Does American Airlines Hire Felons?

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American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, providing air travel to millions of passengers each year. However, there is a common question that many people ask: does American Airlines hire felons? This is a question that has been asked by many individuals who have a criminal record and are looking for a job in the airline industry. In this article, we will explore this question and provide you with the answer you need.

Does American Airlines Hire Felons?

Does American Airlines Hire Felons?

When it comes to finding employment, individuals who have a criminal record often face significant challenges. One of the most common questions that job seekers with a criminal record have is whether or not a particular company hires felons. American Airlines is a popular airline in the United States, and many job seekers wonder if the company hires individuals with criminal records. In this article, we will explore whether or not American Airlines hires felons.

Background Check Policies

Like many employers, American Airlines conducts background checks on all job applicants. This policy is in place to ensure that the company hires trustworthy employees who will not pose a risk to the safety and security of passengers and other employees. American Airlines takes the safety of its passengers very seriously, and therefore, the company has strict policies regarding criminal records.

When conducting a background check, American Airlines will review an applicant’s criminal history. This includes both felony and misdemeanor convictions. The company may also review an applicant’s driving record and credit history.

American Airlines’ Hiring Policies Regarding Felons

American Airlines does not have a blanket policy that prohibits the hiring of individuals with a criminal record. Instead, the company reviews each applicant’s criminal history on a case-by-case basis. American Airlines considers the nature of the offense, the severity of the offense, and the amount of time that has passed since the offense occurred when making hiring decisions.

For example, if an individual has a minor misdemeanor offense that occurred several years ago and has had a clean record since then, American Airlines may be willing to hire that individual. However, if an individual has a recent felony conviction for a violent crime, the company is unlikely to consider that applicant for employment.

The Importance of Honesty

One of the most important things that job seekers with a criminal record can do is to be honest about their past. All job applicants are required to disclose any criminal convictions on their application. Failure to disclose this information can result in the automatic disqualification from consideration for the job.

Being honest about your criminal record can actually work in your favor. If you are upfront about your past and can demonstrate that you have taken steps to turn your life around, American Airlines may be more willing to consider you for employment. Honesty and transparency are highly valued by employers, and being upfront about your past can demonstrate that you have integrity and a commitment to personal growth.

The Benefits of Hiring Individuals with a Criminal Record

While some employers may be hesitant to hire individuals with a criminal record, there are actually many benefits to doing so. Individuals with a criminal record often have a unique perspective and life experience that can be valuable in the workplace. These individuals may also be highly motivated to succeed and prove themselves to be valuable employees.

Additionally, many employers may be eligible for tax credits or other incentives for hiring individuals with a criminal record. These incentives can help offset the cost of training and hiring new employees.

Conclusion

While American Airlines does conduct background checks on all job applicants, the company does not have a blanket policy that prohibits the hiring of individuals with a criminal record. Instead, American Airlines reviews each applicant’s criminal history on a case-by-case basis, considering the nature and severity of the offense, as well as the amount of time that has passed since the offense occurred. Job seekers with a criminal record are encouraged to be honest about their past and to demonstrate that they have taken steps to turn their lives around. By doing so, they may increase their chances of being considered for employment at American Airlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Airlines’ hiring policy?

American Airlines follows an equal employment opportunity policy and does not discriminate against any individual based on their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable law. The airline hires candidates based on their qualifications and suitability for the job.

American Airlines conducts background checks for all applicants and may consider criminal history as one factor in the hiring decision. However, the airline assesses each case individually and takes into account the nature of the offense, the time elapsed since the conviction, and other relevant factors.

What type of background check does American Airlines perform?

American Airlines conducts a comprehensive background check on all job applicants, which includes a criminal history check, employment verification, education verification, and reference checks. The airline may also conduct a drug test and a credit check, depending on the position and location.

The criminal history check includes a review of the candidate’s criminal records, sex offender registry, and terrorist watchlist. American Airlines may consider criminal history as one factor in the hiring decision, but the airline assesses each case individually and in compliance with applicable law.

What kind of offenses would disqualify a candidate from working at American Airlines?

American Airlines evaluates each candidate’s criminal history on a case-by-case basis and takes into account the nature of the offense, the time elapsed since the conviction, and other relevant factors. However, certain offenses may disqualify a candidate from working at American Airlines, such as those involving violence, theft, fraud, or drug use.

The airline also considers the safety and security of its customers, employees, and assets when making hiring decisions. Therefore, candidates with a history of terrorism, espionage, or other security-related offenses may also be disqualified from employment at American Airlines.

Can a felon work as a pilot or flight attendant at American Airlines?

American Airlines may consider candidates with a criminal history for various positions, including pilots and flight attendants, but the airline evaluates each case individually and in compliance with applicable law. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has specific regulations regarding the employment of individuals with criminal records in safety-sensitive positions, such as pilots and flight attendants.

American Airlines follows the FAA’s regulations and conducts a thorough review of each candidate’s criminal history before making a hiring decision. The airline also considers the safety and security of its customers, employees, and assets when making hiring decisions for safety-sensitive positions.

Can a candidate with a DUI conviction work at American Airlines?

American Airlines evaluates each candidate’s criminal history on a case-by-case basis and takes into account the nature of the offense, the time elapsed since the conviction, and other relevant factors. A single DUI conviction may not necessarily disqualify a candidate from working at American Airlines, but the airline assesses each case individually and in compliance with applicable law.

American Airlines may consider a candidate’s driving record and ability to obtain a commercial driver’s license when making hiring decisions for certain positions. The airline also considers the safety and security of its customers, employees, and assets when making hiring decisions.

Opening Doors: How Felons Can Secure a Job


In conclusion, the answer to whether American Airlines hires felons is not a straightforward one. While a criminal record can certainly make it more difficult to secure a job with the airline, there are instances where individuals with a criminal history have been hired.

It is important to note that American Airlines, like many other companies, has strict policies in place regarding the hiring of individuals with criminal records. These policies are in place to ensure the safety and security of passengers and employees.

However, if you have a criminal record and are interested in pursuing a career with American Airlines, it is not impossible. It is recommended that you do your research, be honest about your past, and highlight any relevant skills and experience you have. Ultimately, American Airlines will make the final decision based on your qualifications and the nature of your criminal record.

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