Introduction to Airlines With The Best Salaries For Cabin Crew

Flight attendants play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers on board. Beyond their dedication to service, many individuals aspire to work for airlines that offer competitive salaries and attractive benefits. In this article, we delve into the world of aviation to explore the top 10 airlines with the the best salaries for cabin crew.

Alaska Airlines: Rewards and Bonuses Await

Alaska Airlines takes the top spot on our list, offering flight attendants an average annual salary of $53,000. This airline prides itself on excellent employee programs, including bonuses, commissions, and profit-sharing, which contribute an additional $3,400 annually to their earnings.

United Airlines: A Lucrative Career Path

United Flight Attendants
United Airlines

United Airlines boasts flight attendants with an average annual salary of $44,219. With exceptional promotion opportunities and a passion for their profession, experienced flight attendants at United Airlines can earn around $100,000 annually. Moreover, the airline offers bonus programs, commissions, and profit-sharing, averaging $5,200 per year.

American Airlines: Competitive Salaries and Perks

American Airlines Flight Attendants
American Airlines

Flight attendants at American Airlines earn an average salary of $43,460 per year. With extensive experience, the top 10% of flight attendants can expect an impressive average income of $86,000 annually. American Airlines also provides additional benefits such as bonuses, commissions, and profit-sharing, amounting to an average of $2,825 per year.

JetBlue Airways: Opportunities for Growth

jetBlue Flight Attendant smiling in the cabin
JetBlue

JetBlue Airways offers flight attendants a starting salary ranging from $25,000 to $35,000 per year. More senior flight attendants can earn upwards of $100,000 annually. In addition to flight hours, this salary includes various perks like international departures, language skills, and recognition.

Delta Airlines: Seniority and Increased Earnings

Delta Airlines Cabin Crew
Delta Air Lines

Delta Airlines provides flight attendants with an average salary of $40,236 per year. As flight attendants gain seniority, the rate of pay per hour increases significantly. Delta’s senior flight attendants can earn over $118,000 annually, thanks to additional compensation for per diem, international flights, and other benefits.

Hawaiian Airlines: Tropical Skies and Competitive Pay

Hawaiian Airlines Flight Attendant
Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines offers flight attendants an average salary of $39,000 per year. Seasoned flight attendants (top 10%) can expect to earn an average income of $88,000 annually. The airline also provides bonuses, commissions, and profit-sharing, which contribute an average of $2,500 per year to their pay.

Emirates Airlines: Tax-Free Earnings and Perks

Emirates Cabin Crew
Emirates

Emirates Airlines rewards its flight attendants with a salary range of $36,000 to $53,000 annually. Alongside tax-free earnings, flight hours, and base salaries, Emirates provides free accommodation with housing bills included as part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) tax-free system.

Allegiant Air: Balancing Salary and Quality of Life

Allegiant Cabin Crew
Allegiant

Flight attendants at Allegiant Air earn an average salary of $32,000 per year. The most experienced (top 10%) can expect an average salary of $71,000 annually. Allegiant Air offers bonus programs, commissions, and profit-sharing, providing an additional average payment of $2,825 per year.

Qatar Airways: Tax-Free Compensation and Free Housing

Qatar Airways Cabin Crew
Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways sets the starting salary for flight attendants between $23,000 and $42,800 per year. This tax-free compensation includes flight hours, layovers, and the provision of free housing for all flight attendants. As experience grows, the salary rate increases significantly.

Etihad Airways: Experience Pays Off

Etihad Airways Launches Global Recruitment Drive for Cabin Crew
Etihad Airways

Flight attendants at Etihad Airways receive a salary ranging from $25,000 to $32,000 per year. Similar to other airlines, their tax-free income includes basic payments, flight time, and layover allowances. As flight attendants gain experience, their earning potential increases considerably. Etihad Airways also offers free accommodations to all crew members.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right airline is crucial for a successful career as a flight attendant. While each airline offers its unique advantages, the top 10 airlines highlighted in this article provide some of the highest salaries and additional benefits in the industry. Whether it’s Alaskan Airlines with its exceptional employee programs or Emirates Airlines offering tax-free earnings and free accommodation, aspiring flight attendants have a range of options to consider. Remember, building a reputation through seniority is key, so choose wisely and embark on a rewarding journey in the aviation industry.