Roberta Aguirre
If you're 17 and interested in working at an airport, there are a few options available to you. However, it's important to note that most airport jobs have a minimum age requirement of 18 or 21 due to the hazardous nature of working around aircraft. With that said, you may be able to find opportunities as a wheelchair assistant, at a concession stand, or in a quick-service restaurant. Some airports also offer volunteer programs for teenagers, which can be a great way to gain experience and help travellers. Additionally, there are certain positions that may be available to you at the age of 18, such as security agent, baggage handler, or ramp agent. So, while your options may be limited at 17, there are still opportunities to gain valuable experience and enter the exciting world of airport operations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prospects of employment at the airport for 17-year-olds | Limited to wheelchair assistance or working at a concession stand |
| Minimum age requirement for most airport positions | 18 or 21 |
| Reason for age restriction | Working around aircraft is considered hazardous |
| Job prospects for younger teens | Extremely limited |
| Jobs requiring a minimum age of 18 | Reservation agent, baggage handler, aircraft fueling and de-icing agent, cabin cleaner, security agent, ramp agent, customer service representative, air traffic controller |
| Pilot requirements | Age requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); must be at least 16 for a student pilot certificate and 17 for a private pilot's license |
| Flight attendant requirements | Typically 18 or older, with some airlines requiring 21 or older |
| Airport maintenance worker requirements | Typically 18 or older |
| Job opportunities for 16-year-olds | Fast-food restaurants at the airport |
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What You'll Learn
Working in a store or restaurant
Retail and food service jobs at airports typically involve handling transactions, restocking shelves, and maintaining cleanliness. Strong communication skills and a focus on customer service are highly valued in these roles. Some positions may also require physical fitness, especially if they involve baggage handling.
To find job openings, it's recommended to check airport websites or job search platforms. Some employers prefer candidates to apply in person, so visiting airport retail stores and outlets to inquire about vacancies and submit applications can be beneficial. Networking is also a powerful tool, and teens can leverage connections with family, friends, or school counselors to learn about potential opportunities.
When applying for these positions, it's important to have a strong resume that highlights any relevant experience, even if it's not directly related to the role. Teens under 18 typically need a work permit, which can be obtained through their school or local government office. Additionally, certain skills like good communication, customer service, and time management can enhance one's employability.
Overall, working in a store or restaurant at an airport is a fantastic opportunity for 17-year-olds to gain work experience, develop valuable skills, and earn money in a dynamic and diverse environment.
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Working for the company providing wheelchair assistance
If you are 17 years old, your employment opportunities at the airport are limited to wheelchair assistance or working at a concession stand. Most other airport positions require applicants to be 18 years old or above, as working around aircraft is considered hazardous.
Working for a company providing wheelchair assistance can be a great way to gain work experience and learn about the airport environment. It is also a valuable service for passengers with disabilities who require assistance to navigate through the airport and board their flights.
To receive wheelchair assistance, passengers must self-identify to airline staff as individuals with disabilities who need assistance. Airlines are then required by law to provide this assistance promptly. This may include helping passengers from the terminal entrance or vehicle drop-off point to the gate, through security, and onto the aircraft to their seats. It may also involve assisting passengers from their seats on arriving flights through the airport to their connecting flights, if applicable.
Providing wheelchair assistance can be a rewarding role as it allows you to help others and ensure they have a positive travel experience. It can also provide an opportunity to develop excellent customer service skills and gain an understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities when travelling.
While the pay may not be the highest, this role can offer a good starting point for gaining experience and exposure to the inner workings of an airport, especially if you are interested in a career in aviation or customer service.
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$27.19 $39.99
Administrative tasks
While most airport jobs require individuals to be at least 18 years old, there are some entry-level positions that teens aged 16 and 17 can apply for. These jobs can provide valuable experience and skills, helping teens develop customer service skills, learn about different aspects of airport operations, and build their resumes for future career opportunities.
One type of administrative task that 17-year-olds can perform at an airport is data entry. This involves inputting and organising data in a accurate and efficient manner. Filing is another important administrative function that needs to be done systematically and meticulously. Assisting with various office duties is also an option for teens seeking administrative work at airports. These roles are ideal for organised individuals with good attention to detail.
In addition to administrative tasks, there are other airport jobs that are suitable for 16 and 17-year-olds. Customer service roles, for example, are a great way for teens to develop strong communication and interpersonal skills, which are highly valued by employers across various industries. Retail stores, restaurants, and service outlets within the airport often hire teens for customer-facing roles.
Some airports, like Denver International Airport, frequently offer entry-level positions in customer service and operational support. Online job platforms like Indeed and ZipRecruiter also advertise airport jobs for teens, including customer service representatives, cashiers, and wheelchair assistants. It's worth noting that some positions may have higher age requirements, especially those involving machinery or hazardous tasks.
Working at an airport can be a challenging yet rewarding experience for teens. It provides insight into the aviation industry and helps build a professional network. However, balancing work and school can be difficult, so creating a schedule that allows adequate time for both responsibilities is essential. Time management skills and learning to stay calm under pressure are crucial for success in a fast-paced airport environment.
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Baggage handling
If you are 17 years old, your employment opportunities at the airport are limited. Most airport jobs require applicants to be 18 or 21 years of age. However, you may be able to find work in wheelchair assistance or at a concession stand.
Now, assuming you are 18 years old, here is some information on baggage handling at an airport.
Baggage handlers are in charge of loading and unloading baggage and cargo from aircraft. They are responsible for getting luggage onto departing flights and off arriving flights. This involves operating conveyor belts and luggage carousels, driving tugs and tow tractors, and lifting heavy, large, and oversized baggage.
To become a baggage handler, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some sources suggest that you need to be at least 20 years old and have a valid driver's license, as some of the work involves driving vehicles like baggage carts. A knowledge of computers is also helpful.
Baggage handlers must be in good physical health and able to lift heavy objects. The job requires working outdoors in all types of weather conditions and moving between different areas of the airport, such as buildings, warehouses, and aircraft holds. Baggage handlers typically work in shifts and must be flexible with irregular hours and last-minute schedule changes.
As part of a ground crew, baggage handlers work alongside large and small teams, including other baggage handlers, ramp agents, and supervisors. Strong teamwork and communication skills are essential, as baggage handlers interact with passengers and pilots to relay important information.
In addition to handling baggage, baggage handlers may also be responsible for other tasks, such as monitoring staff and visitors for security purposes, operating and maintaining equipment, and ensuring a clean and organised workspace.
Overall, baggage handling can be a physically demanding and varied role, requiring flexibility and strong communication and teamwork skills.
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Customer service roles
If you are 17 years old, your options for working at an airport are limited. Most airport jobs require applicants to be 18 or 21 years old, as working around aircraft is considered hazardous. However, there are still some customer service roles that you may be able to apply for.
One option is to work in a concession stand or fast-food restaurant at the airport. These jobs are often available to 16 and 17-year-olds and can provide valuable work experience. You could also consider a role providing wheelchair assistance to passengers, which may be open to 16-year-olds in some cases.
If you are an older teen, you may be eligible for other customer service roles at the airport. For example, you could apply to be a reservation agent, which involves assisting passengers with bookings and reservations. This role typically requires a high school degree and some work experience or college education.
Another option is to work as a ramp agent, assisting with ground handling services and loading and unloading baggage and cargo from aircraft. This role usually requires a valid driver's license and a good driving record, in addition to the applicant being 18 or older.
While it may be challenging to find airport customer service jobs at 17, gaining some work experience and applying for roles when you turn 18 can increase your chances of securing a position in this field.
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Frequently asked questions
At 17, your options for employment at the airport are limited. You could work in a fast-food outlet inside the terminal or at a concession stand. Some sources suggest that you might be able to get a job fueling smaller planes at your local FBO.
Yes, there are some positions that hire 16-year-olds, so you may be eligible for these roles in a year. These include passenger service agent roles, where you assist passengers with special needs or disabilities, and various food service roles.
Most airlines require you to be 18 or over, but it's worth checking specific airlines' websites for their minimum age requirements. For example, the minimum age to apply at Aero Air, Air Canada, Air Wisconsin Airlines, and American Airlines is 18.
Working at an airport as a teenager can be a great way to gain valuable work experience in a fast-paced industry. It can also give you access to some behind-the-scenes areas of the airport.
Yes, some airports offer volunteer programs for teenagers, such as Tampa's traveller aid program. These programs can count towards community service hours if required by your school.
