Top institutes will teach you body language and expressions that suspects often display. As a part of the cabin crew, it will be your responsibility to raise the red flag as the passengers hardly notice such things. You have the liberty to move inside an aircraft and you always have to be at your vigilant best. 

You must also know how to react when you actually come across a suspect. Since, you will be not armed to place him/ her under arrest, you can’t afford to catch attention or raise panic in a flying plane. Learn ways to contact security personnel on the ground or inform your superior with valid reasons. In the aviation industry, the slightest bit of panic can be disastrous.

Keep your guard up

The occupation may require you to fly over disturbed zones. At times, the threats may not be man-made at all, but whatever the case might be, be your own protector. Every accident is unforeseen but you can deal with it better if you are prepared. A short course in self-defence can be of great help. You may also opt out of a particular profile for safety reasons. 

Aviation continues to be one of the most sought-after industries. It’s not that you will come across a situation everyday, but it is always better to keep your guard up. 

—The writer is senior director IMS noida