The difference between cabin crew and air hostess is mostly in the wording, not the role. Cabin crew is the modern, professional term used in airline job ads, while air hostess is an older, more traditional title. But the job itself—serving passengers, ensuring safety, and handling in-flight procedures—is exactly the same.
TL;DR:
- Cabin crew is the modern, gender-neutral term used by airlines in job ads and interviews.
- Air hostess is an older, gender-specific title mostly used informally or in certain regions.
- The job responsibilities are the same—safety, service, and in-flight support.
- Airlines prefer “cabin crew” or “flight attendant” for professional use.
- If you’re applying for a job, always use “cabin crew” on your CV or LinkedIn.
Understanding the Real Difference Between Cabin Crew and Air Hostess
While many people use these titles interchangeably, the difference between cabin crew and air hostess is mostly about language, not duties. Cabin crew is the modern, inclusive term used in job ads, interviews, and airline training. Air hostess is more traditional and still heard in places like India or among older generations, but it’s no longer used officially by most airlines.
Why Do Airlines Use the Term Cabin Crew Today?
Cabin crew is the official job title you’ll find on almost every airline career page. It’s gender-neutral, professional, and used for both male and female flight attendants. Most airlines stopped using terms like “air hostess” or “stewardess” years ago.
If you check airline websites like British Airways, Emirates, or Ryanair, they all say “Cabin Crew Careers” or “Join Our Cabin Crew Team.” That’s what recruiters expect to see on your CV, cover letter, and LinkedIn. Even if you’re used to saying “air hostess,” using the updated term makes you sound more informed and job-ready.
What Does Air Hostess Mean?
Air hostess is an older title that refers to female cabin crew. It was common in the 1950s and 60s, when airlines promoted the job as glamorous and mostly hired women. Some people still use the term out of habit, especially in countries like India and Pakistan. But airlines don’t use it anymore in official documents or training.
Cabin Crew vs Air Hostess: Does the Name Actually Matter?
The job is the same. You go through the same training, wear the same uniform, and do the same tasks in the air. The only real difference is the name—and how people react to it.
If you walk into an interview and say you want to be an “air hostess,” some recruiters might smile and move on. Others might think you haven’t done much research. It’s a small detail, but it can show how updated (or not) you are with the industry.
In some countries, like India or Pakistan, people still use “air hostess” a lot—especially in schools and online searches. But even in those places, airlines write “cabin crew” in job ads. It’s best to follow their lead.
What About Flight Attendant and Stewardess?
Flight attendant is another modern, gender-neutral term. In the U.S. and Canada, it’s the most common name for the role. Stewardess and steward are old-fashioned words that have mostly disappeared for the same reason as air hostess—they’re gender-specific and no longer used by most airlines.
Should You Say Cabin Crew, Flight Attendant, or Air Hostess on Your CV?
Use cabin crew or flight attendant. Don’t overthink it. They’re both correct and accepted by recruiters around the world.
If you’re applying to airlines in the Middle East, Asia, or Europe, “cabin crew” is the safer bet. If you’re targeting North American airlines, “flight attendant” is more common. Just match the wording you see in the job ad.
Avoid writing “air hostess” in your CV or LinkedIn profile. Even if the term is still used in conversation, it doesn’t look professional on paper. Some recruiters might even think you’re applying for the wrong kind of job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any difference between cabin crew and air hostess?
No, the job is the same. Cabin crew is the modern term, while air hostess is older and gender-specific.
Which term do airlines prefer—cabin crew or air hostess?
Airlines prefer “cabin crew” because it’s gender-neutral and professional. It’s the standard in job ads and training materials.
Can I still use the term air hostess in my resume?
It’s better to avoid it. Use “cabin crew” or “flight attendant” to match what airlines are actually looking for.
Is flight attendant the same as cabin crew?
Yes. Flight attendant is mostly used in North America, but it means the same thing as cabin crew.
Why is air hostess still used in some countries?
Some regions, like India or Pakistan, still use the term out of habit or tradition, but airlines themselves mostly say “cabin crew.”