In a previous article, I discussed how flight attendant salaries in the Philippines are computed. However, I was unable to provide exact figures because airlines have requested confidentiality due to the variability of cabin crew salaries. To satisfy the curiosity of those wondering how much flight attendants earn, I’ve gathered some information on the salary ranges for flight attendants employed by airlines in the United States and the Middle East.
It is said that the United States offers some of the highest salaries for flight attendants. Among other carriers, Emirates is also known for offering competitive salaries and excellent perks.
I am writing this for informational purposes only, in case others are curious. Again, I am providing only estimates and ranges based on various sources.
Salaries of US Flight Attendants
According to a report from CabinCrew24, flight attendants at United Airlines have an average yearly income of $44,219. Those who are seasoned and have risen through the ranks at United Airlines can earn close to $100,000 a year, reflecting their dedication and career growth. Additionally, United Airlines supplements their pay with bonuses, commission-based earnings, and profit-sharing that, on average, add up to about $5,200 annually.
Flight attendants at Delta Airlines have an average annual salary of $40,236. As they gain seniority, their hourly pay rate can increase significantly. Senior flight attendants at Delta can make upwards of $118,000 a year, which includes additional earnings from per diem allowances, international flight duties, and various other benefits.
Flight attendants at Alaska Airlines receive an average yearly salary of $53,000. The airline is known for its exceptional employee programs, which include bonuses, commissions, and profit-sharing, adding an extra $3,400 on average to their annual income.
At American Airlines, the average yearly salary for flight attendants is $43,460. Those with significant experience, particularly the highest-earning 10%, can anticipate an average salary of $86,000 per year. Additionally, the airline offers extra financial perks, including bonuses, commissions, and profit-sharing, which on average add another $2,825 annually to their compensation.
Here is a table showing the salaries of flight attendants in the United States.
| Airline | Low (Bottom 10%) | Average | High (Top 10%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | $30,000 | $43,460 | $86,000 |
| Delta Airlines | $24,000 | $40,236 | $91,000 |
| Southwest Airlines | $30,000 | $42,000 | $65,000 |
| JetBlue | $32,000 | $42,500 | $103,000 |
| United Airlines | $28,000 | $44,129 | $100,000 |
| Spirit Airlines | $25,000 | $39,000 | $68,000 |
| Frontier Airlines | $27,000 | $29,400 | $45,000 |
The Benefits of Flight Attendants on Top of Salaries
Flight attendants enjoy a range of benefits that extend far beyond their monthly paychecks. These advantages not only enhance their personal lives but also provide financial and lifestyle flexibility.
Health and Future Security
One of the primary benefits flight attendants receive is comprehensive health insurance. Most airlines ensure their flight attendants are covered, offering peace of mind regarding their health and well-being. This coverage is a significant advantage, considering the rising costs of healthcare.
In addition to health insurance, retirement plans are a standard offering from most major airlines. These plans are a crucial aspect of long-term financial security, allowing flight attendants to save and invest for their future with the support of their employer.
Travel Benefits
Perhaps the most well-known perk of being a flight attendant is the ability to fly for free. When off-duty, flight attendants can take advantage of available seats on flights, allowing them to explore destinations far and wide without the burden of costly airfare. This benefit often extends to family members, making it possible for loved ones to join in on these adventures.
Reimbursements and Accommodations
While traveling for work, flight attendants are not left to fend for themselves. Airlines typically reimburse the food expenses incurred by their crew members during layovers. This reimbursement policy is a thoughtful way to ensure that flight attendants can enjoy meals without worrying about the costs.
Hotel accommodations are another significant perk. When layovers require overnight stays, airlines provide hotel rooms for their flight attendants. This not only ensures a comfortable rest between flights but also adds a layer of safety and convenience, as the accommodations are usually pre-arranged and paid for by the airline.
Other Airlines
According to its website, Emirates economy class flight attendants (grade II) have an average salary of $2,828 per month (AED 10,388), based on 80 to 100 flying hours per month. The compensation package includes a fixed base salary of $1,266 monthly (converted from AED 4,650), an hourly wage of $17.36 (AED 63.75) for operated flights, and an allowance for meals during international flights.
Emirates flight attendants have the potential to make between $36,000 and $53,000 a year. This includes a tax-free income, payment for flight hours, and a base salary. Additionally, Emirates offers complimentary housing, covering the cost of living expenses, as part of the tax-free benefits in the UAE.
I hope this now feeds your curiosity on how much flight attendants earn. However, you must also take into account that these salaries are influenced by the cost of living in each country, local labor laws, and aviation regulations.
Thus, if you convert these figures to Philippine Pesos, they may seem quite substantial. However, consider the cost of living in these countries as well. Also, take into account the work permits and requirements to fly for these airlines. But then again, let’s not forget that flight attendants bear significant responsibility once they step inside the aircraft, which justifies their substantial compensation.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
