Overview

Being a flight attendant (formerly known as a “steward” or “stewardess”) involves more than just serving drinks. While it’s true that flight attendants tend to the comfort of their passengers, there’s much more to this career.

Flight attendants assist passengers on commercial and business airlines. These professionals have a broad range of duties that begin before the flight takes off and continue until each passenger is safely on the ground at their destination. Understanding the scope of a flight attendant’s career can help you determine whether this job is the right fit for your lifestyle. In this article, we explore how to become a flight attendant.

A flight attendant’s primary job is to keep airline passengers and crew safe. They respond to any emergencies that occur on the aircraft and make sure everyone follows Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. 

Curious about this high-flying career? Let’s take a closer look at how to become a flight attendant and the training and certifications that flight attendants are required to get.

Flight attendants help ensure the safety and comfort of passengers on airline flights. Their job goes beyond serving food and drinks, and several of their responsibilities are mandated by federal law. Flight attendants instruct passengers on safety procedures, like how and when to use the plane’s seat belts, and how to use oxygen masks and exit the plane in an emergency. Before each flight, attendants make sure all necessary equipment and supplies are available on board. Flight attendants may also perform first aid, handle security issues, and deal with any other problem that occurs during a flight.

Being a flight attendant requires flexibility, as they are expected to work on short notice, traveling all over the country and the world. Flight attendants spend a large amount of time on their feet helping passengers with luggage and pushing food and beverage carts, so this can be a physically demanding job as well.

What does a flight attendant do?

Flight attendants are responsible for the safety and comfort of airline passengers. They can work on either commercial or business aircraft. Before the flight, attendants receive information on the expected weather, travel time and passengers’ needs. These attendants are the primary point of contact for passengers. They will answer questions, ease concerns and communicate with the pilot as needed. Other flight attendant responsibilities include:

• Assisting passengers with boarding
• Helping passengers find their seats and stow their luggage
• Monitoring passengers for suspicious behavior
• Assisting those with small children or special health requirements
• Educating passengers on the appropriate safety procedures
• Securing the cabin for take-off and landing
• Providing passengers with snacks, drinks, pillows, headphones and other comforts during the flight
• Keeping passengers calm during turbulence or delays
• Assisting passengers in emergency situations
• Helping passengers safely deplane after landing

 

Become a Good Hiring Candidate for Airlines

The first step in becoming a flight attendant is to apply for a position with an airline. You’ll need to meet the airline’s requirements for education and experience. Airlines require job applicants to have at least a high-school or equivalency (GED) diploma. However, many will only hire candidates who have taken college classes or who have an associate or bachelor’s degree. Degrees that will prepare you especially well include hospitality, communication, tourism, and public relations. 

Employers often prefer job candidates who have work experience in a related field. If you want to become a flight attendant, consider gaining relevant experience in customer service by working in a hotel, resort, or restaurant.

Flight attendants must also meet specific physical requirements. Airlines typically have minimum and maximum heights. They also require attendants to be able to sit in a jumpseat and complete a range of physical tasks, like pushing, pulling, bending, and lifting with reasonable accommodation.

You will also need to pass a background check and a pre-employment drug screening. Visible tattoos are typically not allowed unless they can be concealed with makeup.

Be prepared to complete multiple interviews. For example, the airline may start with a phone screening or group interview before proceeding to a one-on-one interview. Dress professionally, and be prepared to discuss why you would be an excellent choice to represent the airline.

What you learn during your training will prepare you for the technical aspects of your job as a flight attendant, but your soft skills are just as important. You will need excellent communication skills, because you will spend a lot of time interacting with passengers and other members of your flight crew.

Stressful situations call for strong customer service and problem-solving skills. Good listening skills will allow you to understand and meet customers’ needs.

 

Complete the Airline-Provided Flight Attendant Training Program

Once an airline hires you, the company will provide formal training at its flight training center. During the three to six weeks you will spend there, expect to receive classroom instruction on flight regulations, job duties, and company operations.

Airlines will typically arrange for lodging and transportation to the training center, but you may be responsible for meals. Training may be paid or unpaid, depending on the airline.

Along with the other new hires, you will learn how to handle emergencies, including procedures for evacuating an airplane and operating emergency equipment such as evacuation slides, oxygen masks, and flotation devices. As you near the end of your classroom instruction, you will take practice flights, and you will be evaluated on your skills.

Get a Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency

After you finish the employer-sponsored training, the director of operations at the airline will apply for your Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency from the FAA.

This is part of the process for flight attendants as defined by the Vision 100-Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act, which went into effect in December 2004. However, this certificate is only issued to those flight attendants who meet the Act’s definition:

The Act defines a flight attendant as an individual who works in the cabin of an aircraft that has 20 or more seats and is used by a part 121 or part 135 air carrier to provide air transportation.

All regional and major airlines in the U.S. are part 121 air carriers, so the majority of flight attendants will fit this definition.

After applying for the certificate, the FAA will confirm your record. Then, you will be eligible to work on a flight.

Flight attendants must receive annual training to keep their certifications up to date.

 

Start Your Career as a Flight Attendant

With your training complete and your certificate in hand, you may think you’ll soon be jetting all over the world and earning a living at the same time.

Not so fast. While there will be some opportunities to work, you won’t have a regular schedule yet, and it will be a while before you get to fly some of the more desirable routes. How long depends on the airline you’re working for and which hub you’re working out of, but it could be anywhere from a few months to a few years.

New flight attendants typically spend at least one year on reserve status, though certain airlines or cities may require flight attendants to spend up to five years on reserve status, or “on call.” You’ll have to keep your overnight bag packed, since you will have to report to work at a moment’s notice to replace absent crew members or cover extra flights.

You’re paid for the time that you’re on reserve, and the airline typically assigns you specific days to be on call. You won’t be on call every minute.

Eventually, you will be able to bid on monthly assignments, but that comes with seniority.

Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth outlook for flight attendants over the next decade relative to other occupations and industries is higher than the average for all occupations, driven by new, larger aircraft that can carry more passengers and require more flight attendants.

Employment in this occupation is expected to grow by about 10% over the next 10 years, which is faster than the average growth projected for all occupations between 2016 and 2026. Growth for other air transportation workers is projected to be 7% over the next 10 years.

These growth rates compare to the projected 7% growth for all occupations. Competition is strong because of the number of candidates available as compared to the number of job opportunities. A college degree can increase your prospects, and jobs will continue to be available due to the need to replace flight attendants leaving the occupation.

Since many flight attendants remain in their jobs for longer than they did in the past, competition for those new to the field is fierce. Your advancement from reserve status to having the ability to choose assignments will be slow.

Work Environment Of A Flight Attendant

Flight attendants make sure all overhead luggage is properly stored.

Flight attendants held about 102,500 jobs in 2020. The largest employers of flight attendants were as follows:

Scheduled air transportation	95%
Non Scheduled air transportation	2

Flight attendants work primarily in the cabin of passenger aircraft. Dealing directly with passengers and standing for long periods can be stressful and tiring. Occasionally, flights encounter air turbulence, which can make providing service more difficult and causes anxiety in some passengers. Handling emergencies and unruly customers also can be difficult and cause stress.

Flight attendants spend many nights away from home and often sleep in hotels or apartments shared by a group of flight attendants.

Injuries and Illnesses

Flight attendants have one of the highest rates of injuries and illnesses of all occupations. To avoid injuries, these workers must follow safety procedures. For example, they must ensure that overhead compartments are closed, especially during turbulence, so that carry-on items don’t fall and present a risk to all in the cabin. Attendants also ensure that carts are properly stowed and latched during aircraft emergencies to avoid injuries to passengers and themselves.

Work Schedules

Flight attendants usually have variable schedules. They often work nights, weekends, and holidays because airlines operate every day and have overnight flights. In most cases, a contract between the airline and the flight attendant union determines the total daily and monthly workable hours. A typical on-duty shift is about 12 to 14 hours per day. However, duty time can be increased for international flights. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that flight attendants receive at least 9 consecutive hours of rest following any duty period before starting their next duty period.

Attendants usually fly 75 to 100 hours a month and generally spend another 50 hours a month on the ground, preparing flights, writing reports, and waiting for aircraft to arrive. They can spend several nights a week away from home. During this time, employers typically arrange hotel accommodations and a meal allowance. Some flight attendants work part time. 

An attendant’s assignments of home base and route are based on seniority. New flight attendants must be flexible with their schedule and location. Almost all flight attendants start out working on call, also known as reserve status. Flight attendants on reserve usually live near their home airport, because they may have to report to work on short notice.

As they earn more seniority, attendants may have more control over their schedules. For example, some senior flight attendants may choose to live outside their home base and commute to work. Others may choose to work only on regional flights. On small corporate airlines, flight attendants may work on an as-needed basis.

Minimum qualifications

General

• Must be at least 20 years of age at the time of application.
• Must have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986.
• Must possess a valid, unexpired passport.
• Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines.
• Must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the start date to comply with Executive Order 14042, which requires employees of federal contractors to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Education

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent education required.
• College coursework or a degree would be an asset.

Physical abilities

• Weight must be of such proportion to height that a neat appearance is maintained and the physical ability to perform all job functions is not hindered.
• The ability to, while facing forward, walk and fit comfortably down the aircraft aisle, fit quickly through the overwing window exit, and fit into a jumpseat harness without modification, including closure without a seatbelt extension.
• Must be able to lift items up to 50 pounds from floor to shoulder level as required.

Myth busters

There are many common myths and misconceptions about the Flight Attendant role.

My schedule will be flexible.

Fact: Schedules and bidding are dependent on relative seniority.

​​​​​​​Many applicants come to the interview with unrealistic expectations regarding their schedule. This is usually due to the stories heard from friends or family members who are in the airline industry. While what you may be hearing is true, it is generally not attainable for several years. New Flight Attendants must put in time and hard work to get to the point where they are able to adjust their schedule to meet their needs. Schedules can and will change, especially due to Irregular Operations (IROPS).

​​​​​​​You will get to see the world.

Fact: New Flight Attendants need to work hard, put in time, and build up seniority long before they can expect to work the most desirable flights.

Being a Flight Attendant is exciting and never dull.

Fact: While Flight Attendants do have the luxury of traveling and enjoying different cultures, flying for long periods and constantly crossing time zones can be taxing on your body, but the adjustments will come with time. Southwest Flight Attendants do it all, from tidying up the aircraft to assisting Customers and handling medical emergencies onboard. If you love to be around people and providing friendly Customer Service is your passion, this could be the position for you. We are counting on our future Flight Attendants to preserve our 50-year history and secure our future by serving our Customers with a Warrior Spirit, Servant’s Heart and Fun-LUVing Attitude. 

Commuting will be simple.

Fact: We believe we have a very generous commuter policy, arguably the best in the industry! Flight Attendants are responsible for getting to and from their domicile, and there is always space available. There is no guarantee on when a Flight Attendant will be able to hold their desired base of choice.

​​​​​​​I will make a lot of money right away.

Fact: Southwest has one of the very best and most lucrative contracts in the industry, but the beginning can be draining on a new Flight Attendant’s cash reserves. We recommend New Hire Flight Attendants being well prepared for the time they are in training, having enough cash reserved to pay all bills, as well as prepared to take time to rebuild their reserves after training. They will most likely need to pick up extra trips on their days off to supplement their income. They may be sharing a crash pad (an apartment or hotel where several Flight Attendants share the expenses) if they choose not to live in their base city and decide to commute.

What does a flight attendant earn?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median yearly salary for flight attendants in the United States was $37,740 in 2010. An entry-level flight attendant can expect to make between $16,000 and $25,000 per year, while experienced flight attendants may earn $50,000 or more.

Many flight attendants point to their opportunity for travel as a unique benefit of their career.

How to become a flight attendant

1. Complete your education.
2. Gain relevant work experience.
3. Prepare and submit your resume.
4. Pass your flight attendant interview.
5. Complete the airline’s training program.
6. Get your FAA Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency.

1. Complete your education

To become a flight attendant, you need a minimum of a high school diploma or GED. Though not required, a bachelor’s degree can increase your employability. The most relevant degrees are those in marketing, hospitality, tourism, public relations or communication.

2. Gain relevant work experience

Flight attendant jobs are highly coveted, and only the best candidates pass the initial interview. Relevant work experience will strengthen your resume. Many airlines require a minimum of two years of experience in hospitality, customer service or sales. Airlines look for work experience that proves you can spend long hours on your feet, work overtime, handle problem-solving and provide outstanding customer service.

3. Prepare and submit your resume

Prepare a strong resume that highlights your customer service skills. Emphasize any professional or volunteer experience that helped you hone your ability to work with challenging clients. Highlight positions in which you were on your feet for long hours or worked overtime to demonstrate that you’re physically capable of meeting the demands of a flight attendant.

Top airlines may only open resume submissions for a few hours. Have your resume ready to go so you can act quickly any time you hear about a job opportunity for flight attendants.

4. Pass your flight attendant interview

Prospective flight attendants must pass their interviews before they begin training. This includes a drug test and background check. Flight attendants must be tall enough to reach overhead bins and have proportional height and weight. Your vision must be correctable to 20/40 or better, and you should be in excellent health.

Many employers use video interviews to screen potential flight attendants. These may or may not be live. If you’re completing a video interview, consider your surroundings carefully and make sure the background is neat and quiet. Place the camera at eye level and put it in a stable position so you have a clear, steady shot. Conservative attire is best, as airlines prefer a professional image. Most have restrictions against facial piercings, visible tattoos and unnaturally colored hair.

5. Complete the airline’s training program

Airlines provide a three- to six-week training program for their flight attendants. You will typically attend training for eight hours a day throughout the duration of the program. This training prepares you to use airport codes, make PA announcements, perform routine job duties and handle in-flight emergencies. You will complete around four supervised test flights as part of the program. You must successfully pass your training to become a flight attendant. Most airlines require a minimum grade of 90%.

6. Get your FAA Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency

Once you’ve completed your training, your employer will apply for your Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency from the Federal Aviation Administration. You must get a separate certificate for every type of aircraft that you’re certified to work with. To maintain your certification, you must complete annual training.

Tips for Writing a Strong Flight Attendant Cover Letter

Individualize Your Cover Letter

Make sure to write a unique cover letter for each job you apply for. Every airline is different, and each one has different requirements and company culture. Your resume will stand out if you take the time to individualize each letter.

Emphasize Your Skills 

In the body of your letter, emphasize the skills you possess that make you a strong flight attendant. Use the list of flight attendant skills (see below) as well as the job listing, to get a sense of what skills you should highlight in your letter.

Use Examples to Make a Match

When stating in your cover letter that you have certain qualifications, include specific examples of times you have demonstrated those skills. For example, if the job posting requirement says, “The ideal candidate is professional, enthusiastic, positive, and committed to providing passengers with the highest level of customer service,” you can highlight your related experience:

My extensive experience in the customer service industry has taught me the value of providing positive, individualized service to all customers.

If you have never been a flight attendant, you can draw on other work, volunteer, or school experiences to show your skills. For example, you can demonstrate your customer service skills with an example from a job at a clothing store.

Proofread and Edit

Be sure to edit your cover letter for spelling and grammar errors thoroughly. Flight attendant jobs are very competitive, and even a small spelling error can hurt your chances of getting an interview.

Flight Attendant Cover Letter Example

This is an example of a flight attendant cover letter. Download the flight attendant cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) to use as a template for your own letter.

@ The Balance 2020

 Download the Word Template

Flight Attendant Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Linda Applicant

123 Business Rd.

Business City 54321

555-555-5555

[email protected]

August 6, 2020

Lydia Lee

Senior Flight Attendant

Acme Airlines

123 Business Rd.

Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Lee:

I am writing to submit my enthusiastic application for the flight attendant position for Air Atlantic, as advertised on AirJobs.com. I am confident that my dynamic customer service and teamwork skills will make me a strong member of your crew.

My extensive experience in the customer service industry has taught me the value of providing positive, individualized service to all customers. As a restaurant host, I made sure to promote each guest’s comfort and well-being. As an award-winning sales representative, I worked one-on-one with customers to ensure that all of their questions about products were answered and that each customer felt listened to. I would bring this positive energy and hospitality to my job as a flight attendant at Air Atlantic.

My experience and strength as a team player will also make me a strong crew member. As a host, I had to be in constant communication with the wait staff, the kitchen, and the management. My positivity and clear communication skills helped strengthen our team’s efficiency and sense of community. I know I would be an integral part of the dynamic crew at Air Atlantic.

I would love the opportunity to speak with you about how my skills and experience would make me an asset to your flight crew. I will call you in a week to discuss how I can contribute to Air Atlantic. Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Thank you for your consideration.

Lydia Applicant (signature hard copy letter)

Lydia Applicant

Sending an Email Cover Letter

If you’re sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title in the subject line of the email message:

Subject: Flight Attendant – Your Name

Include your contact information in your email signature (rather than at the beginning of the letter), and don’t list the employer’s contact information. Instead, start your email message with the salutation.

Follow Up if You Don’t Hear From the Employer

One way to stand out from the applicant pool is to follow up with the employer a week or two after sending your cover letter. However, do not do this if the job listing specifically asks you not to contact them.

Flight Attendant Skills

Below is a list of skills most employers look for in a flight attendant. Incorporate these skill words into your resume and cover letter. You can also emphasize these skills in your answers to interview questions.

Of course, required skills will vary based on the position for which you’re applying, so be sure to look closely at the job listing for a sense of the most important skills.

Flight Attendant Skills List 

A – D

• Active listening
• Adaptable
• Articulating clearly
• Assertiveness
• Assessing medical emergencies
• Attention to detail
• Attentive
• Calming agitated passengers
• Collaborating
• Communication  
• Complying with FAA regulations
• CPR
• Critical thinking
• Customer service
• Decision-making

E – M

• Energetic
• Establishing rapport with passengers
• Evaluating situations and requesting assistance as warranted
• First aid
• Flexible
• Fluency in a foreign language
• Friendly
• Handle in-flight emergencies
• Interacting effectively with people from different cultures
• Interpersonal skills
• Inventory skills
• Leadership skills 
• Market and sell products
• Multitasking

N – Z

• Neat and tidy appearance
• Noticing security threats
• Organizational skills
• Pass pre-employment screening
• Physical stamina
• Polite
• Problem-solving skills
• Public speaking
• Reading comprehension 
• Reassuring nervous passengers
• Reliable 
• Remaining poised under pressure
• Resolving complaints
• Resolving conflicts
• Selling meals, beverages, and headsets
• Sense of humor
• Serving food and drinks
• Standing for extended periods
• Strength to operate emergency exits and equipment
• Swimming and treading water
• Tact
• Teamwork
• Utilizing AEDs
• Working odd hours
• Writing reports regarding incidents

Sample Questions for Flight Attendant Interviews

Flight attendants can earn a good living doing something many people only dream about: traveling the world for work. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that this job will grow 10% between 2016 and 2026, faster than average for all occupations. It also boasts median annual earnings of over $50,000 per year – no college degree required.

But this job isn’t all glitz and glamor. In addition to providing customer service, comfort, and refreshments to passengers, flight attendants keep everyone on board safe. They help conduct pre-flight safety checks, demonstrate the use of seatbelts and other safety equipment, and keep passengers calm during an emergency. If things do go wrong in the air, they may even save lives, getting passengers medical attention or making certain that everyone evacuates the aircraft safely if necessary.

So, it’s not an easy job, but if you love to travel, have the ability to manage stressed-out travelers, and can keep cool under pressure, it might be the perfect job for you. To become a flight attendant, you’ll typically need a high school diploma, customer service experience, and the ability to pass a background check and pre-employment drug screening. Then, you’ll embark on three to six weeks of training and become certified by the FAA.

To get hired as a flight attendant, you’ll have to ace the job interview. Learn more about the types of interview questions a flight attendant might be asked, advice on how to prepare for an interview, and a list of specific interview questions.

Types of Flight Attendant Interview Questions

Flight attendant interviews may include a number of question types. Many will be common interview questions you might get at any job, such as questions about your employment history, your educational background, your skills and qualifications for the job, and your goals for the future.

You may also be asked questions about you personally, including questions about your personality and work style. These might also include questions about why you chose the career you did.

Some of your interview questions will also be behavioral. Behavioral interview questions ask you to explain how you dealt with past experiences on the job.

You will likely also be asked situational interview questions. These are similar to behavioral interview questions, in that they ask you about different work experiences. However, situational interview questions are about how you would handle a future situation related to your job as a flight attendant.

Finally, you might be asked questions about the particular airline for which you are interviewing.

 

Tips for Preparing for a Flight Attendant Interview

To prepare for your interview, make sure you know the requirements of the job. Look back at your resume and list any experiences you have had that demonstrate your ability to meet those requirements. This will especially help with behavioral and situational interview questions.

Before the interview, do some research on the company you are interviewing with. Make sure you have a sense of their mission, the population they work with, and the company culture.

Potential personal interview questions include “What made you want to be a flight attendant?” and “Do you consider yourself a good team player?”

Behavioral interview questions include the following:

• Give me an example of a time when you dealt with a customer who made an unrealistic or unreasonable demand.
• Tell me about a time that you dealt with an angry customer or client. What would you have done differently?
• Tell me about the last time you lost your patience at work.
• Describe a conflict you had with a coworker. How did you resolve the conflict?
• Describe a stressful situation in which you had to use your verbal communication skills to resolve the issue.

Situational Interview Questions

• Imagine you see a passenger being deliberately rude to another flight attendant. How would you deal with this situation?
• Imagine you saw two passengers arguing over their seats. How would you handle this?
• How would you deal with a passenger who refused to follow the rules (keeping his seat belt buckled, etc.)?
• How would you handle a very anxious passenger who is afraid of flying?

Questions About the Organization and Other Questions

• Why do you want to work for our airline in particular?
• What do you think makes our airline different from others?
• Why are flight attendants essential on an aircraft?
• What do you believe makes excellent customer service?

•  
• Pros & Cons of Becoming a Flight Attendant 
• Becoming a flight attendant is appealing for numerous reasons, but what many newcomers don’t realize are the drawbacks that come with the position. For instance, even though flight attendants are able to travel often, many times that can interfere with celebrating holidays and special occasions. Another benefit of becoming a flight attendant is the fact that they’re subject to discounted flights at discounted rates. On the other hand, the path to becoming a flight attendant may be longer than applicants anticipated. Even though a college degree isn’t required for becoming a flight attendant, the application and training process can be highly selective, and plenty of applicants are regularly turned down.

Why Becoming a Flight Attendant is a Worthwhile Career Choice

The opportunity to travel while earning a livable salary is appealing to lots of people. Taking that into consideration, flight attendant’s salary and travel aren’t the only reasons why the role is appealing. The fact that becoming a flight attendant doesn’t take the investment of several years in college or tens of thousands of dollars in specialized training is even better. The popularity of the career field is steadily increasing, too. Anyone interested in making a shift in their career would benefit from exploring opportunities in becoming a flight attendant. 

Frequently Asked Questions about flight attendants

If you’re interested in becoming a flight attendant, there are many common questions that you might have on your mind. Some popular queries about work as a flight attendant are answered below.

Q 1.How long does it take to become a flight attendant?

The training program for flight attendants is usually three to six weeks. However, it may take months or even years to get into one of these programs. This is a highly competitive field, and open positions usually fill up fast.

Q 2. What qualifications do you need to become a flight attendant?

You can become a flight attendant with as little as a high school diploma. The most important qualities for a flight attendant are a courteous attitude, an efficient approach to problem-solving, attention to detail, stamina, professionalism and outstanding customer service.

Q 3. Can you become a flight attendant at 40? 50? 60?

There is no age limitation for becoming a flight attendant. In fact, airlines appreciate older applicants because they have an extensive proven work history with professional references and the maturity to handle stressful day-to-day flight operations.

Q 4. Can a man become a flight attendant?

You can absolutely become a flight attendant if you are male and the number of males that are entering the industry is actually increasing. As long as you can accomplish the day-to-day functions of being a flight attendant, then your sex, gender, race, sexual orientation, etc. does not matter to airlines.

Q 5. What’s a flight attendant’s schedule like?

Flight attendants often work erratic schedules, especially when they’re new to the job. Schedules are referred to as lines. Each month, flight attendants bid for a new line, and these are awarded based on seniority.

New flight attendants are often on reserve, which means they’re on call for any flights that need additional crew members and may have only hours to get to the airport and get on their plane.

Flight attendants on reserve usually have 10 days off a month, while those who are line holders can get 20 or more days off. The length of each trip varies from a quick round trip, where you return immediately, to a two-, three- or four-day trip where you’re out of town for an extended period. The average layover is 12 hours. Hotels are provided during layovers.

Q 6. What perks do flight attendants enjoy?

Flight attendants enjoy outstanding travel perks. Some airlines offer free standby flights to their employees as well as the employee’s spouse, children or other relatives. Those who can’t fly free typically enjoy steeply discounted airfare. Discounts on hotels, rental cars and cruises are often available as well.

Q 7. Do flight attendants make good money?

Due to the laws in the United States we cannot disclose average salaries. However, we are allowed to share that starting salaries range between $18-26 per hour depending on the airline, work history and other factors. Remember most flight attendant jobs come with free travel and other benefits.

Q 8. Do you need training to be a flight attendant?

A high school diploma or equivalent is required. All flight attendants are required to obtain a certificate of demonstrated proficiency, which requires specific flight attendant training.