Inside Sky-High Profession: Role and Responsibilities of an Airport Reception Agent and Manager

The sector and world of the airport reception agent

The airport reception agent, also called an airport reception manager, works in the air transport sector. He/she mainly operates in the public or reserved areas of airports, where he/she is in direct contact with passengers and the various airlines.

Main mission of the airport reception agent

The main mission of the airport reception agent is to inform, guide and assist passengers during their stay at the airport. He/she ensures that procedures related to air travel run smoothly and thus contributes to customer satisfaction.

Typical activities carried out by a reception agent

• Inform passengers about flight schedules, services available at the airport and customs formalities.
• Assist with baggage management (labeling, weight verification).
• Check the validity of travel documents (tickets, passports) and carry out their checks during check-in or boarding.
• Assist passengers with reduced mobility or specific needs.
• Manage emergency situations (delays, flight cancellations) by informing and directing the passengers concerned.

Skills and qualities required to practice this profession

To be a good airport reception agent, it is necessary to possess certain skills and qualities:

• Have an excellent presentation and a developed sense of service.
• Master several foreign languages, including English which is essential in the airport environment.
• Demonstrate rigor, autonomy and a great capacity to adapt in the face of unforeseen circumstances.
• Know how to manage stress and remain calm in all circumstances, particularly during peak traffic or conflict situations with passengers.
• Be able to work as a team with colleagues and the various stakeholders involved in the airport (airlines, customs services, etc.).

Working conditions: staggered hours and special environment

The reception agent must adapt to a noisy and hectic environment. He/she generally works standing for several hours straight. Hours are often staggered (early morning, late evening), sometimes including nights, weekends and public holidays. It is therefore necessary to have a B license and a personal vehicle to access employment due to staggered hours.

The Airport Traffic Card: a necessity for working in reserved areas

To practice this profession within the reserved areas of an airport, it is essential to obtain the Airport Traffic Permit (TCA). This document allows access to secure areas and is obtained after an administrative investigation carried out by the prefecture. The TCA request must be made by the employer to the competent authorities.

Generally required training and career development prospects

No specific diploma is required to work as an airport reception agent, but initial training in hospitality or tourism may be appreciated. Some companies also offer internal training to train their employees in the specificities of the profession.

In terms of professional development, an airport reception agent can progress towards positions of responsibility within the airport (responsible for the reception service, platform manager, etc.) or specialize in certain activities (assistance for people with reduced mobility, etc.).

Where to apply?

To access this job, it is possible to apply directly to airports or airlines which regularly recruit this type of profile. Job offers are also available on sites specializing in airport employment and online job search platforms.