How Much Can US Flight Attendants Earn?

Working on passenger airlines requires special skills and attitude. The salary of flight attendants in the United States exceeds earnings in this area in many other countries. But how much exactly do flight attendants in the USA earn, and what are the features of this industry? Please, get the details in this post. 

Responsibilities during flights

It may seem that it is a very easy profession. However, it is not the case. A flight attendant has many responsibilities. The life of a passenger can often depend on his/her correct action.

During the flight, flight attendants explain safety procedures, demonstrate how to use protective equipment (such as seat belts and oxygen masks), and show you emergency procedures. At the end of the briefing, they check that the aisles are clear, luggage is properly stowed, all passengers are wearing seat belts, and that the use of gadgets by passengers complies with aviation security standards.

Requirements and qualifications

Flight attendants in the US get their earnings for a reason. To do this, they not only have to go through a certain path but also meet fairly strict requirements. Here are the main ones:

• Developed communication skills.
• Age from 21 years at the time of employment.
• Ready to work on holidays, nights, and weekends.
• Be able to push, pull, and lift objects weighing up to 70 pounds, as well as move a beverage cart up to 220 pounds.
• Strict adherence to the philosophy, mission, and policies of the company.

Applicants must also be able to complete the FAA-required 10-year review of previous employment, pass a criminal background check, fingerprinting, and FAA drug and alcohol testing. Additionally, they must complete a flight attendant training program.

Flight attendant salary

As of early 2022, the approximate monthly salary for a flight attendant in the US was around $5,000. That equates to about $30 an hour, $1,150 a week, or about $61,000 a year before taxes.

According to the top five most popular job sites in the US, the annual salary ranges from $45,500 to $102,000. At the same time, most flight attendant salaries in the US currently range from $37,800 (lowest paid 25%) to $66,500 (highest paid 25%).

The highest-paid 10% of employees earn an average of $86,700 per year. So, the salary range for a flight attendant varies greatly by more than $30,500. This indicates opportunities for promotion and increased income depending on skill level, airline, and work experience.

Average annual salary

If you’re interested in becoming a flight attendant, you might be wondering how much you can expect to make. The good news is that your average annual salary is relatively high, but your pay can vary greatly depending on the airline you work for and your level of experience.

Although there isn’t an exact number, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the flight attendant field will grow by 10% during the next decade. That’s far more than the average growth rate for other occupations in the U.S. The Bureau also predicts that 11,900 jobs will be added from 2018 through 2028.

In addition to pay, you may receive other benefits, such as free travel or accommodation. Your income can also increase as you gain experience. You might even get a bigger bonus for working for one of the major airlines.

The average salary for a flight attendant can be anywhere from $22,000 to $49,000 per year. Some of the highest-paid flight attendants earn up to $64 to 66,000 year.

The pay for a flight attendant can vary a lot, based on your experience, the company you work for, and your location. The best-paid 10 percent of workers make more than $54,000 a year.

Many Flight attendants work for airlines that have a high reputation for paying their employees fairly. Companies like Southwest and American Airlines are popular with workers in the industry.

The BLS compiled data on average flight attendant salaries for 18 states. They found that the state with the highest average salary is Connecticut. The pay is nearly $24,000 more than the national average.

Other states with higher pay for Flight attendants include Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, and New York.

Base salary

Flight attendants work on flights, offering customer service to passengers. They also respond to emergencies and fill out safety reports. They are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration. They are paid hourly or salaried according to their contract with the airline.

The average salary for US Flight Attendants is around $56,630 per year. This is just over a third of the average annual salary for all occupations. It may not be as much as an average professional worker’s salary, but it is better than the average service worker’s salary.

Besides the average salary, many airlines offer flight benefits and discounts. United Airlines, for instance, provides free/reduced airfare for qualifying family members. It also offers hotel, cruise and car discounts.

Depending on the airline, you could get a per diem meal allowance. Most airlines will also provide a free or discounted flight for your friends or family.

Another benefit to becoming a flight attendant is the opportunity to earn extra money in special roles. This can include pursers and galley leads.

The airline industry has been in turmoil over the past two years, as many flights have been cancelled. There have also been new pandemic regulations that have affected staff shortages.

The average flight attendant salary in the US can be significantly higher in certain states. Seven states pay more than the national average. Connecticut, for instance, pays a whopping $111,500 annually. Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Oregon are also among the highest-paying states.

Depending on your experience and the company you work for, your salary can range from $27 to $41 per hour. The base salary can be lower if you are just starting out.

The number of hours you work, your seniority, and the airline you work for all play a role in your salary. You can also decide to have deductions for medical insurance, luggage, and vision insurance.

Per diem rates

Per diem rates for US flight attendants vary greatly. Some airlines have a fixed rate, while others calculate it based on the number of flights they fly.

The per diem allowance is given to flight attendants to cover the cost of living away from home while on duty. In addition, meals are also reimbursed.

Flight attendants are paid a per diem allowance as part of their guaranteed hour salary. Per diem rates vary from airline to airline, but the average is about $2.20 an hour.

Some flight attendants may receive additional per diem pay for outstation hours. In addition, they can pick up additional flights, increasing their earning potential.

Typically, airline crews are paid less when they are away from the plane when the door is closed. If the door is open, however, they are typically paid more.

Flight attendants are also able to claim a per diem for miscellaneous expenses while on their trip. This is usually the case for meals, but it can also be used to reimburse other travel-related costs.

The government sets per diem rates depending on location. They are effective October 1 of each year. They can be found by ZIP code, state, or city. The maximum amount is based on the number of days the traveler is away.

Flight attendants can also take advantage of the layover payment by Delta. This works out automatically, so there is no need to bring receipts with you. During the first year with Endeavor, flight attendants can earn a $5,000 retention bonus.

Flight attendants can receive a tax break on their per diems if they have a layover. This will give them a few extra days to use during their trip.

Salary potential based on seniority

Looking for a way to make money while on the road, consider a career as a US flight attendant. These highly paid employees are responsible for providing customer service to passengers and are often offered good benefits. However, the earning potential of a flight attendant can vary, based on factors like seniority and number of hours worked.

A new flight attendant will start off with a relatively modest pay, but they can quickly earn more once they gain experience. Many flight attendants take advantage of a variety of extra trips to boost their earnings.

Although they’re not as prestigious as pilots, flight attendants are rewarded with great benefits, like health insurance. Some airlines also offer retirement plans.

Flight attendants can be found throughout the United States. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 10-percent growth in the field over the next decade. That means that there will be a lot more job openings than in the past.

In addition to a well-paying job, flight attendants can enjoy a few extra perks, like a per diem rate for meals. They can also take a day off for every six hours they work. This is particularly important for flight attendants who work long-haul routes, where they may have to fly several days in a row.

Although the average flight attendant salary is $48,550, some airlines have significantly higher wages. The top flight attendants at legacy airlines can earn more than $78,000 a year.

The pay scale for flight attendants can range from $2 an hour to $10 an hour, depending on the carrier. If you’re on the straight-pay scale, you’ll receive a higher base rate and less overtime premium pay.

Employment outlook

The job outlook for US flight attendants indicates a 10 percent increase in available positions between now and 2026. In addition to the traditional flight attendant duties, aircraft service attendants also provide other services, such as security checks, monitoring the cabin safety, and serving food.

Most airlines require a high school diploma or GED. However, some companies require applicants to have a university degree. It’s also helpful to have previous guest services experience.

Most airline crew members work full-time, but their schedules can vary. This means that they have the option to take time off to spend more time with family. Some airlines allow flight attendants to take advantage of an employee retirement plan.

Some airline employees may also be eligible for premium pay based on their experience. In addition, many airlines offer college matching programs to help dependents cover the cost of attending college.

Compared to other occupations, the employment growth for flight attendants is expected to be significantly faster. The average salary for a Flight attendant is estimated to grow ten percent from 2018 to 2028.

The demand for cabin crew is anticipated to grow in the Asia Pacific region. In addition, newer, larger aircraft may be able to handle more passengers. These types of aircraft will have more flight attendants than smaller ones.

A high school or university diploma is usually required for a flight attendant position. The number of applicants often exceeds the number of available openings.

Flight attendants must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration. Interested candidates, contact the personnel division of the airline. Some airlines have recruiting teams that travel around the country.

Top 10 states with the highest salaries of flight attendants

Analysts have compiled a list of 10 states with the highest average salaries for flight attendants. These are: 

1. Washington – $66,700
2. Maryland – $65,900
3. Nebraska – $64,500
4. Virginia – $63,700
5. New York – $63,600
6. Delaware – $61,700
7. New Hampshire – $61,500
8. Oklahoma – $59,900
9. California – $59,700
10. Massachusetts – $58,900

So, now, you know how much a flight attendant can earn in different US states. It is indeed a very attractive and interesting work, which requires a high concentration of attention and sociability.

How Much Can US Flight Attendants Earn?

Working on passenger airlines requires special skills and attitude. The salary of flight attendants in the United States exceeds earnings in this area in many other countries. But how much exactly do flight attendants in the USA earn, and what are the features of this industry? Please, get the details in this post. 

Responsibilities during flights

It may seem that it is a very easy profession. However, it is not the case. A flight attendant has many responsibilities. The life of a passenger can often depend on his/her correct action.

During the flight, flight attendants explain safety procedures, demonstrate how to use protective equipment (such as seat belts and oxygen masks), and show you emergency procedures. At the end of the briefing, they check that the aisles are clear, luggage is properly stowed, all passengers are wearing seat belts, and that the use of gadgets by passengers complies with aviation security standards.

Requirements and qualifications

Flight attendants in the US get their earnings for a reason. To do this, they not only have to go through a certain path but also meet fairly strict requirements. Here are the main ones:

• Developed communication skills.
• Age from 21 years at the time of employment.
• Ready to work on holidays, nights, and weekends.
• Be able to push, pull, and lift objects weighing up to 70 pounds, as well as move a beverage cart up to 220 pounds.
• Strict adherence to the philosophy, mission, and policies of the company.

Applicants must also be able to complete the FAA-required 10-year review of previous employment, pass a criminal background check, fingerprinting, and FAA drug and alcohol testing. Additionally, they must complete a flight attendant training program.

Flight attendant salary

As of early 2022, the approximate monthly salary for a flight attendant in the US was around $5,000. That equates to about $30 an hour, $1,150 a week, or about $61,000 a year before taxes.

According to the top five most popular job sites in the US, the annual salary ranges from $45,500 to $102,000. At the same time, most flight attendant salaries in the US currently range from $37,800 (lowest paid 25%) to $66,500 (highest paid 25%).

The highest-paid 10% of employees earn an average of $86,700 per year. So, the salary range for a flight attendant varies greatly by more than $30,500. This indicates opportunities for promotion and increased income depending on skill level, airline, and work experience.

Average annual salary

If you’re interested in becoming a flight attendant, you might be wondering how much you can expect to make. The good news is that your average annual salary is relatively high, but your pay can vary greatly depending on the airline you work for and your level of experience.

Although there isn’t an exact number, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the flight attendant field will grow by 10% during the next decade. That’s far more than the average growth rate for other occupations in the U.S. The Bureau also predicts that 11,900 jobs will be added from 2018 through 2028.

In addition to pay, you may receive other benefits, such as free travel or accommodation. Your income can also increase as you gain experience. You might even get a bigger bonus for working for one of the major airlines.

The average salary for a flight attendant can be anywhere from $22,000 to $49,000 per year. Some of the highest-paid flight attendants earn up to $64 to 66,000 year.

The pay for a flight attendant can vary a lot, based on your experience, the company you work for, and your location. The best-paid 10 percent of workers make more than $54,000 a year.

Many Flight attendants work for airlines that have a high reputation for paying their employees fairly. Companies like Southwest and American Airlines are popular with workers in the industry.

The BLS compiled data on average flight attendant salaries for 18 states. They found that the state with the highest average salary is Connecticut. The pay is nearly $24,000 more than the national average.

Other states with higher pay for Flight attendants include Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, and New York.

Base salary

Flight attendants work on flights, offering customer service to passengers. They also respond to emergencies and fill out safety reports. They are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration. They are paid hourly or salaried according to their contract with the airline.

The average salary for US Flight Attendants is around $56,630 per year. This is just over a third of the average annual salary for all occupations. It may not be as much as an average professional worker’s salary, but it is better than the average service worker’s salary.

Besides the average salary, many airlines offer flight benefits and discounts. United Airlines, for instance, provides free/reduced airfare for qualifying family members. It also offers hotel, cruise and car discounts.

Depending on the airline, you could get a per diem meal allowance. Most airlines will also provide a free or discounted flight for your friends or family.

Another benefit to becoming a flight attendant is the opportunity to earn extra money in special roles. This can include pursers and galley leads.

The airline industry has been in turmoil over the past two years, as many flights have been cancelled. There have also been new pandemic regulations that have affected staff shortages.

The average flight attendant salary in the US can be significantly higher in certain states. Seven states pay more than the national average. Connecticut, for instance, pays a whopping $111,500 annually. Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Oregon are also among the highest-paying states.

Depending on your experience and the company you work for, your salary can range from $27 to $41 per hour. The base salary can be lower if you are just starting out.

The number of hours you work, your seniority, and the airline you work for all play a role in your salary. You can also decide to have deductions for medical insurance, luggage, and vision insurance.

Per diem rates

Per diem rates for US flight attendants vary greatly. Some airlines have a fixed rate, while others calculate it based on the number of flights they fly.

The per diem allowance is given to flight attendants to cover the cost of living away from home while on duty. In addition, meals are also reimbursed.

Flight attendants are paid a per diem allowance as part of their guaranteed hour salary. Per diem rates vary from airline to airline, but the average is about $2.20 an hour.

Some flight attendants may receive additional per diem pay for outstation hours. In addition, they can pick up additional flights, increasing their earning potential.

Typically, airline crews are paid less when they are away from the plane when the door is closed. If the door is open, however, they are typically paid more.

Flight attendants are also able to claim a per diem for miscellaneous expenses while on their trip. This is usually the case for meals, but it can also be used to reimburse other travel-related costs.

The government sets per diem rates depending on location. They are effective October 1 of each year. They can be found by ZIP code, state, or city. The maximum amount is based on the number of days the traveler is away.

Flight attendants can also take advantage of the layover payment by Delta. This works out automatically, so there is no need to bring receipts with you. During the first year with Endeavor, flight attendants can earn a $5,000 retention bonus.

Flight attendants can receive a tax break on their per diems if they have a layover. This will give them a few extra days to use during their trip.

Salary potential based on seniority

Looking for a way to make money while on the road, consider a career as a US flight attendant. These highly paid employees are responsible for providing customer service to passengers and are often offered good benefits. However, the earning potential of a flight attendant can vary, based on factors like seniority and number of hours worked.

A new flight attendant will start off with a relatively modest pay, but they can quickly earn more once they gain experience. Many flight attendants take advantage of a variety of extra trips to boost their earnings.

Although they’re not as prestigious as pilots, flight attendants are rewarded with great benefits, like health insurance. Some airlines also offer retirement plans.

Flight attendants can be found throughout the United States. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 10-percent growth in the field over the next decade. That means that there will be a lot more job openings than in the past.

In addition to a well-paying job, flight attendants can enjoy a few extra perks, like a per diem rate for meals. They can also take a day off for every six hours they work. This is particularly important for flight attendants who work long-haul routes, where they may have to fly several days in a row.

Although the average flight attendant salary is $48,550, some airlines have significantly higher wages. The top flight attendants at legacy airlines can earn more than $78,000 a year.

The pay scale for flight attendants can range from $2 an hour to $10 an hour, depending on the carrier. If you’re on the straight-pay scale, you’ll receive a higher base rate and less overtime premium pay.

Employment outlook

The job outlook for US flight attendants indicates a 10 percent increase in available positions between now and 2026. In addition to the traditional flight attendant duties, aircraft service attendants also provide other services, such as security checks, monitoring the cabin safety, and serving food.

Most airlines require a high school diploma or GED. However, some companies require applicants to have a university degree. It’s also helpful to have previous guest services experience.

Most airline crew members work full-time, but their schedules can vary. This means that they have the option to take time off to spend more time with family. Some airlines allow flight attendants to take advantage of an employee retirement plan.

Some airline employees may also be eligible for premium pay based on their experience. In addition, many airlines offer college matching programs to help dependents cover the cost of attending college.

Compared to other occupations, the employment growth for flight attendants is expected to be significantly faster. The average salary for a Flight attendant is estimated to grow ten percent from 2018 to 2028.

The demand for cabin crew is anticipated to grow in the Asia Pacific region. In addition, newer, larger aircraft may be able to handle more passengers. These types of aircraft will have more flight attendants than smaller ones.

A high school or university diploma is usually required for a flight attendant position. The number of applicants often exceeds the number of available openings.

Flight attendants must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration. Interested candidates, contact the personnel division of the airline. Some airlines have recruiting teams that travel around the country.

Top 10 states with the highest salaries of flight attendants

Analysts have compiled a list of 10 states with the highest average salaries for flight attendants. These are: 

1. Washington – $66,700
2. Maryland – $65,900
3. Nebraska – $64,500
4. Virginia – $63,700
5. New York – $63,600
6. Delaware – $61,700
7. New Hampshire – $61,500
8. Oklahoma – $59,900
9. California – $59,700
10. Massachusetts – $58,900

So, now, you know how much a flight attendant can earn in different US states. It is indeed a very attractive and interesting work, which requires a high concentration of attention and sociability.