Meet James and Chloe Lynch, who are both cabin crew members here at Monarch. James has been with us since 2011 and in March, his younger sibling Chloe took the big step and decided to join him! They recently flew together for the first time, and we caught up with them to find out how it felt and what made them want to take to the skies.
Hi James and Chloe! So, did you both always want to be cabin crew?
James: when I was younger I honestly didn’t have a clue on what I wanted to do! I studied Sports Science at college, but eventually had a big change in subject and went on studying Travel and Tourism for a few months before joining Monarch. I couldn’t think of doing anything different now!
Chloe: I knew from about the age 13 that I wanted a career as cabin crew. Growing up with family members who work in and around the (Luton) airport really influenced me – especially James, who loves his job and always comes home with a smile!
What was it like growing up together?
James: We are very close and always have been. I’m very protective over Chloe, I’ve been there to make sure she’s doing everything right…right from when she started to walk and talk!
Chloe: Even though there is a five-year age gap we were very close growing up, James always looks out for me and keeps me involved in everything he does.
Who is the eldest out of you two?
Chloe: James is the eldest, he is 23 and I’m 18!
I know you have recently travelled to Cyprus for the first time together as cabin crew. What was it like to work so closely?
James: It was strange to see my little sister working on the same aircraft, but I enjoyed it – especially as she is quite new in the job, I knew I could give her a hand if she needed it!
Chloe: It was very strange flying to Cyprus with James, but it’s not so bad because it’s not an everyday occurrence! Working in the same airline as James also helped me a lot because I didn’t really have to introduce myself to anyone, everyone either already knew who I was or could tell just by looking at me!
How did your first flight as cabin crew feel?
James: My first flight was five years ago, but I remember it like it was yesterday! I never feel nervous, but I was both anxious and excited on the day. The rest of the crew soon calmed me down and the day ‘flew’ by!
Chloe: My first flight was to Faro. I was so nervous on the way out, I don’t think I’ve ever felt so many butterflies in my stomach! On the way back to Luton I felt a lot calmer and more confident in what I was doing. It helped a lot to have such a lovely crew that day!
What’s your advice for anyone wanting to start a career as cabin crew?
James: Do it! That’s the only advice I can give you if you’re considering it. The training can take its toll, but it’s so rewarding after the five weeks are up!
Chloe: If it’s something you want to do, do it! It will be the best decision you will ever make. If you’re worried about the training or exams just push yourself, you don’t know what you’re capable of! The five weeks of training were the most tiring, stressful weeks of my life but they were the most rewarding so far!
What do you love about working at Monarch?
James: I love the friendly atmosphere, walking into the crew room and seeing everyone smiling, getting on and having a laugh together!
Chloe: The friendly atmosphere and the fact that everyone is so welcoming. There aren’t many jobs where you can walk in on your first day and already feel like you’ve been there for years!
And finally…what is your favourite Monarch destination and why?
James: It’s got to be Gibraltar! It was my first flight with Monarch and it’s been my favourite since then. Seeing the famous Rock of Gibraltar can’t go amiss, especially when it has clouds around it or during a sunset!
Chloe: I haven’t done many flights yet, but so far my favourite has been Gibraltar. You meet a lot of lovely people who are genuinely interested in your job and love to have a chat during the flight which is great for me because I can talk for England! You also get to see the Rock of Gibraltar in the sunshine which looks amazing!
