Becoming a flight attendant is a dream career for many – offering the chance to travel, meet new people, and enjoy the flexibility of a non-traditional work schedule. But what if you want to be a flight attendant part-time? Can this career provide the flexibility needed to work fewer hours or balance other commitments?

While most flight attendants are employed full-time, part-time positions do exist in certain cases, and they come with specific challenges and benefits. This article explores whether you can work as a flight attendant part-time, what the job entails, and which airlines might offer these opportunities.

Part-time Flight attendant positions: Are they available?

Part-time positions for flight attendants are not as widely available as full-time roles, especially with larger, full-service airlines. However, some smaller or regional airlines, particularly in Europe and the U.S., have started offering part-time opportunities to suit various lifestyles.

  • Breeze Airways, a U.S.-based airline, is known for offering part-time flight attendant roles, where employees can work 8-12 days per month, amounting to approximately 40-60 hours of flying per month.
  • In Europe, some airlines, like SAS (Scandinavian Airlines), have advertised part-time roles in the past, especially for experienced crew members looking to reduce their hours.

These part-time schedules are typically designed to accommodate individuals with other jobs, family responsibilities, or those seeking a better work-life balance.

Job responsibilities: Part-time vs. full-time

The job responsibilities for part-time flight attendants are essentially the same as those for full-time employees. Whether you work part-time or full-time, the primary duties include:

  • Ensuring passenger safety by conducting safety briefings, checking equipment, and responding to emergencies.
  • Providing customer service, such as serving meals, handling passenger requests, and resolving in-flight issues.
  • Attending pre-flight briefings to discuss safety procedures, weather conditions, and passenger information.

The key difference lies in the number of hours worked. Part-time flight attendants might work fewer shifts or shorter flight schedules, but they are still required to complete the same level of training and meet the same safety and performance standards as their full-time counterparts.

How part-time flight attendants are scheduled

Scheduling flexibility is one of the biggest draws for individuals looking for part-time flight attendant roles. However, scheduling can vary widely depending on the airline and its operations. At some airlines, part-time flight attendants may be assigned a set number of flying days per month, while at others, they may have the flexibility to bid for shifts or drop flights based on seniority.

  • Seniority plays a major role: Airlines typically assign shifts based on seniority, meaning part-time flight attendants with more experience have more control over their schedules. They can choose desirable routes or fewer flying hours, making the job more adaptable to other commitments.
  • Shift flexibility: At some airlines, part-time flight attendants may work half-month shifts, or alternate between longer and shorter rotations. This can be ideal for individuals balancing studies, freelance work, or family life.

Flight attendants looking for part-time roles may need to have significant experience in the industry or be prepared to wait for more flexible scheduling options as they gain seniority.

The benefits of being a part-time flight attendant

Working part-time as a flight attendant can offer significant advantages, especially for individuals seeking a flexible career or a way to supplement their income. Here are some key benefits:

  • Work-life balance: One of the main reasons people seek part-time flight attendant roles is the improved work-life balance. Part-time crew members can schedule time off for family, education, or personal projects while still enjoying the benefits of the aviation industry.
  • Travel perks: Like full-time flight attendants, part-time crew members still have access to generous travel benefits, such as free or discounted flights, hotel accommodations, and mileage programs. Many part-time flight attendants use these perks to travel during their off days, taking advantage of the flexibility in their schedules.
  • Job stability: Part-time flight attendants can still enjoy many of the same benefits as full-time employees, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and vacation days, depending on the airline. This stability makes part-time roles a viable option for those seeking reliable work without the demands of a full-time schedule.

Challenges of working as a part-time flight attendant

While part-time roles offer many benefits, there are also challenges to consider. The aviation industry is fast-paced, and juggling flight schedules with personal commitments can sometimes be difficult.

  • Inconsistent income: Since part-time flight attendants work fewer hours, their paychecks may fluctuate from month to month. This can make budgeting more challenging, especially if hours or flights are unexpectedly reduced.
  • Fewer route options: Part-time flight attendants may not always have access to the most desirable routes, as these are often given to full-time, senior crew members. This can mean working less favourable hours or dealing with unpredictable flight schedules.
  • Long on-call periods: Some airlines require part-time flight attendants to be available for on-call shifts, where they must be ready to report to work at short notice. This can limit the flexibility that part-time workers are looking for.

Despite these challenges, many part-time flight attendants find the trade-offs worthwhile, especially if they enjoy the unique experiences and travel opportunities that come with the job.

How to find part-time flight attendant jobs

If you’re interested in becoming a part-time flight attendant, finding open positions may require some patience and persistence. Here’s where to look:

  • Airline career websites: Most airlines list job openings on their official careers pages, and it’s worth checking for part-time roles. Airlines like Breeze Airways and regional carriers are more likely to offer part-time positions.
  • Job search platforms: Websites like CabinCrew24, Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn can be useful for finding part-time flight attendant opportunities. Setting up job alerts for “part-time flight attendant” can help you stay updated on new listings.
  • Networking in the aviation industry: For those already working in aviation, speaking with colleagues or attending industry events can open doors to part-time opportunities. Senior flight attendants often have insights on how to reduce flight hours or transition to part-time roles over time.

Is being a part-time flight attendant right for you?

While part-time flight attendant positions are not as common as full-time roles, they do exist, especially in smaller or regional airlines. For those looking to balance another job, education, or family life, the flexibility of part-time work can be ideal. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons, such as income fluctuations and fewer desirable routes.

Have you ever worked as a part-time flight attendant, or are you interested in pursuing this career? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! You can also join our Cabin Crew Forum to connect with other flight attendants and explore the latest job opportunities on our Cabin Crew Jobs page.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are part-time flight attendant jobs available?

Yes, but they are less common than full-time positions. Some regional airlines and smaller carriers offer part-time roles. Larger airlines typically have fewer part-time options.

2. Do part-time flight attendants have the same duties as full-time attendants?

Yes, part-time and full-time flight attendants have the same responsibilities, including ensuring passenger safety and providing customer service. The main difference is the number of hours worked.

3. How do part-time flight attendants schedule their shifts?

Part-time flight attendants often work fewer shifts per month and may have more flexible schedules. Seniority plays a big role in how shifts are assigned, with more experienced crew members getting better options.

4. What are the benefits of working part-time as a flight attendant?

Part-time flight attendants enjoy a better work-life balance and still receive travel perks like free or discounted flights. Many also have access to health insurance and other benefits.

5. What challenges do part-time flight attendants face?

Part-time flight attendants may deal with inconsistent income and fewer desirable routes. Some may also be required to be on-call, limiting the flexibility they seek.

6. How can I find part-time flight attendant jobs?

Check airline career pages, job search platforms, and network within the aviation industry. Part-time positions are more likely with smaller airlines or regional carriers.