What is the primary duty of the First Flight Attendant (A-FA)?

The primary duty of the First Flight Attendant (A-FA) is to assist passengers in the forward section of the aircraft. This role is critical as the A-FA often serves as the lead flight attendant and is responsible for overseeing safety and service in this key area, which includes the location of the cockpit and often requires close coordination with the captain and first officer.

Furthermore, the A-FA takes charge of pre-flight safety tasks, ensuring that everything is ready for a safe takeoff, and may also manage the overall cabin crew activities. This position is crucial for maintaining order and safety in the flight’s more immediate vicinity to the flight deck, which can have significant implications for passenger safety and operational efficiency.

While managing meal services and conducting pre-flight safety briefings are also essential responsibilities of flight attendants, these tasks are typically shared among the cabin crew, with the A-FA focusing specifically on more immediate passenger service in the forward section.