Want to become a United Airlines flight attendant? This guide covers the full list of United Airlines cabin crew requirements, qualifications, salary, and training details – so you know exactly what it takes to apply.
Quick summary
United Airlines flight attendant requirements include being at least 20 years old, having a high school diploma or GED, and at least one year of customer service experience. United Airlines flight attendant salary starts at $28.88 per flight hour, with top pay reaching $67.11, plus additional compensation for international flights, language skills, and seniority. United Airlines flight attendant training lasts six weeks in Houston, covering safety procedures, emergency response, and in-flight service, with free accommodations and a $140 weekly stipend.
United Airlines flight attendant requirements
Before applying, you must meet United Airlines’ flight attendant qualifications:
- Age: At least 20 years old when applying.
- Education: High school diploma or GED (some college preferred).
- Experience: At least one year of customer service experience (retail, hospitality, food service, social work, military, or aviation).
- Language: Fluent in English (additional languages like Hebrew, Hindi, Dutch, and German are a plus).
- Appearance: Must meet United Airlines’ grooming standards, including tattoo and piercing policies.
- Technology skills: Comfortable using phones, tablets, and laptops for work tasks.
- Travel documents: Must have a valid U.S. passport or a foreign passport with applicable visas.
- Height requirement: While there’s no official height limit, you must be able to reach overhead bins.
- Physical abilities: Able to lift heavy luggage, push beverage carts, and stand for long periods.
- Water training: Must complete a water evacuation drill during training.
How to become a United Airlines flight attendant
Applying for a United Airlines flight attendant job requires passing several interview rounds and completing six weeks of training. Here’s the process:
- Submit an online application on the United Airlines careers page.
- Complete an online assessment (tests customer service skills and English proficiency).
- Attend a virtual interview (behavioural questions and situational judgment tests).
- Go to an in-person interview at a United Airlines hiring event.
- Pass a background check, medical exam, and drug test.
- Complete flight attendant training in Houston.
United Airlines flight attendant salary & pay scale
How much do United Airlines flight attendants make?
- Starting pay: $28.88 per flight hour.
- Top pay: Up to $67.11 per hour after several years of service.
- Extra compensation for:
- Language skills
- International flights
- Lead flight attendant roles
Since flight attendants only get paid for flight hours, the actual monthly salary varies based on scheduling. However, seniority brings higher pay and better schedules over time.
United Airlines flight attendant training
📍 Location: Houston, Texas
📅 Duration: Six weeks (full-time, unpaid)
What’s covered?
- Emergency procedures
- Customer service training
- Water survival drills
- First aid & CPR certification
- Federal aviation regulations
Training benefits:
- $140 weekly stipend
- Free hotel accommodations
- Breakfast and lunch provided
Upon completion, new hires receive an official United Airlines flight attendant uniform and employee ID.
United Airlines flight attendant benefits
- Competitive salary & bonuses
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plans
- Paid time off & sick leave
- Flight privileges for you, family & friends
- Exclusive discounts on hotels, car rentals, and travel expenses
A day in the life of a United flight attendant
Curious about life as a Flight Attendant? Step into the shoes of a United Flight Attendant and experience a typical day on board. From takeoff to landing, see what makes every flight unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to become a United Airlines flight attendant?
To qualify for a United Airlines flight attendant job, you must be at least 20 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and at least one year of customer service experience. You also need a valid passport, fluency in English, and the ability to meet United Airlines’ height requirements for reaching overhead bins.
Does United Airlines have a height requirement for flight attendants?
United Airlines does not have an official height requirement, but applicants must be able to reach the overhead compartments without assistance.
How much does United Airlines pay flight attendants?
United Airlines flight attendant salary starts at $28.88 per flight hour, with top pay reaching $67.11 per hour after several years of service. Additional pay is provided for international flights, lead positions, and language skills.
How long is United Airlines flight attendant training?
United Airlines flight attendant training lasts six weeks at the training center in Houston, Texas. It includes emergency procedures, customer service training, first aid certification, and a water evacuation drill.
Do United Airlines flight attendants get paid during training?
Trainees receive a $140 weekly stipend, but regular pay begins after graduation. United provides free hotel accommodations and meals during training.
Where are United Airlines flight attendant bases located?
United Airlines has flight attendant bases in Chicago, Houston, Newark, Denver, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and San Francisco. Assignments depend on company needs and seniority.
What is the hiring process for United Airlines flight attendants?
The United Airlines flight attendant hiring process includes an online application, assessment tests, a virtual interview, an in-person interview at a United hiring event, background checks, a drug test, and six weeks of training.
Is United Airlines hiring flight attendants in 2025?
Yes, United Airlines is currently hiring flight attendants. Check the official United Airlines careers page for the latest openings and application deadlines.
Can you work part-time as a United Airlines flight attendant?
No, United Airlines does not offer part-time flight attendant positions. All new hires start on a full-time reserve schedule, with more flexibility available as they gain seniority.
Do United Airlines flight attendants get free flights?
Yes, United Airlines flight attendants receive free and discounted standby travel for themselves, immediate family members, and eligible companions.