Getting hired as a flight attendant in Canada isn’t easy. Airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter have thousands of applicants, but only a fraction make it through the hiring process, intensive training, and probation period. If you want the job, you need to know what airlines really look for, how training works, and what kind of salary and schedule to expect.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
You need to be at least 18, have a high school diploma, and speak English. Airlines provide free training, but pay starts after completion. Salaries range from $39,000 to $60,000+. Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter are the top airlines hiring. Bilingual candidates have better job prospects.

Is being a flight attendant in Canada worth it?
Let’s be honest: flight attendant jobs aren’t for everyone. The hours are unpredictable, the job is physically demanding, and dealing with difficult passengers is part of the deal.
So why do people keep applying?
What makes it worth it?
- Good pay + flight perks – Free or discounted flights for you and your family.
- Work for top airlines – Air Canada, WestJet, and regional carriers like Jazz are hiring.
- Career growth – Start as crew, move up to purser, trainer, or cabin manager.
- No degree needed – A high school diploma is enough (plus training).
Who can become a flight attendant in Canada?
Airlines don’t just hire anyone. You need to meet these non-negotiable requirements.
- Age: Minimum 18 years old (some airlines prefer 19+).
- Education: High school diploma (college in tourism/hospitality is a plus).
- Languages: English required. French is a huge advantage for Air Canada.
- Legal status: Must have a Canadian passport or permanent residency.
- Physical fitness: Must pass a medical exam and be able to lift baggage.
- Background check: No criminal record, clean professional history.
- Customer service experience: Airlines want proof you can handle passengers.
Insider tip: Speaking French = more job offers. Air Canada prioritises bilingual candidates for international flights.
Do you need training to become a flight attendant in Canada?
Yes, but you don’t need to pay for it upfront—airlines provide their own in-house training.
How it works
- Air Canada: 7-week training (Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver).
- WestJet: 5-week training (Calgary HQ).
- Porter Airlines: 4-week training (Toronto Billy Bishop Airport).
Training covers:
- Emergency procedures – Fire drills, water landings, first aid.
- Customer service – Handling complaints, de-escalating situations.
- Aircraft systems – Door operations, seat configurations, safety equipment.
Certification: After completing training, you get Transport Canada certification, allowing you to work for any airline in Canada.
What’s it like working as a flight attendant in Canada?
Not a 9-to-5 job. Expect long shifts, short layovers, and irregular schedules.
Typical work schedule
- On-call (reserve duty) for the first 6-12 months.
- Work weekends, holidays, overnight flights.
- Flights can be short-haul (Toronto to Vancouver) or long-haul (Canada to Europe/Asia).
New hires start on standby. You’ll get last-minute calls for flights—sometimes with a few hours’ notice.
How much do flight attendants make in Canada?
How much do flight attendants really make? It depends on seniority and airline.
Average pay (2025)
Country | Entry-Level Salary | Mid-Level | Senior-Level |
---|---|---|---|
Canada | $39,000 – $42,000 | $45,000 – $55,000 | $60,000+ |
USA | $48,000 – $55,000 | $60,000 – $75,000 | $90,000+ |
UK | £18,000 – £22,000 | £25,000 – £35,000 | £40,000+ |
UAE (Emirates, Qatar, Etihad) | Tax-free $30,000 – $40,000 | $50,000+ | $70,000+ |
Takeaway:
- Canada pays well compared to the UK but lags behind the US and UAE.
- UAE airlines offer tax-free salaries, but you must relocate to Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
- If you speak French, Air Canada offers premium pay for bilingual routes.
Which airlines in Canada are hiring right now?
Here’s where to apply:
Major airlines
- Air Canada – Largest airline, best for international routes.
- WestJet – Known for its friendly culture, mostly domestic flights.
- Porter Airlines – Smaller airline, short-haul routes in Canada/US.
Regional carriers
- Jazz Aviation – Feeder airline for Air Canada, good for new hires.
- Flair Airlines – Budget airline with rapid expansion.
- Sunwing – Seasonal flights to Caribbean destinations.
Where to apply? Directly on airline career pages or CabinCrew24 and Job Bank Canada.
Are flight attendant jobs in Canada growing or shrinking?
Is demand growing or shrinking? Here’s what’s happening in the Canadian aviation job market.
2025–2031 forecast
📈 Steady demand for flight attendants as air travel continues recovering post-pandemic.
📍 Best provinces for jobs: Quebec, BC, and Ontario (due to major airport hubs).
💬 Bilingual (French-English) crew have a higher chance of getting hired, especially at Air Canada.
Biggest hiring waves: Airlines hire seasonally, with most recruitment happening in late winter (January-March) for summer hiring.
How to apply and get hired as a flight attendant in Canada
Applying is easy. Getting hired? Not so much. Airlines get thousands of applications per opening.
Step 1: Submit your application
- Upload your CV and cover letter on the airline’s website.
- Highlight customer service skills and language abilities.
Step 2: Pass the interviews
- Video interview – Pre-recorded questions (basic customer service scenarios).
- In-person interview – Group assessment, role-play, and safety drills.
Step 3: Background check and training
- Medical exam, criminal record check.
- If you pass everything, you get invited to training.
Recruiter tip: Airlines love candidates who are calm under pressure. Expect questions like “How would you handle a disruptive passenger?”
FAQs about becoming a flight attendant in Canada
How long does it take to become a flight attendant in Canada?
Once hired, 5-7 weeks of training. Total process (from application to first flight): 2-4 months.
Do airlines pay for your training?
Yes, but you don’t get paid until you complete it.
Can I apply without customer service experience?
Technically yes, but your chances are low. Airlines prefer candidates with hospitality, retail, or service experience.
Do I have to be bilingual to work in Canada?
- For Air Canada: Yes, French and English required.
- For WestJet/Porter: English only, but French is an advantage.
Is a flight attendant job in Canada right for you?
If you love travel, don’t mind irregular schedules, and can handle difficult people, a flight attendant job in Canada can be worth it.
Ready to apply? Don’t wait—airlines fill positions fast.
Check airline job openings now and start your application.
💬 Still have questions? Drop them in the comments, and real flight attendants will answer.
👥 Want insider tips? Join our cabin crew forum and talk to experienced crew members today.