How to Become an Airplane Cleaner (Fly High with Hygiene!)

how to become an airplane cleaner

If you’ve ever dreamed of working behind the scenes in the aviation industry or wondered what it takes to become an airplane cleaner, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as an airplane cleaner. We’ll talk about:

  • The skills you need.
  • The training programs that can help you get there.
  • How to land a job as an airplane cleaner.

So, whether you’re someone who’s new to the aviation industry or an individual looking to switch careers, stay tuned.

We’re about to unravel the blueprint to become an airplane cleaner.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become an Airplane Cleaner

 

Step 1: Understand the Role of an Airplane Cleaner

Before you start pursuing a career as an airplane cleaner, it is essential to understand what the job entails.

An airplane cleaner is responsible for ensuring that the interior of aircraft are clean, sanitary, and ready for passengers.

This includes cleaning the seats, aisles, bathrooms, and cockpit, as well as restocking items like soaps, tissues, and magazines.

Airplane cleaners often work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to ensure planes are ready for their next flight.

They need to have excellent attention to detail, as cleanliness is critical for the comfort and safety of passengers.

This job may require physical stamina as it involves repetitive bending, stretching, and lifting.

Knowing what an airplane cleaner does on a daily basis can help you determine if this career path is right for you.

Research more about the role, check the specific job requirements of different airlines, and consider volunteering or doing a part-time job in a similar role to gain first-hand experience.

This will give you a deeper understanding of the role and its challenges.

 

Step 2: Secure a High School Diploma or Equivalent

While the education requirements to become an airplane cleaner aren’t as stringent as some other professions, securing a high school diploma or its equivalent is typically the most basic requirement that employers look for.

This is because the job involves more than just cleaning.

It requires an understanding of safety regulations, use of specific cleaning equipment and chemicals, and often involves reading and understanding written instructions.

Additionally, having a high school diploma can also open up opportunities for further training and progression within the airline industry.

For instance, you might start as an airplane cleaner but with additional education and training, you could move up to positions such as ground crew, baggage handler, or even cabin crew.

Therefore, it’s recommended to complete your high school education or obtain a General Educational Development (GED) certificate before you start applying for airplane cleaner positions.

 

Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with Cleaning Products and Tools

As an airplane cleaner, you’ll be responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of aircraft interiors.

This will require a solid understanding of the various cleaning products and tools used in the process.

First, it’s important to be aware that cleaning an airplane is not the same as cleaning a house; it involves specialized products that are safe for use in aircraft and won’t cause damage to any of the interior components.

Familiarize yourself with the range of products, including sanitizers, detergents, and disinfectants that are approved for aircraft use.

You’ll need to understand the appropriate use for each product, as well as any necessary safety precautions or potential hazards associated with them.

Next, you’ll need to get acquainted with the different tools used in the cleaning process.

These can include vacuum cleaners, long reach brushes, steam cleaners, and pressure washers.

You’ll need to know how to properly operate each tool and the specific applications they’re best suited for.

It’s also crucial to understand that some areas of the plane require delicate cleaning methods to avoid damaging sensitive equipment, while others may require heavy duty cleaning to ensure sanitation standards are met.

Lastly, always remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use of cleaning products and tools, and adhere to safety protocols to protect yourself and the aircraft.

Regular training and refreshers on handling cleaning equipment and chemicals is a good practice to ensure effectiveness and safety.

 

Step 4: Learn Health and Safety Regulations

As an airplane cleaner, a key aspect of your job will be adhering to various health and safety regulations.

This is crucial not just for the wellbeing of passengers but also for your own safety.

Many cleaning chemicals can be harmful if not used properly, and working in and around airplanes comes with its own set of risks.

You’ll need to learn the proper use of cleaning equipment, how to handle and dispose of chemical waste, and what to do in case of an emergency.

Further, understanding the specific regulations related to cleaning an airplane is essential.

These guidelines may include rules about how to clean certain areas of the plane, what types of products can be used, and how to ensure the aircraft is properly sanitized to prevent disease spread.

To learn these regulations, you can seek out online resources, attend safety workshops or seminars, or receive training directly from your employer.

This knowledge will be invaluable to your role and can even pave the way for advancement opportunities within your field.

You should continuously stay updated with the latest safety regulations and guidelines in the aviation industry to ensure you are performing your duties effectively and safely.

 

Step 5: Obtain Necessary Certifications

While some employers may not require certifications to work as an airplane cleaner, it can be beneficial to hold certain certifications to increase your employability and demonstrate your expertise.

One such certification is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) certification, which demonstrates your knowledge in health and safety regulations, particularly how to handle hazardous materials and waste that you might encounter while cleaning an airplane.

This certification can make you more attractive to employers by showcasing your understanding of safety procedures and your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.

In addition, some airlines may require airplane cleaners to obtain a security clearance due to the sensitive nature of the work environment.

This process usually involves a background check and fingerprinting.

Lastly, obtaining a driver’s license may be beneficial as some job roles may require driving specialized cleaning vehicles on the tarmac.

Remember, while not always necessary, these certifications can give you an edge over other candidates and may provide you with more job opportunities.

 

Step 6: Develop Physical Stamina and Efficiency

The physical demands of an airplane cleaner’s job are considerable and it’s crucial to build your physical stamina to perform the job effectively.

This role will often involve bending, climbing, reaching, and heavy lifting.

Developing your physical fitness can help you to carry out these tasks more efficiently and with less risk of injury.

It’s also important to build your ability to work quickly and efficiently.

Airplanes typically have short turnaround times between flights, and cleaners must work swiftly to ensure the plane is ready for its next departure.

Developing a routine and learning how to clean thoroughly yet quickly is an essential skill in this role.

You can improve your physical stamina by engaging in regular physical activities such as jogging, swimming, or gym workouts.

You can improve your efficiency by practicing your cleaning routine, learning to use your cleaning tools and supplies more effectively, and always seeking ways to improve your speed without sacrificing the quality of your work.

Remember, as an airplane cleaner, your job is not only to clean but to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers on subsequent flights.

Your ability to work quickly and efficiently is a vital part of this.

 

Step 7: Gain Experience in Cleaning or Janitorial Work

Before you can become an airplane cleaner, it can be helpful to gain experience in a related field.

Many people who become airplane cleaners start by working in other cleaning or janitorial roles.

This could include working as a cleaner in an office building, school, or other large facility.

These jobs can help you learn the basic skills required for cleaning, such as how to use different cleaning supplies and equipment, how to clean different types of surfaces, and how to work efficiently.

You will also learn the importance of maintaining a clean and safe environment.

This experience can be beneficial when applying for airplane cleaner positions, as it demonstrates you have the necessary skills and experience to handle the job.

Plus, employers often prefer candidates who have previous experience in a similar role.

In addition, you may also consider seeking opportunities to clean in an airport environment, which could provide a more direct experience related to airplane cleaning.

This could involve cleaning the airport terminal, lounges, or other facilities, which would familiarize you with the airport environment and protocols.

Remember, the more experience you gain, the better prepared you’ll be to take on the specialized duties of an airplane cleaner.

 

Step 8: Apply for Jobs with Airlines or Airport Services Companies

After acquiring the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience, the next step in becoming an airplane cleaner is to start applying for jobs.

Look for job openings at airlines or airport services companies.

These companies often advertise vacancies on their websites, in local newspapers, or on job search websites.

When applying for a job, make sure your resume is up-to-date and professionally written, highlighting your relevant skills and experiences for the role of an airplane cleaner.

This should include any relevant cleaning experience, knowledge of cleaning products and equipment, and any related certifications or training you may have.

Remember, it’s not just about the cleaning skills – companies also value employees who are punctual, reliable, and can work well in a team.

If you have these qualities, make sure to highlight them in your application and during interviews.

It’s also worth mentioning that many companies provide on-the-job training for new hires, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t have a lot of experience.

Show your eagerness to learn and your commitment to the job, and you might just land your dream job as an airplane cleaner.

Keep in mind that working hours for airplane cleaners can sometimes be outside of the typical 9-5 schedule, including early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays.

So, be sure that you are ready for this kind of commitment before applying.

Lastly, don’t forget to follow up on your applications.

If you haven’t heard back after a couple of weeks, it’s perfectly acceptable to call or email to check on the status of your application.

It shows you are serious and eager about the opportunity.

 

Step 9: Receive On-the-Job Training

Once you have secured a position as an airplane cleaner, you will typically undergo a period of on-the-job training.

This is crucial because it will introduce you to the specific tools, chemicals, and processes used by your employer to clean and maintain airplanes.

During your training, experienced cleaners or supervisors will guide you and demonstrate how to perform tasks correctly and safely.

You will learn how to handle and dispose of cleaning chemicals appropriately, how to clean specific areas of the airplane, and how to identify potential maintenance issues that need to be reported.

Additionally, this training will cover safety protocols for working around airplanes, such as understanding runway signals and how to operate machinery like lifts and high-pressure washers.

You will also be trained on the proper use of personal protective equipment.

While the duration of on-the-job training can vary, it’s an essential step towards becoming a fully competent airplane cleaner.

It not only helps you to become familiar with the job but also ensures you can perform your duties safely and efficiently.

 

Step 10: Uphold Professionalism and Attention to Detail

As an airplane cleaner, it is crucial to maintain a high level of professionalism at all times.

This entails punctuality, respect for colleagues and supervisors, and adherence to the protocols and guidelines set by the aviation industry and the airline you are working for.

In a job that involves cleaning airplanes, attention to detail is incredibly important.

You will be required to inspect and clean various parts of the aircraft, including seats, windows, tray tables, overhead bins, restrooms, and cockpit areas.

Missing out on any spot could result in customer dissatisfaction or, in some cases, safety hazards.

Maintaining cleanliness in an aircraft is a task that requires meticulousness and a commitment to ensuring the highest level of hygiene.

This is not just for the comfort of passengers but also for their health and safety.

Your ability to thoroughly clean and sanitize every nook and cranny of an aircraft can significantly impact the overall flight experience of passengers.

Moreover, being observant and alert can help you spot potential issues or damages that need immediate attention.

Reporting such incidents promptly can prevent more significant problems down the line.

Your professionalism and attention to detail not only contribute to ensuring a safe and comfortable flight experience for passengers but also reflect your commitment to your role and the aviation industry as a whole.

 

Step 11: Stay Informed About Security Protocols

As an Airplane Cleaner, your job isn’t solely about cleanliness.

You must also be aware of the various security protocols at the airport and within the aircraft.

This involves being informed about the rules and regulations set by airport authorities and aviation agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Staying informed about security protocols includes understanding what items are considered dangerous or restricted, identifying suspicious activities or objects, and knowing how to respond or who to inform in such scenarios.

You must also be aware of safety procedures during emergencies.

If your job involves cleaning the cockpit, you might need special clearance and should be familiar with handling the delicate and expensive equipment without triggering any controls accidentally.

Regularly attending security briefings and participating in training sessions organized by your employer or the airport authority can help you stay updated on any changes in protocols.

Remember, your role extends beyond just cleaning – you play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of every flight.

 

Step 12: Advance Your Career through Additional Training and Experience

As an airplane cleaner, there are several ways you can advance your career.

One way to do this is through gaining additional training and experience in your field.

You may wish to pursue certifications in specialized cleaning procedures, such as biohazard cleaning or high-level disinfection.

This can make you more valuable to your employer and open up opportunities for advancement.

You can also gain experience by working on different types of aircrafts, such as private jets, commercial airliners, or cargo planes.

This will make you more versatile and increase your chances of being promoted.

Another way to advance your career is by demonstrating leadership qualities and taking on more responsibilities.

You could aim to become a team leader or supervisor, overseeing the work of other cleaners.

This would involve not just cleaning, but also managing schedules, ensuring health and safety standards are met, and training new staff members.

Remember, continuous learning and improvement is the key to progress in any job role.

With dedication and hard work, you can climb the ranks in the field of airplane cleaning.

 

Airplane Cleaner Roles and Responsibilities

Airplane Cleaners play an integral role in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of aircrafts to ensure passenger comfort and safety.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

 

Cleaning and Sanitizing

  • Clean and sanitize the interior of the aircraft including seats, seat pockets, tray tables, overhead bins, windows, and lavatories.
  • Use approved cleaning products and equipment.
  • Remove and dispose of trash from the aircraft.

 

Detailed Cleaning

  • Perform deep cleaning tasks such as shampooing carpets, wiping walls, and cleaning leather seats.
  • Ensure all areas of the aircraft are free from dust, stains, and debris.

 

Restocking

  • Restock necessary items in the aircraft such as tissues, hand sanitizer, and magazines.
  • Refill lavatory supplies including soap, toilet paper, and paper towels.

 

Inspection

  • Inspect the cleanliness of the aircraft and ensure it meets the required standards.
  • Report any damage or malfunctions to the appropriate personnel.

 

Safety Measures

  • Follow safety procedures and protocols while cleaning the aircraft.
  • Wear appropriate safety gear to protect against hazards.

 

Timeliness

  • Work efficiently to ensure the aircraft is cleaned and ready for the next flight in a timely manner.
  • Be prepared to work at different hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

 

Communication

  • Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors.
  • Report any issues or concerns to the relevant authorities.

 

Continuous Learning

  • Stay updated on new cleaning techniques and products.
  • Participate in training programs to enhance job skills.

 

What Does an Airplane Cleaner Do?

Airplane Cleaners are tasked with ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of aircrafts, typically working for airlines or airport cleaning services.

They are crucial in maintaining a pleasant and safe environment for passengers and crew members during flights.

Their responsibilities involve thoroughly cleaning the interior of the aircraft, which includes seats, windows, trays, overhead compartments, and the cockpit.

This could mean vacuuming carpets, dusting surfaces, and polishing metal work.

Airplane Cleaners also take care of lavatories, ensuring they are sanitized, restocked with toiletries, and functioning well.

They might also be responsible for cleaning and tidying up the galley or kitchen area of the plane, including the disposal of trash.

In addition to general cleaning, they inspect the cleanliness of the aircraft, report any damage or repairs needed, and make sure all cleaning tasks are completed within a specific timeframe, often between flights.

Airplane Cleaners are also trained to follow safety procedures and regulations, and they use a variety of cleaning products and equipment that are approved for use in aircrafts.

Their role is crucial in ensuring a comfortable travel experience for all passengers and crew.

 

Essential Airplane Cleaner Skills

  • Attention to Detail: Airplane cleaners must have a keen eye for detail to ensure each part of the airplane is thoroughly cleaned and meets the company’s and passengers’ cleanliness standards.
  • Physical Stamina: The role often requires heavy lifting, bending, and working in confined spaces, so physical fitness is important.
  • Time Management: As airplanes often have tight schedules, cleaners need to work efficiently and quickly to ensure planes are ready for their next flight.
  • Safety Awareness: Knowledge of safety procedures and compliance with regulations is crucial to ensure the safety of themselves and others.
  • Teamwork: Cleaners often work in teams, so the ability to collaborate effectively is important for the timely completion of tasks.
  • Use of Cleaning Chemicals: Understanding how to use various cleaning agents, including their hazards and safety precautions, is important.
  • Communication: Good communication skills are required for interacting with team members and supervisors, and reporting any issues or concerns.
  • Customer Service: Although not directly interacting with passengers, airplane cleaners contribute to the overall passenger experience. Thus, understanding the importance of their role in customer service is vital.
  • Problem-solving: If issues arise, such as a spill that is hard to clean or a missing piece of equipment, cleaners need to be able to think critically and solve the problem efficiently.
  • Adaptability: Airplanes can land at different times, and schedules can change, so flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing situations are important.
  • Compliance: A comprehension of compliance with company procedures, aviation regulations, and safety standards is necessary to ensure the aircraft’s cleanliness and safety.
  • Equipment Handling: Knowledge of using industrial cleaning equipment and tools is essential for the job.
  • Reliability: As airplanes operate around the clock, reliability is important. Cleaners should be dependable and able to work in different shifts, including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Resilience: The ability to work in a high-stress, fast-paced environment is crucial for airplane cleaners.
  • Confidentiality: Airplane cleaners may come across sensitive information or unattended items. Maintaining professionalism and respecting passengers’ privacy is essential.

 

Airplane Cleaner Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior Airplane Cleaner

Your career journey typically starts as a Junior Airplane Cleaner.

This is a highly important role where you learn the basics of airplane maintenance and sanitation.

Your responsibilities may involve cleaning the interior of the airplane, restocking supplies, and ensuring the overall cleanliness of the aircraft.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

  1. Attention to Detail: Pay attention to minor details to make sure every corner of the airplane is clean.
  2. Adhere to Standards: Learn and strictly adhere to safety and sanitation standards.
  3. Physical Fitness: Maintain good physical condition to handle the physical demands of the job.

 

The Ascent: Airplane Cleaner

With gained experience and skills, you may move to the role of an Airplane Cleaner.

This role entails more responsibility, as you’re expected to ensure the cleanliness of more complex and larger aircraft.

You may also be tasked with performing deep-cleaning procedures.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

  1. Efficiency: Improve your efficiency to handle larger airplanes and tighter schedules.
  2. Teamwork: Work effectively with your team to ensure the cleanliness of the entire airplane.
  3. Knowledge: Gain more knowledge about different types of aircraft and their specific cleaning requirements.

 

Reaching New Heights: Senior Airplane Cleaner

As you continue to progress, you may move into the Senior Airplane Cleaner role.

In this position, you’re acknowledged for your skills and experience.

You might be responsible for training new hires, supervising cleaning operations, and ensuring compliance with safety and sanitation standards.

To excel as a Senior Airplane Cleaner:

  1. Leadership: Show leadership skills by training and guiding new cleaners.
  2. Regulations: Maintain up-to-date knowledge about cleaning and safety regulations in aviation.
  3. Problem-Solving: Develop problem-solving abilities to handle any cleaning-related challenges that may arise.

 

Beyond the Horizon: Cleaning Supervisor and Beyond

As your career progresses, you may step into supervisory roles like Cleaning Supervisor or Cleaning Manager.

These positions involve greater responsibilities including managing a team, ensuring the cleaning schedule is followed, and ensuring compliance with all safety and sanitation protocols.

Here’s what to focus on:

  1. Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to manage your team effectively.
  2. Planning: Enhance your planning and scheduling abilities to ensure efficient operations.
  3. Quality Control: Focus on maintaining the high quality of cleaning services to ensure passenger safety and satisfaction.

 

Pinnacle of Success: Cleaning Operations Manager

You may reach roles like Cleaning Operations Manager at the highest levels of the airplane cleaning career ladder.

Here, you’ll be responsible for overseeing the entire cleaning operations of the organization, making important decisions, and managing larger teams.

This role requires excellent leadership, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of aviation sanitation requirements.

 

Airplane Cleaner Salary

Entry-Level Airplane Cleaner

  • Median Salary: $20,000 – $25,000 per year
  • Entry-level airplane cleaners typically have 0-1 years of experience and are usually responsible for basic cleaning tasks, such as vacuuming, dusting, and trash removal. No formal education is required, but a high school diploma or equivalent may be preferred by some employers.

 

Experienced Airplane Cleaner

  • Median Salary: $25,000 – $30,000 per year
  • Experienced airplane cleaners have 1-3 years of experience and may take on additional responsibilities, such as deep-cleaning tasks and using specialized cleaning equipment. They may also train new employees.

 

Senior Airplane Cleaner

  • Median Salary: $30,000 – $35,000 per year
  • Senior airplane cleaners possess 3+ years of experience and often lead cleaning teams, schedule cleaning tasks, and ensure compliance with safety and hygiene standards.

 

Airplane Cleaning Supervisor

  • Median Salary: $35,000 – $50,000+ per year
  • Airplane cleaning supervisors usually have significant experience in airplane cleaning and are responsible for managing cleaning crews, coordinating tasks, ensuring quality control, and liaising with airline representatives.

 

Airplane Cleaning Manager

  • Median Salary: $50,000 – $70,000+ per year
  • These high-level positions require extensive experience and often involve overseeing all cleaning operations, creating and implementing cleaning protocols, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

 

Airplane Cleaner Work Environment

Airplane Cleaners typically work at airports, with employment opportunities available in both commercial and private aviation sectors.

These professionals often work for airlines directly or for specialized cleaning services contracted by airlines.

The work schedule of an airplane cleaner can be quite variable, often including night shifts, weekends, and public holidays, depending on the flight schedules and the needs of the airline.

Their work is both indoor and outdoor, depending on the tasks at hand and the weather conditions.

The work environment can be fast-paced, especially during the peak travel seasons.

Airplane cleaners often need to clean aircraft in a limited time frame to ensure that flights can depart on schedule.

These professionals may work in teams, and often require to be physically fit as the job involves bending, stretching, and lifting.

Safety is a key aspect of this role, with strict protocols and procedures to be followed while performing their duties.

 

FAQs About Becoming an Airplane Cleaner

What is needed to become an airplane cleaner?

Becoming an airplane cleaner typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent.

Some airlines might provide on-the-job training, but prior cleaning experience can be beneficial.

The role requires physical fitness as it involves lifting, reaching, bending, and sometimes working in confined spaces.

Essential skills for this role include attention to detail, ability to follow safety protocols, time management, and teamwork.

Basic English skills might also be required for understanding instructions and safety regulations.

 

How long does it take to become an airplane cleaner?

The time to become an airplane cleaner can be relatively short compared to many other roles.

If you have the required education and physical ability, you can start as soon as you complete the hiring process, which includes interviews, background checks, and potentially, training.

The training period can last a few days to a few weeks, depending on the airline’s specific procedures and the individual’s previous experience.

 

Do I need a special certification to become an airplane cleaner?

Typically, no specific certification is required to become an airplane cleaner.

However, some airlines may require you to undergo safety and operational training once you are hired.

This training is usually provided by the airline and ensures you understand the safety protocols, cleaning standards, and procedures specific to the airline and the types of aircraft you will be cleaning.

 

Is airplane cleaning a physically demanding job?

Yes, airplane cleaning can be physically demanding.

Cleaners often need to lift heavy equipment, reach overhead compartments, bend or kneel to clean lower areas, and sometimes work in confined spaces like lavatories.

The job may also require standing or moving around for extended periods.

Therefore, physical fitness is an important aspect of this role.

 

What are the prospects for airplane cleaners in the next decade?

The prospects for airplane cleaners are tied to the aviation industry’s health, which can fluctuate based on economic conditions, travel trends, and global events.

However, as long as air travel continues to be a major mode of transportation, there will be a need for airplane cleaners.

Also, with increased emphasis on cleanliness and hygiene due to recent global health concerns, the role of airplane cleaners has become even more crucial in providing a safe and comfortable travel experience.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Initiating your journey to become an airplane cleaner might seem daunting, but it’s unquestionably fulfilling.

Equipped with the correct skills, training, and perseverance, you’re on the right path to making a significant difference in the aviation industry.

Bear in mind, the route may be tough, but the possibilities are endless. Your meticulous work could lead to the next flight’s safe and enjoyable journey for countless passengers.

So, take that initial step. Immerse yourself in training. Connect with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop striving for perfection in cleanliness and safety.

Because the world is awaiting your contribution to a safer, cleaner travel experience.

If you’re seeking personalized guidance on beginning or advancing your career as an airplane cleaner, consider our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to provide customized advice and resources to help you efficiently navigate your career path.

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