Want to work as an Air Canada cabin crew member? Here’s what it takes – requirements, salary, training, and insider tips to help you land the job.
Quick summary
To become an Air Canada cabin crew member, you must be at least 18, hold a Canadian passport, and complete the airline’s 8-week flight attendant training in Montreal or Toronto. The salary ranges from $46,000 to $63,000 per year, including base pay, allowances, and bonuses, with added perks like free layover hotels and discounted flights. Applications are open to fluent English speakers (French preferred), and positions are based in Toronto or Vancouver – apply through the Air Canada careers page.
Who can apply? Air Canada cabin crew requirements
To work as an Air Canada flight attendant, you must meet these requirements:
Age & citizenship
- At least 18 years old
- Hold a valid Canadian passport
Language skills
- Must speak fluent English
- French speakers preferred (bilingual candidates have a higher chance)
Customer service & personality
- Friendly, patient, and empathetic with passengers
- Comfortable handling difficult situations & complaints
- Strong public speaking skills and confidence
Physical & medical requirements
- Meet Air Canada’s medical standards (vision, hearing, fitness)
- Pass drug & alcohol testing
- Able to work long shifts and irregular hours
Appearance & grooming
- Maintain impeccable grooming standards
- Wear the Air Canada uniform with pride
Tip: Candidates with previous customer service experience (hospitality, retail, or tourism) have an edge in the hiring process.
Air Canada flight attendant training: What to expect
Before you start flying, Air Canada requires you to complete an 8-week full-time training program in Montreal or Toronto.
Training includes:
- Emergency procedures & first aid
- Customer service & conflict resolution
- Grooming & uniform regulations
- Safety drills (evacuations, fire, and water landings)
Training is unpaid, but you may receive an allowance. You must pass all exams and assessments to officially become a cabin crew member.
Air Canada cabin crew salary: How much can you earn?
Estimated annual pay: $46,000 – $63,000
- Base salary starts at around $59,000 per year
- Layover allowances range from $2,000 – $5,000 per year
- Bonuses and commissions can add another $3,000 – $10,000 annually
- Overtime pay depends on flight hours and schedules
Senior flight attendants earn more, and international flights offer higher per diem allowances. Your final salary depends on your experience, routes, and seniority level.
Benefits of working for Air Canada as a cabin crew
- Health & dental insurance
- Retirement plans (varies by employee group)
- Higher pay based on performance
- Travel perks: Discounted flights for you and your immediate family
- Hotel & vacation discounts
Tip: Air Canada provides free hotel accommodation for layovers, but crew members must arrange their own housing at their assigned base.
Air Canada cabin crew uniform & grooming standards
In 2017, Air Canada introduced new uniforms designed by Canadian designer Christopher Bates.
Women’s uniform:
- Black high heels (mandatory)
- Options: Skirt, pants, or dress
- White blouse, jacket, red handbag
- Red & black scarf with Air Canada logo
Men’s uniform:
- Black shoes, trousers, white shirt
- Waistcoat, jacket
- Red & black tie with Air Canada logo
Grooming rules:
- Hair must be neatly styled
- Makeup & nails must meet company standards
- No visible tattoos when in uniform
Life as an Air Canada cabin crew member
Want a sneak peek into a typical day as an Air Canada flight attendant? Watch this behind-the-scenes video to see what the job is really like:
Air Canada cabin crew hiring process
- Visit the Air Canada Careers Page
- Search for cabin crew job openings
- Submit your resume & cover letter
- Pass interviews & assessments
- Complete Air Canada’s 8-week training
Want to increase your chances? Join our cabin crew forum to get tips from experienced Air Canada crew members!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the height requirements for Air Canada cabin crew?
Air Canada doesn’t specify a height requirement, but you must be able to reach the overhead bins without assistance.
Does Air Canada provide accommodation for flight attendants?
No, Air Canada does not provide housing, but layover hotel stays are fully covered. Cabin crew must arrange their own accommodation at their base.
How long is Air Canada’s flight attendant training?
The training program lasts 8 weeks and takes place in Montreal or Toronto. You must pass all exams to officially qualify.
Can foreigners apply for Air Canada cabin crew jobs?
No, only Canadian citizens or permanent residents are eligible to apply.
How much do Air Canada flight attendants get paid?
Cabin crew earn between $46,000 and $63,000 per year, including base salary, allowances, and bonuses.
Where are Air Canada cabin crew based?
Flight attendants are based in Toronto or Vancouver and must be willing to relocate.
Does Air Canada allow tattoos for cabin crew?
Tattoos must not be visible when wearing the uniform. Covering them with makeup or bandages is not allowed.
How can I apply to be an Air Canada flight attendant?
Submit your application through the Air Canada careers page and complete the hiring process, which includes interviews, background checks, and training.