Rylan Clark achieves lifelong career dream - as he becomes cabin crew for a day

Rylan Clark achieved his lifelong dream of becoming an airline cabin crew – for one day only. Customers on a Virgin Atlantic flight from London to Miami were welcomed by the much-loved TV star, dressed head to toe in the airline’s iconic Vivienne Westwood uniform.

The presenter took part in a staff training session alongside the Economy team whilst cruising at 38,000ft – learning how to deliver a warm welcome and announcements over the PA.

It comes as research of 2,000 adults found 66 percent reckon the overall onboard experience can “make or break” a holiday.

Ombi Farr, flight service manager at Virgin Atlantic, said: “It was a pleasure having Rylan onboard to test out his service skills, and see if he can embody our unique red spirit.

“We want all of our customers to feel special when they fly with us, no matter which cabin they’re in – and Rylan really did go the extra mile to do that. He brought the energy, warmth, and fun that our customers know and love.”

Putting his height to good use by helping passengers stow hand luggage in the overhead lockers, Rylan made a good impression on the crew – even adding his signature style to the drinks service, and providing some surprises with mid-flight ice lollies.

But like any new starter, there was room for development – as the crew caught Rylan taking a sneaky, unscheduled snack break to enjoy the Mile High afternoon tea, and getting caught up with families enjoying the in-flight kids’ packs.

It comes after the study, commissioned by the airline, found a warm and welcoming cabin crew (75 percent), good food and drink (61 percent), and small and personal touches to make people feel special (41 percent), are important factors in gaining a positive in-flight experience.

Half of holidaymakers (49 percent) believe their holiday starts the moment they arrive at the airport, with 80 percent claiming a great flight means they enjoy their holiday more. And nine in 10 even said it can make them feel more relaxed, according to the OnePoll.com data.

Corneel Koster, Virgin Atlantic’s chief customer and operating officer, said: “A journey truly comes to life the moment our customers step on to the plane, and we want to make sure that everyone enjoys a special experience – no matter what cabin they’re travelling in.

“Rylan has that natural warmth and amazing personality that our crew are famous for, and with a little more training I’m confident he’ll earn his Virgin Atlantic wings.”