How Much Do American Airline Flight Attendants Make?

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American airline flight attendants are the friendly faces that greet you as you board your flight and ensure that your travel experience is comfortable and safe. But have you ever wondered how much these dedicated professionals earn for their hard work? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of flight attendant salaries and explore the factors that can impact their earnings. Whether you’re considering a career in the skies or just curious about the pay scale, read on to learn more about how much American airline flight attendants make.

How Much Do American Airline Flight Attendants Make?

How Much Do American Airline Flight Attendants Make?

If you are considering a career as a flight attendant in the United States, one important factor to consider is salary. Flight attendants play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers during flights. In this article, we will explore the salary range of American airline flight attendants and the factors that affect their pay.

Salary Range for American Airline Flight Attendants

The salary of American airline flight attendants varies depending on the airline, years of experience, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for flight attendants in the United States is $56,640 as of May 2020.

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The lowest 10 percent of flight attendants earn less than $29,700 annually, while the highest 10 percent earn more than $80,870. Factors such as the airline’s size, the type of aircraft flown, and the length of flights can also impact a flight attendant’s pay.

Factors Affecting Flight Attendant Pay

The following factors can impact a flight attendant’s salary:

  1. Type of Airline: Some airlines pay their flight attendants higher than others. For instance, major airlines like Delta and American Airlines tend to offer more competitive pay and benefits compared to regional airlines.
  2. Years of Experience: Flight attendants with more years of experience typically earn higher salaries. Most airlines offer pay increases based on seniority, which means that the longer a flight attendant has been with the company, the higher their pay.
  3. Location: Flight attendants based in major cities may earn more than those based in smaller cities. This is because the cost of living in major cities tends to be higher.
  4. Type of Aircraft: The type of aircraft flown can also impact a flight attendant’s pay. Some aircraft require flight attendants to possess additional certifications or training, which can result in higher pay.
  5. Length of Flights: Flight attendants working on longer flights may earn more than those working on shorter flights. This is because longer flights typically require more work and may involve layovers.

Benefits of Being an American Airline Flight Attendant

In addition to salary, flight attendants typically receive a range of benefits, including:

  • Health Insurance: Most airlines offer health insurance plans to their flight attendants.
  • Retirement Benefits: Flight attendants typically receive retirement benefits, such as 401(k) plans or pensions.
  • Travel Perks: Flight attendants may receive free or discounted flights for themselves and their families.
  • Flexible Schedules: Many flight attendants enjoy flexible schedules, which can allow them to pursue other interests or spend time with family and friends.
  • Job Security: The demand for flight attendants is expected to grow in the coming years, which means that job security is high for those in the industry.

Flight Attendant Salary Benefits vs. Other Jobs

Compared to other jobs in the travel industry, flight attendants typically earn higher salaries and enjoy more benefits. For instance, hotel and restaurant workers typically earn lower salaries and may not have access to benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans.

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Conclusion

American airline flight attendants play a critical role in ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers during flights. While the salary of flight attendants varies depending on several factors, the median annual salary is $56,640. Flight attendants also enjoy a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, travel perks, flexible schedules, and job security. Overall, being a flight attendant can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary of American Airline flight attendants?

According to Glassdoor, the average salary for American Airline flight attendants is around $50,500 per year. However, this can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, base location, and the specific airline.

It is important to note that flight attendants also receive additional benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and discounted travel which can add to their overall compensation.

Do American Airline flight attendants receive any bonuses or incentives?

Yes, American Airline flight attendants are eligible for performance bonuses and incentives such as profit-sharing and stock options. These bonuses can vary depending on the airline’s financial performance and the individual’s job performance.

In addition, flight attendants can also receive compensation for working on holidays and for working on flights with premium cabins such as first class or business class.

What is the starting salary for American Airline flight attendants?

The starting salary for American Airline flight attendants is typically around $25,000 to $30,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on the airline’s contract with the flight attendant union and the specific base location.

Flight attendants who have more experience or who work on international flights may receive higher starting salaries.

Are there opportunities for career advancement for American Airline flight attendants?

Yes, American Airline flight attendants can advance their careers by becoming a lead flight attendant or a base manager. Lead flight attendants are responsible for overseeing the work of other flight attendants on a specific flight, while base managers are responsible for managing the operations of a specific base location.

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In addition, some flight attendants may also choose to become trainers or recruiters for their airline. These positions typically come with higher salaries and additional benefits.

What is the job outlook for American Airline flight attendants?

The job outlook for American Airline flight attendants is positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for flight attendants is expected to grow by 17% from 2019 to 2029. This growth is due to an increase in air travel and the need for more flight attendants to ensure passenger safety and comfort.

However, competition for flight attendant positions can be high, so it is important for candidates to have excellent customer service skills, language proficiency, and a willingness to work irregular hours.

HOW MUCH MONEY DO FLIGHT ATTENDANTS ACTUALLY MAKE? // Flight Attendant pay explained


In conclusion, the salary of American airline flight attendants is dependent on various factors such as the airline company, years of experience, and the location of the base. Despite the challenges that come with the job, it is still a lucrative career path for those who love to travel and work in a dynamic environment.

If you are considering becoming a flight attendant, there are many opportunities available to start your career. Research the different airlines and their requirements to find the best fit for you. With dedication and hard work, you can climb the ladder and earn a higher salary as you gain more experience.

Overall, being a flight attendant is not just a job, but a lifestyle. You get to travel the world, meet new people, and make lifelong memories while earning a decent income. It is a challenging yet rewarding career that can provide you with personal and professional growth. So, if you have a passion for flying and customer service, being a flight attendant might just be the perfect career for you.

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