Spotlight on Talent – Abigail Cox

Studied: Level 2 Cabin Crew and Level 3 Aviation Operations
Progression: Cabin Crew at Ryanair, based at East Midlands Airport

Working in cabin crew is everything Abigail Cox imagined it would be, even while joining Ryanair during the Covid pandemic.

She completed her induction training in June 2021 and took her first flight to Rhodes at the end of July.  Her career lift off comes just months after she completed her studies at Walsall College.

“I’m settling into the job well and getting used to the shift patterns,” said Abigail.  “Some of my flights have been a little quieter passenger-wise than they might usually be, while on others, I’ve been constantly on the go.

“It means I’m getting more used to welcoming different types of passengers such as families, people with specific needs or who ask for lots of things, plus non-English speakers.  They make every flight experience different.  This is what I love about the job.”

Abigail was actually afraid of flying when she was younger, something which makes her swift transition from college into employment all the more remarkable.  On top of this, she also overcame the academic challenges involved in progressing from a Level 2 to Level 3 programme,

“It was a big jump for me, which I hadn’t expected,” said Abigail.  “I struggled with my first Level 3 course unit to the point that I considered swapping courses.             My tutors helped me through it though.

“I worked out the best way to absorb the extra information I needed for all the different topics we covered.  I also adapted to the different style and standard of work you have to meet to pass the qualification.”

Abigail continues to keep up to date with travel laws and regulations through Ryanair’s e-learning programme.  Training also takes place when new aircraft is delivered and cabin crew need to familiarise themselves with the model.

Her ambitions now include working her way up to the role of cabin manager.