What is an ATS (Applicant Tracking System)?
And Why It Matters for Your Cabin Crew Application
If you’re applying for a cabin crew position with top airlines like Emirates, Etihad, or Qatar Airways, your resume won’t go straight to a human recruiter — it will first be scanned by a computer system called an Applicant Tracking System (ATS).
Understanding how this system works (and how to beat it!) is key to getting noticed and shortlisted.
What Is an ATS?
An Applicant Tracking System is a software tool airlines use to handle large numbers of job applications.
It helps recruiters by:
Posting job ads online (on websites, job boards, LinkedIn)
Collecting thousands of CVs in one place
Scanning and ranking those CVs based on keywords
Automatically filtering out applicants who don’t match
💡 Think of the ATS as a digital gatekeeper — if your CV isn’t formatted correctly or doesn’t include the right keywords, it may get rejected before a human ever sees it.
How Does an ATS Work?
When you apply online:
Your CV is uploaded into the ATS.
The system scans it for specific keywords — such as “customer service,” “hospitality,” or “emergency procedures.”
It checks your experience, education, and skills against the job requirements.
Based on how closely your resume matches, it gives you a score.
Only the top-ranking candidates move forward to the recruiter.
ATS in action
ATS Systems Used by Top Airlines
Emirates Airline
Emirates uses SAP SuccessFactors — one of the most advanced ATS platforms globally.
✔️ It’s very strict with formatting and keyword relevance.
❌ Avoid using tables, images, or columns. Keep your CV clean and simple.
Etihad Airways
Etihad also uses SAP SuccessFactors, similar to Emirates.
✔️ Focus on clear headings, strong action words, and direct matches to the job ad.
📝 Use phrases like “customer interaction,” “safety procedures,” or “team communication.”
Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways uses Oracle Taleo, a powerful ATS used by many large companies.
✔️ This system is sensitive to structure. Keep your file in a simple format (Word or PDF), and avoid graphics or fancy layouts.
Why Social Media Matters Too
Today, recruiters also check LinkedIn profiles to search for suitable candidates.
Make sure your LinkedIn:
Matches the experience on your CV
Highlights your people skills and travel interests
Includes a clear, professional photo
A strong LinkedIn presence can help you get noticed — even before you apply.
How to Make Your CV ATS-Friendly
Here are some essential tips to beat the system:
✅ Use keywords from the job description (e.g., “hospitality,” “teamwork,” “safety”)
✅ Keep formatting simple: no columns, no icons, no images
✅ Use standard section titles: Experience, Education, Skills
✅ Save your file as .docx or PDF, depending on what the airline requests
✅ Tailor your CV for each application — don’t send the same version everywhere
Why It Matters
Emirates receives around 15,000 cabin crew applications every month. Without a proper ATS-optimized CV, you could be eliminated before a recruiter even sees your name.
Even worse? If you’re not shortlisted, most airlines ask you to wait 6 months before reapplying.
🎯 Don’t lose time — get it right the first time!
Need Help Creating an ATS-Friendly Cabin Crew CV?
We specialize in writing CVs that pass the ATS test and impress airline recruiters.
✔️ Optimized with the right keywords
✔️ Tailored for Emirates, Etihad, or Qatar Airways
✔️ Error-free, simple, and professional
👉 Let us write your CV and help you take the first step toward the skies.
Remember: The better your CV, the better your chances — not just of getting seen, but of getting hired.
📩 Need help?