What Background Checks Do Airlines Do?

When you apply for a job with an airline, you can expect to undergo a thorough background check. This is because airlines are required to ensure the safety of their passengers and employees. The background check will typically include a review of your criminal history, credit history, and driving record.

In addition, airlines may also conduct a social media search to see if you have posted anything that could be considered offensive or threatening. They may also contact your former employers and personal references to get an idea of your work history and character.

Criminal History

The criminal history check will typically include a search of local, state, and federal databases. Airlines are looking for any felony convictions, as well as any misdemeanors that could be considered a threat to safety. For example, a conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol could disqualify you from a job with an airline.

Credit History

The credit history check will typically include a review of your credit report. Airlines are looking for any signs of financial instability, such as late payments or defaults on loans. This is because they want to make sure that you are able to manage your finances responsibly.

Driving Record

The driving record check will typically include a review of your driving history. Airlines are looking for any serious traffic violations, such as speeding tickets or DUIs. This is because they want to make sure that you are a safe driver.

Social Media Search

Social media searches are becoming increasingly common as part of the airline background check process. Airlines are looking for any posts that could be considered offensive or threatening. They may also be looking for posts that could indicate that you are not a good fit for the job, such as posts about excessive drinking or drug use.

Former Employers and Personal References

Airlines may also contact your former employers and personal references to get an idea of your work history and character. They will be asking about your job performance, your work ethic, and your ability to work well with others.

How to Prepare for an Airline Background Check

There are a few things you can do to prepare for an airline background check:

• Be honest on your application. Do not try to hide anything from your past. If you have any criminal convictions or other issues that could potentially disqualify you from a job with an airline, be sure to disclose them on your application.
• Order a copy of your credit report. Review your credit report carefully and make sure that there are no errors. If you find any errors, contact the credit bureau immediately to have them corrected.
• Get a copy of your driving record. Review your driving record carefully and make sure that there are no serious traffic violations. If you find any errors, contact the DMV immediately to have them corrected.
• Be mindful of your social media activity. Be careful about what you post on social media. Remember that anything you post could potentially be seen by an airline during the background check process.
• Prepare your former employers and personal references. Let your former employers and personal references know that you have applied for a job with an airline and that they may be contacted as part of the background check process.

What Happens if You Fail an Airline Background Check?

If you fail an airline background check, you may not be eligible for the job. However, there are some things you can do to improve your chances of passing a background check in the future:

• Expunge your criminal record. If you have any criminal convictions, you may be able to have them expunged from your record. This will make it more difficult for airlines to find them during a background check.
• Improve your credit score. If you have a poor credit score, you can take steps to improve it. This will make you more attractive to airlines.
• Get a defensive driving course. If you have any serious traffic violations on your record, you can take a defensive driving course to help improve your driving habits. This will make you a safer driver and will also make you more attractive to airlines.
• Be careful about what you post on social media. Be mindful of what you post on social media. Remember that anything you post could potentially be seen by an airline during the background check process.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of passing an airline background check and getting the job you want.

FAQs

• What is the most common reason for failing an airline background check?

The most common reason for failing an airline background check is a criminal conviction. However, other factors, such as a poor credit score or a serious traffic violation, can also lead to disqualification.

• How long does an airline background check take?

The length of an airline background check can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to complete.

• Can I appeal the results of an airline background check?

Yes, you can appeal the results of an airline background check. However, the process can be complex and time-consuming.

• What are my rights during an airline background check?

You have the right to know what information is being collected about you during an airline background check. You also have the right to dispute any inaccurate information.

• What should I do if I have a criminal record?

If you have a criminal record, you should be honest about it on your airline application. You may also want to consider expunging your record to make it more difficult for airlines to find it.