Here, at Smart Team, every colleague has a unique story, and some of the most inspiring ones start in the skies. We’re happy to celebrate our colleagues who started their aviation careers as Cabin Crew and have soared to new heights, transitioning into key roles on the ground.

Continuing our Crew to Office article series, we highlight Erge Rannu – our Head of Cabin Operations. Her journey from the skies to the ground is a story of growth, resilience, and a lifelong love for aviation. 

Erge's Cabin Crew journey started 26 years ago while studying at university. "I needed a way to support myself financially, and one day, I came across a job ad in the newspaper for a cabin crew position," shares Erge. "When I started, flying was still exclusive to many, but now it is part of normal life.” 

When asked what her favorite part about being a Cabin Crew is, Erge emphasizes the people: "It was and still is interaction with passengers. It is very heart-warming to meet people traveling by air for the first time and be able to make this experience a wow factor for them." Erge's love for people hasn't diminished as she still occasionally operates flights while being Head of Cabin Crew Operations at SmartLynx Airlines. She explains, "Moving forward was a gradual move, however, I have never given up on our office in the sky". 

Erge acknowledges all the learnings she had during her experience as Cabin Crew. It has developed her problem-solving and quick-thinking skills, to name a few. Erge also emphasizes the responsibility aspect of Cabin Crew operations. Being thousands of feet up in the sky puts a lot of pressure and responsibility on paying attention to every detail and safety.

"I can say that I've seen millions of people and faced a cultural diversity that has significantly impacted my cultural awareness and communication skills. I'm widely using all these abilities in my current position while working with Cabin Crew members from all over the world," she shares. 

Erge particularly recalls one situation she encountered as a Cabin Crew during a flight that is still living in her head rent-free, "One time a young woman asked me to feel her chest to check if her heart is still beating. Because of the fear of flying, she was so stressed that her heart had stopped. Not a dull moment when working as cabin crew!"

We're glad to have you as part of the Smart Team, Erge!