If you're considering a career as a flight attendant, you're likely wondering how much you can expect to make. Flight attendants' salaries vary depending on their experience, the airline they work for, and the number of hours they fly. In this article, we'll take a look at the average salary of flight attendants and explore some of the factors that affect their earnings.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for flight attendants was $59,330 in May 2021. This means that half of all flight attendants earned more than this amount, while half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $32,640, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $99,540.
Now that we know the average salary of flight attendants, let's take a look at some of the factors that can affect their earnings.
How Much Do Flight Attendants Make Per Month?
Here are 8 key points to remember:
- Median annual wage: $59,330
- Median hourly wage: $28.52
- Top 10% earn over $99,540
- Bottom 10% earn under $32,640
- Salary varies by experience
- Salary varies by airline
- Salary varies by hours flown
- Additional perks and benefits
In addition to their base salary, flight attendants also receive various perks and benefits, such as free or discounted flights, health insurance, and retirement plans.
Median annual wage: $59,330
The median annual wage for flight attendants was $59,330 in May 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means that half of all flight attendants earned more than this amount, while half earned less.
- Experience:
Flight attendants with more experience typically earn higher salaries. This is because they have more seniority and are more likely to be assigned to more desirable flights.
- Airline:
Flight attendants' salaries can also vary depending on the airline they work for. Some airlines pay their flight attendants more than others. For example, flight attendants who work for major airlines typically earn higher salaries than those who work for regional airlines.
- Hours flown:
Flight attendants' salaries are also affected by the number of hours they fly. Flight attendants who fly more hours typically earn higher salaries.
- Perks and benefits:
In addition to their base salary, flight attendants also receive various perks and benefits, such as free or discounted flights, health insurance, and retirement plans. These perks and benefits can add to their overall compensation package.
Overall, flight attendants' salaries can vary depending on a number of factors. However, the median annual wage of $59,330 is a good starting point for those who are considering a career in this field.
Median hourly wage: $28.52
The median hourly wage for flight attendants was $28.52 in May 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means that half of all flight attendants earned more than this amount, while half earned less.
To calculate the median hourly wage, we divide the median annual wage by the number of hours worked in a year. For flight attendants, the median annual wage is $59,330 and the median number of hours worked in a year is 2,080. Therefore, the median hourly wage is $59,330 ÷ 2,080 = $28.52.
It's important to note that flight attendants' hourly wages can vary depending on a number of factors, including their experience, the airline they work for, and the number of hours they fly. For example, flight attendants with more experience typically earn higher hourly wages than those with less experience. Additionally, flight attendants who work for major airlines typically earn higher hourly wages than those who work for regional airlines.
Finally, it's worth noting that flight attendants also receive various perks and benefits in addition to their hourly wage. These perks and benefits can add to their overall compensation package and make working as a flight attendant an attractive career option for many people.
Overall, the median hourly wage of $28.52 is a good starting point for those who are considering a career as a flight attendant. However, it's important to keep in mind that flight attendants' hourly wages can vary depending on a number of factors.
Top 10% earn over $99,540
The top 10% of flight attendants earn over $99,540 per year. This means that these flight attendants are among the highest-paid workers in the occupation.
- Experience:
Flight attendants with more experience typically earn higher salaries. This is because they have more seniority and are more likely to be assigned to more desirable flights.
- Airline:
Flight attendants who work for major airlines typically earn higher salaries than those who work for regional airlines. This is because major airlines typically have more resources and can afford to pay their flight attendants more.
- Hours flown:
Flight attendants who fly more hours typically earn higher salaries. This is because they are paid by the hour.
- Additional qualifications:
Flight attendants who have additional qualifications, such as a college degree or foreign language proficiency, may also earn higher salaries.
Overall, the top 10% of flight attendants earn over $99,540 per year due to a combination of factors, including experience, airline, hours flown, and additional qualifications.
Bottom 10% earn under $32,640
The bottom 10% of flight attendants earn under $32,640 per year. This means that these flight attendants are among the lowest-paid workers in the occupation.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to a flight attendant earning a lower salary. These factors include:
- Experience:
Flight attendants with less experience typically earn lower salaries. This is because they have less seniority and are less likely to be assigned to more desirable flights.
- Airline:
Flight attendants who work for regional airlines typically earn lower salaries than those who work for major airlines. This is because regional airlines typically have fewer resources and cannot afford to pay their flight attendants as much.
- Hours flown:
Flight attendants who fly fewer hours typically earn lower salaries. This is because they are paid by the hour.
- Additional qualifications:
Flight attendants who do not have additional qualifications, such as a college degree or foreign language proficiency, may also earn lower salaries.
Overall, the bottom 10% of flight attendants earn under $32,640 per year due to a combination of factors, including experience, airline, hours flown, and additional qualifications.
It is important to note that even the lowest-paid flight attendants still earn a living wage. The median annual wage for flight attendants is $59,330, which is higher than the median annual wage for all workers in the United States.
Salary varies by experience
One of the biggest factors that affects a flight attendant's salary is their experience. Flight attendants with more experience typically earn higher salaries than those with less experience.
- Entry-level flight attendants:
Flight attendants with less than two years of experience are typically considered entry-level. Entry-level flight attendants typically earn lower salaries than more experienced flight attendants.
- Mid-level flight attendants:
Flight attendants with two to five years of experience are typically considered mid-level. Mid-level flight attendants typically earn higher salaries than entry-level flight attendants, but less than senior flight attendants.
- Senior flight attendants:
Flight attendants with more than five years of experience are typically considered senior. Senior flight attendants typically earn the highest salaries of all flight attendants.
- Flight attendants with specialized skills:
Flight attendants with specialized skills, such as foreign language proficiency or medical training, may also earn higher salaries.
Overall, flight attendants with more experience typically earn higher salaries than those with less experience. This is because more experienced flight attendants are more valuable to airlines. They have more knowledge and skills, and they are more likely to be able to handle difficult situations.
Salary varies by airline
Another factor that affects a flight attendant's salary is the airline they work for. Some airlines pay their flight attendants more than others.
- Major airlines:
Flight attendants who work for major airlines typically earn higher salaries than those who work for regional airlines. This is because major airlines typically have more resources and can afford to pay their flight attendants more.
- Regional airlines:
Flight attendants who work for regional airlines typically earn lower salaries than those who work for major airlines. This is because regional airlines typically have fewer resources and cannot afford to pay their flight attendants as much.
- Low-cost airlines:
Flight attendants who work for low-cost airlines typically earn the lowest salaries of all flight attendants. This is because low-cost airlines are always looking for ways to save money, and one way they do this is by paying their flight attendants less.
- Charter airlines:
Flight attendants who work for charter airlines may earn higher or lower salaries than flight attendants who work for scheduled airlines. This depends on the specific charter airline and its business model.
Overall, flight attendants who work for major airlines typically earn the highest salaries, while flight attendants who work for low-cost airlines typically earn the lowest salaries. However, there is some variation within each category, so it is important to research the specific airline you are interested in working for to find out what their salary range is.
Salary varies by hours flown
Another factor that affects a flight attendant's salary is the number of hours they fly. Flight attendants are paid by the hour, so the more hours they fly, the more money they make.
- Full-time flight attendants:
Full-time flight attendants typically fly more hours than part-time flight attendants. As a result, they typically earn higher salaries.
- Part-time flight attendants:
Part-time flight attendants typically fly fewer hours than full-time flight attendants. As a result, they typically earn lower salaries.
- Reserve flight attendants:
Reserve flight attendants are on call to fill in for flight attendants who are sick or on vacation. They typically fly fewer hours than full-time or part-time flight attendants, and they typically earn lower salaries.
- Flight attendants who work extra hours:
Flight attendants who work extra hours, such as overtime or on holidays, typically earn more money than flight attendants who only work their regular scheduled hours.
Overall, flight attendants who fly more hours typically earn higher salaries than those who fly fewer hours. This is because flight attendants are paid by the hour.
Additional perks and benefits
In addition to their base salary, flight attendants also receive a number of perks and benefits. These perks and benefits can add to their overall compensation package and make working as a flight attendant an attractive career option for many people.
Some of the most common perks and benefits that flight attendants receive include:
- Free or discounted flights:
Flight attendants typically receive free or discounted flights for themselves and their immediate family members. This can be a valuable perk, especially for flight attendants who travel frequently.
- Health insurance:
Most airlines offer health insurance plans to their flight attendants. This is an important benefit, especially for flight attendants who do not have health insurance through another employer.
- Retirement plans:
Many airlines offer retirement plans to their flight attendants. These plans can help flight attendants save for their retirement and ensure that they have a secure financial future.
- Other perks:
Flight attendants may also receive other perks, such as free or discounted hotel stays, car rentals, and meals. These perks can help flight attendants save money and make their travel more enjoyable.
Overall, the additional perks and benefits that flight attendants receive can add significantly to their overall compensation package. These perks and benefits can make working as a flight attendant a very attractive career option for many people.
It is important to note that the specific perks and benefits that flight attendants receive can vary depending on the airline they work for. Some airlines offer more generous perks and benefits than others.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about how much flight attendants make per month:
Question 1: What is the average monthly salary for flight attendants?
Answer 1: The average monthly salary for flight attendants in the United States is $5,933, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Question 2: What factors affect a flight attendant's salary?
Answer 2: A flight attendant's salary can be affected by a number of factors, including their experience, the airline they work for, the number of hours they fly, and any additional qualifications they may have.
Question 3: How much do flight attendants make per hour?
Answer 3: The average hourly wage for flight attendants in the United States is $28.52, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Question 4: Do flight attendants get paid for overtime?
Answer 4: Yes, flight attendants are paid for overtime. They are typically paid time and a half for any hours they work over 40 hours per week.
Question 5: What are some of the benefits that flight attendants receive?
Answer 5: Flight attendants typically receive a number of benefits, including free or discounted flights, health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks.
Question 6: What is the job outlook for flight attendants?
Answer 6: The job outlook for flight attendants is expected to be good over the next few years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the number of flight attendant jobs will grow by 10% from 2020 to 2030.
Question 7: What are some tips for becoming a flight attendant?
Answer 7: Some tips for becoming a flight attendant include getting a good education, staying healthy and fit, and having a strong customer service orientation.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about how much flight attendants make per month. If you are interested in learning more about this career, there are a number of resources available online and from your local library.
Now that you know more about how much flight attendants make per month, you can start planning your career as a flight attendant.
Tips
Here are a few tips for increasing your monthly salary as a flight attendant:
Tip 1: Get more experience.
The more experience you have, the more valuable you will be to airlines. As a result, you will be able to command a higher salary.
Tip 2: Work for a major airline.
Major airlines typically pay their flight attendants more than regional airlines. This is because major airlines have more resources and can afford to pay their flight attendants more.
Tip 3: Fly more hours.
Flight attendants are paid by the hour, so the more hours you fly, the more money you will make. If you are able to work extra hours or overtime, you can increase your monthly salary.
Tip 4: Get additional qualifications.
Flight attendants with additional qualifications, such as a college degree or foreign language proficiency, may be able to earn higher salaries. Some airlines also offer pay increases for flight attendants who are willing to work on international flights or who have specialized skills, such as medical training.
Closing Paragraph for Tips
By following these tips, you can increase your monthly salary as a flight attendant. Remember, the more experience you have, the more valuable you will be to airlines, and the higher your salary will be.
Now that you know how to increase your monthly salary as a flight attendant, you can start planning your career and working towards your financial goals.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed how much flight attendants make per month. We have also explored some of the factors that affect their earnings, such as their experience, the airline they work for, the number of hours they fly, and any additional qualifications they may have.
We have also provided some tips for increasing your monthly salary as a flight attendant. By following these tips, you can increase your value to airlines and earn a higher salary.
Closing Message
Working as a flight attendant can be a rewarding career. Flight attendants get to travel the world, meet new people, and help passengers have a safe and enjoyable flight. If you are interested in a career as a flight attendant, there are a number of resources available to help you get started.