Cabin crew salaries in the UK vary by airline, experience, and extra perks like bonuses and commission. Some airlines offer higher base pay, while others make up for it with added earnings. If you’re looking for the highest cabin crew salary UK airlines offer, here’s what you need to know.
Quick Summary
UK cabin crew salaries vary by airline, with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offering some of the highest pay, reaching £28,000–£30,000+ with bonuses. Jet2 and TUI provide competitive salaries, while EasyJet and Ryanair start lower but offer commission and allowances that can add up to £5,000–£10,000 per year. If you’re looking for the highest cabin crew salary UK airlines offer, long-haul routes and senior positions typically pay the most.
How Much Do Flight Attendants Make in the UK?
The average UK flight attendant earns £18,516 per year, but that’s just a starting point. Airline, experience, and bonuses make a big difference.
British Airways crew start at £18,000, but with bonuses, commission, and long-haul allowances, total pay can hit £28,000+. Virgin Atlantic offers similar pay, with experienced crew reaching £30,000+. Jet2 and TUI start around £18,500, rising with experience. EasyJet and Ryanair begin lower, around £14,000–£16,000, but offer commission and tax-free allowances that can push earnings higher.
Monthly pay? Expect anywhere from £1,500–£2,500, depending on the airline and extras like commission and layover pay.
Which Airlines Pay the Most?
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic lead in base salary and perks. Jet2 and TUI aren’t far behind, with seasonal bonuses and steady pay progression. Ryanair and EasyJet start lower but make up for it with in-flight sales commission, adding up to £5,000–£10,000 a year.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) also hires flight attendants, with salaries ranging from £22,000 to £24,000, though that’s a different kind of career.
Where You’re Based Matters
London-based cabin crew tend to earn more, especially those on long-haul routes. Regional bases—like Birmingham, Manchester, and Edinburgh—pay slightly less, but the cost of living is lower.
How Does UK Cabin Crew Pay Compare to Other Countries?
UK salaries are lower than Emirates and Qatar Airways, where crew earn £30,000–£40,000 tax-free. In the US, flight attendants at major airlines can hit £35,000+, but schedules are often tougher. UK airlines might not pay as much, but the trade-off is better work-life stability.
Is Salary Everything?
If you’re chasing the highest salary, BA or Virgin Atlantic are solid bets. But money isn’t everything—Jet2 has a reputation for treating its crew well, while EasyJet and Ryanair offer rapid promotions. The best airline depends on whether you value salary, lifestyle, or career growth.
Thinking of applying? Check out the latest UK cabin crew job openings and see where you could land.
