The recent news of Singapore Airlines’ remarkable success, including the announcement of an exceptional 8-month bonus for its staff, has ignited the aspirations of individuals worldwide. Among those inspired are individuals with scoliosis who dream of a career as an airline hostess. In this article, we explore the possibilities and address the concerns for those with scoliosis and the pursuit of a fulfilling career in the airline industry while living with a curvature of the spine.

Becoming a flight attendant can be a dream come true for many people, as it allows them to travel the world while earning a living. However, this job comes with a certain set of requirements, and one of the most important is the screening for scoliosis. Whether or not someone with scoliosis can become a flight attendant depends on the severity of their condition and the regulations set by the specific airline they are interested in working for.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has regulations regarding the medical certification of pilots and flight attendants, which includes requirements related to spinal deformities. The FAA requires that any applicant flight attendants, must have a spine that is “structurally normal and free from any deformity that would interfere with the applicant’s ability to perform airman duties.”

Why Are Flight Attendants Affected by Scoliosis
However, the severity of scoliosis varies from person to person and it’s possible that an individual with mild scoliosis may still be able to meet the FAA’s requirements. It would be best to consult with a medical professional and/or contact the specific airline to inquire about their requirements for flight attendants.

Scoliosis is a medical condition that affects the spine, causing it to curve to the side. It can occur in both children and adults, and it can range from mild to severe. The curvature of the spine can cause a variety of health problems, including back pain, difficulty breathing, and even heart problems.

As a flight attendant, you may experience the following stress and potential impact on your spine:

• Flight attendants often have to stand for long periods of time, which can cause back and leg pain.
• Lifting and carrying heavy luggage can put additional strain on the spine and lead to injury.
• Turbulence and sudden movements during flights can cause flight attendants to lose their balance, leading to falls and potential spinal injuries.
• The cramped working conditions on planes can make it difficult for flight attendants to move around and maintain proper posture.
• The frequent changes in altitude during flights can cause pressure changes in the spine, potentially exacerbating existing spinal conditions.

Interview and Health Screening for Flight Attendant
During the interview and health check for flight attendants, scoliosis may be a topic of discussion. Scoliosis is a medical condition where the spine has an abnormal curvature, which can lead to back pain, difficulty breathing, and other complications.

In the interview, the airline may ask about any pre-existing medical conditions, including scoliosis. If a candidate discloses that they have scoliosis, the airline may ask for more information about their condition, such as the severity and any treatments they have undergone.

During the health check, the airline’s medical team may conduct a physical examination to assess the candidate’s spinal alignment and curvature. They may also request X-rays or other imaging tests to get a better understanding of the condition.

What Severity of Scoliosis Considered Suitable For Airlines
Different airlines have varying requirements when it comes to scoliosis. For example, Singapore Airlines requires that potential flight attendants have a curvature of less than 20 degrees whereas Emirates has a policy of less than 30 degrees. This is because the airline industry is highly competitive, and airlines want to ensure that their staff are fit and healthy enough to perform their duties effectively.

If you have scoliosis and are interested in pursuing a career as a flight attendant, there are a few things that you should look out for prior to the screening process. First, you should ensure that you have all of your medical records on hand, including any X-rays or other diagnostic tests that you have had in the past. You should also be aware of any symptoms that you may be experiencing, such as back pain or difficulty breathing.

How to Improve Your Chances of Being Hired as a Flight Attendant with Scoliosis
If you are concerned about your scoliosis and its impact on your ability to become a flight attendant, you may want to consider seeking treatment. Having undergone scoliosis surgery would disqualify individuals from becoming a flight attendant, leaving only the non-surgical option as a viable choice. One option is to visit a clinic that specializes in scoliosis treatment, such as ScolioLife in Singapore. Dr. Kevin Lau, a renowned scoliosis specialist, leads the clinic, which offers a range of non-invasive treatment options, including chiropractic care, specific scoliosis exercises and corrective scoliosis brace.

If you do decide to seek treatment at ScolioLife, Dr. Lau will provide you with a detailed assessment of your condition and recommend a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. He will also provide you with a report that outlines the impact of the job on your scoliosis condition, which can be used during the screening process.

In conclusion, if you have scoliosis and are interested in becoming a flight attendant, it is important to be aware of the screening requirements and to take steps to manage your condition. By seeking treatment and working with a specialist like Dr. Kevin Lau, you can improve your chances of passing the screening process and pursuing your dream job.