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Applying for certification to become an airline worker often requires a background check. Therefore, most people interested in the process wonder if having a DUI on their records can disqualify them or affect their careers.
Although the laws vary from state to state, a first-offense DUI is considered a misdemeanor in most of them. What implications could this conviction have on a flight attendant's professional future? Here's a look at what the aviation regulations say about it.
Are Background Checks Mandatory?
People aspiring to become flight attendants need to pass two background checks, usually going back 10 years, including the one required by the airline and the one required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Airline Background Check
The first background check is for the employer. Most companies in all industries require new workers to pass background checks, including airlines.
While each airline has its own rules, most do background checks for arrests or convictions. Some even require aspiring flight attendants to undergo drug tests.
Background checks are common requirements because airlines must ensure that flight attendants and other employees comply with FAA regulations.
With this process, airlines can also know that a flight attendant can remain on the job after completing the lengthy and often tedious training period. In addition, it is essential to ensure that employees do not get themselves, passengers, the company, or their coworkers in trouble.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Background Check
In addition to the background check required by the airline, people interested in becoming flight attendants must obtain a certification from the FAA. It is known as the Flight Attendant Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency.
This certification's objective is to guarantee that air aviation is as safe as possible through flight attendants' education and training,
Since 2003, the authority has required flight attendants to be certified. Under this new rule, people who have committed certain offenses are not eligible for the permit.
The FAA has issued a list of convictions that may bar someone from being a flight attendant. It is extensive and includes all serious or violent crimes and those related to aircraft.
How a Misdemeanor Affects a Person Interested in Being a Flight Attendant
Being convicted of a misdemeanor does not mean a person cannot be a flight attendant. However, it always depends on the airline's policy, how long ago the offense happened, and other legal factors.
Can a Person Be Hired If They Have a DUI?
Since DUI is classified as a misdemeanor in most US states, a previous conviction does not eliminate a person's chances of being hired to work as a flight attendant.
However, in some cases, the airline's policies do not allow a person who committed a misdemeanor to be part of the aircrew. Many employers also consider when and why the conviction happened before deciding whether or not to hire a candidate.
Flight restrictions could also disqualify a person from being a flight attendant. Countries such as Canada consider that people with a DUI, DWI, or other driving while intoxicated charges on their records are criminally inadmissible.
In other words, they cannot enter the country. That's why some airlines refrain from hiring flight attendants whose work could be affected by flight restrictions in countries that criminalize DUI.
Can Someone Be a Flight Attendant If They Have Committed a Felony?
Unfortunately, a person who has been convicted of a felony cannot be hired as a flight attendant.
Airlines comply with FAA regulations when hiring people for aircrews. Most of these regulations, including those required to be eligible to receive the Flight Attendant Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency, do not allow individuals to become flight attendants or continue to serve in the position if they have committed felonies or serious crimes.
If you have been accused of a felony, contact the Tarrant County TX DUI lawyers at Sparks Law Firm. They can answer any questions regarding a person's DUI conviction ranging from what day of the year has the most DUI arrests to whether or not a person can teach in Texas with a DUI.
How Can an Attorney Help a Flight Attendant Convicted of DUI?
A flight attendant who has been convicted of DUI in the past or during their career can seek legal help to minimize the conviction's impact on their personal and professional life.
Sparks Law Firm's team of experienced attorneys understands that everyone can make mistakes and is willing to help flight attendants fight for their legal rights and defend against charges in order to continue practicing their profession and live the life they deserve.
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