Are cabin crew and flight attendants the same, or is there a real difference? Many people use these terms interchangeably, but airlines, recruiters, and job descriptions often separate them. The main difference between cabin crew and flight attendants comes down to terminology, job classification, and how airlines define their roles. In some regions, people also use “air hostess,” but that term is mostly outdated.
Quick summary
Cabin crew and flight attendants perform the same job, but airlines use different terminology. The main difference is that “cabin crew” refers to the entire onboard team, while “flight attendant” is the official job title, and “air hostess” is an outdated term still used in some regions. If you’re applying for a job, use “flight attendant” or “cabin crew,” as “air hostess” is no longer widely recognised by most airlines.
Are Cabin Crew and Flight Attendants the Same?
Yes and no. Cabin crew is the broadest term, covering everyone working inside the aircraft cabin, including flight attendants, senior crew, and pursers. Flight attendant is the official job title recognized by airlines worldwide and used in contracts, job ads, and training programs. Air hostess is an outdated term that still appears in some parts of the world, mainly in South Asia, but most airlines have phased it out in favour of gender-neutral language.
If you’re looking for a job, flight attendant or cabin crew is the correct term. Air hostess might still pop up in some older job listings, but international airlines rarely use it anymore.
Is “Air Hostess” Still Used by Airlines?
In countries like India and Pakistan, “air hostess” is still common in job ads and everyday language. In most Western countries, it has disappeared, replaced by flight attendant or simply cabin crew. Airlines have moved away from gendered job titles, and any airline still advertising for “air hostesses” is probably behind the times in other ways too.
Some job seekers still search for air hostess positions, which is why the term hasn’t completely vanished. But if you’re applying for a cabin crew role, using “flight attendant” will make you sound more professional.
Do Cabin Crew and Flight Attendants Have Different Responsibilities?
No. Regardless of the title, the job is the same. Flight attendants and cabin crew are responsible for passenger safety, inflight service, emergency response, and ensuring a smooth journey. Some airlines have different ranks within the cabin crew team, such as pursers or senior crew members, but the core duties don’t change.
The only real difference is branding. Airlines choose the wording they think fits their company image, but it’s all the same job. Whether your uniform says cabin crew, flight attendant, or even stewardess (another outdated term), your responsibilities don’t change.
Which Term Should You Use?
If you’re applying for a job, use flight attendant or cabin crew. These are the terms recruiters and hiring managers recognise. Air hostess might still be understood in some regions, but it’s outdated, and using it in a job application could make you seem out of touch with modern industry standards.
At the end of the day, passengers might call you cabin crew, flight attendant, or even stewardess. The job itself stays the same. What matters is knowing which term to use in a professional setting. If an airline still insists on calling its crew “air hostesses,” you might want to ask yourself what else they haven’t updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between cabin crew and flight attendant?
Cabin crew refers to the entire team working inside the aircraft, while flight attendant is the official job title used by airlines. The terms mean the same thing, but “flight attendant” is more widely recognised in the industry.
Is cabin crew and air hostess the same?
No. Air hostess is an older, gender-specific term that some airlines in South Asia still use. Most international airlines now use “flight attendant” instead, as it applies to both men and women.
What is the difference between air hostess and flight attendant?
The job itself is identical, but the terminology has changed. “Air hostess” was commonly used in the past, but modern airlines prefer “flight attendant” because it’s gender-neutral and aligns with global aviation standards.
Why do some airlines still say “air hostess” instead of “flight attendant”?
Some airlines, especially in India and Pakistan, still use “air hostess” because it’s familiar to the local job market. However, major airlines worldwide have moved away from it in favour of “flight attendant.” If an airline still advertises for “air hostesses,” they probably haven’t updated their hiring practices in a long time.
Cabin crew vs flight attendant—which term should I use on my resume?
Use “flight attendant” for job applications, as this is the most recognised term by airlines and recruiters. “Cabin crew” is also acceptable, but “air hostess” is outdated and could make you seem unfamiliar with industry standards.