ASTM International has announced a certification programme for business jet cabin crews from the organisation's affiliate, the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT).

The Business Aviation Cabin Crew programme, administered by SpaceTEC Partners, Inc, will require candidates to demonstrate knowledge of and skills in aircraft safety procedures and cabin service safety as well as professionalism and discretion. The programme aims to ensure the comfort and safety of domestic and international passengers.

“Since I began training cabin crew members, there has been an ongoing request from clients for accreditation,” says Louisa Fisher, programme manager of cabin safety with FlightSafety International. “This new programme meets the need for an objective and industry-respected certification that recognises the trained and experienced cabin crew member.”

Mike Horan, lead safety flight attendant at Altria Corporation, adds: “This certification complements formal safety training by demonstrating a crew member's knowledge and commitment to their profession, traits that are very attractive to current and prospective employers. The certification also serves to create a standard of excellence for professional crew members irrespective of where they received training, the size of their flight department, geographical location or other factors.”

ASTM International and SpaceTEC signed a memorandum of understanding in 2017 aimed at jointly working to help certify aircraft maintenance technicians and other aerospace workers. SpaceTEC administers performance-based certifications for civilian and military aerospace technicians.

Separately, the existing Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certification, also from NCATT/SpaceTEC is expected to be renewed in the coming months. ASTM International's committee on aerospace personnel (F46) develops and maintains internationally accepted standards and guidance materials for aerospace personnel education, qualification, testing, certification requirements and continued education.