After a few rocky years for the airline industry, 2025 has been a big year for aviation. Travel is booming more than ever, airlines are growing, and more people are considering becoming a flight attendant. For those of us who’ve moved countries or are building a new life in the UK, this career has a lot of appeal.
Naturally, one of the first questions that comes up is: “What’s the salary like?” But the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Remitly, we know that understanding your income matters, especially if you’re sending money to loved ones abroad. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to give you a picture of what you can expect for flight attendant salaries in 2025.
What do flight attendants earn in 2025?
Flight attendant salaries vary depending on experience and location. Earnings typically progress from entry-level to senior roles, and regions will be different, too.
Entry-level, mid-career, and senior pay ranges
When you’re just starting out, you can expect your pay to be on the lower end of the scale. As you gain experience, your responsibilities grow, and so does your salary.
In the UK, flight attendants usually earn an average of £24,000 per year. That’s what you can expect in your first couple of years while you’re getting used to the role and building experience. After that, salaries climb steadily. Senior crew members and pursers can take home £40,000 or more.
The increase reflects the responsibilities that come with experience. Senior crew often manage teams in the cabin and act as the main link between passengers and the flight deck. It’s a reminder that sticking with an airline can really pay off over time, both financially and professionally.
Regional salary comparisons (UK, Europe, US, Asia-Pacific)
Pay also depends on where you work. In the UK, the range is usually £18,000–£40,000, while across Europe it’s closer to €20,000–€40,000 (roughly £17,000–£34,000 at time of writing). In the US, pay is higher on average: $68,000–$94,000 (about £50,000–£69,000 at time of writing).
Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region shows the widest variation. Premium airlines in Japan, Korea, and Singapore pay generously, but low-cost carriers in Southeast Asia often pay far less.
How UK salaries stack up against other regions
| Region | Typical annual pay in GBP | Key details |
| Middle East | £30,000–£60,000+ | Often tax-free, with housing allowances |
| United States | £31,000–£62,000 | Higher salaries, higher living costs |
| United Kingdom | £18,000–£40,000+ | Balanced pay, strong EU travel perks |
| Southeast Asia | £12,000–£25,000 | Lower pay, but cost of living also lower |
This explains why many flight attendants consider working abroad, especially in regions where salaries are tax-free or benefits are more generous.
Hourly vs. annual pay explained
One thing that makes flight attendants pay different from many other jobs is that it’s often based on block hours. That’s the time from when the aircraft doors close to when they open again. Pre-flight briefings, boarding, and post-flight duties aren’t included, even though they’re still part of your working day.
Because of this system, your annual pay depends on how many hours you actually fly. In the UK, hourly rates are usually £15–£25, depending on seniority. If you fly 75 hours a month at the lower rate, your annual earnings might be around £18,000. Fly 100 hours at the higher rate, and you could make £40,000 or more. This explains why flight attendants with the same job title can end up with very different pay.
How flight attendant pay works
To really understand what your payslip might look like, you need to know how airlines structure pay. It’s not just about your hourly rate; allowances, overtime, and international routes all play a part.
Flight hours, block time, and guaranteed pay
Your core pay as a flight attendant comes from your flying hours. Airlines also set guaranteed minimums to ensure you have a stable income.
Airlines know that schedules can change, so most offer a guaranteed minimum monthly pay, usually equivalent to about 70 block hours. That way, even if your flights are reduced one month, you’ll still have a baseline salary. In practice, many flight attendants fly well over that.
It’s also worth remembering that route type makes a difference. Short-haul flights involve lots of take-offs and landings, which means more work in fewer hours. Long-haul flights rack up block hours more quickly and often come with added allowances.
Allowances, overtime, and international pay
On top of your hourly pay, there are allowances. These cover meals and expenses when you’re away from your base. It might not seem like much at first, but over a year, it adds up to a nice bonus.
Overtime pay is another way to boost your income, especially if you’re willing to work peak seasons or cover extra flights.
You’ll find that international and holiday flights often pay the most. Long-haul routes mean more hours in one go, overnight stays in hotels (covered by the airline), and higher per diem rates. Flying on bank holidays can also bring extra pay. These factors are why two attendants in the same airline can end up with very different annual earnings.
Cost of becoming a flight attendant
It’s exciting to think about the salary, but before you start earning, there are usually some upfront costs. Training is the biggest one. Some airlines provide it free of charge, while others deduct the cost from your salary over time.
There may also be uniform deposits, though these are often refunded after you’ve been with the airline for a while. And don’t forget about living expenses during training, which can last several weeks. If you’re relocating to the UK to take the job, it’s smart to set aside some savings for this period.
Top-paying airlines and routes
Not all airlines or routes pay the same. If you’re aiming to maximize your salary, it’s worth knowing where the best opportunities are.
Premium vs. budget airlines
If you’re chasing the best pay, airline choice matters. Premium carriers like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, and Qatar Airways are known for offering higher salaries and stronger benefits. They also tend to operate long-haul flights, which means more allowances.
Budget airlines, such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air, usually pay less. That said, their schedules can be more predictable, and you’re more likely to be home at night. For some people, that trade-off makes budget airlines a better fit.
Domestic vs. international routes
Routes also play a role in how much you earn. International flights often pay more because they involve longer block hours and overnight layovers with extra allowances. They’re also in high demand, so crew with seniority often get first pick.
Domestic routes usually come with steadier hours and the chance to be home more often. The pay may be lower, but for attendants with families or those who prefer a regular routine, these can be a good choice.
Examples of high-paying routes
Some routes are particularly sought after. Transatlantic flights from the UK to the US are among the most profitable, thanks to long block hours and competitive allowances.
Routes to the Middle East, such as London–Dubai, are also known for their pay. Long-haul flights to Asia, like London–Singapore or London–Tokyo, are similarly attractive for attendants looking to maximise earnings.
Beyond base salary: the complete benefits package
Salary is only part of the story. Benefits and perks can add significant value to your overall package.
Health insurance, pensions, and retirement plans
Most UK airlines offer additional benefits beyond salary. These can include private health insurance, pension contributions, and life cover. While they don’t put cash in your pocket today, they add long-term value and financial stability.
Travel perks for staff and family
One of the best-known perks of being cabin crew is discounted or free flights. These are often available to close family as well. If you love travel, these benefits can be worth thousands of pounds a year, and they’re a big reason why many people choose this career.
Allowances, uniforms, and hotel stays
Uniforms are usually provided, though sometimes a deposit is required. Meal allowances are standard, helping to cover expenses during duty days. Hotel accommodation during layovers is also included, saving you money while you’re on the road.
Training and career development value
Airlines invest a lot in training, from safety drills to leadership programmes. These also open doors to promotions and, later on, to ground-based roles. It’s professional development you don’t have to pay for, which adds real value to your career.
Factors that influence your salary
Many elements shape your total earnings as a flight attendant. From your base to your skills, these details matter more than you might think.
Experience, seniority, and skills
The most straightforward way to increase your salary is to stay with an airline. Pay rises are linked to seniority, and senior crew also get priority when bidding for higher-paying routes. That means more long-haul flights and better schedules.
Skills matter too. Multilingual crew are in high demand for international routes. Speaking languages like Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, or French can give you access to better-paying assignments. Certifications in areas like advanced first aid are another way to increase your value.
Airline type, base location, and contracts
The type of airline you work for makes a difference. Legacy carriers such as British Airways generally pay more than low-cost or seasonal operators. Your base location also affects your pay, with London-based attendants often earning more than those in regional hubs.
Contract type is another factor. Full-time positions usually come with higher pay and stronger benefits. Seasonal or part-time contracts can be a way into the industry but may offer less financial stability.
Union representation and bargaining
Airlines with strong unions often offer better pay and conditions. Unions negotiate collective agreements that set minimum salaries, benefits, and protections. While not every airline is unionised, being part of one can have a noticeable impact on your earnings and working conditions.
Taxes and take-home pay in the UK
It’s also essential to think about net income. The amount you take home after tax can look very different from your gross salary.
In the UK, income tax and National Insurance contributions are deducted automatically. For 2025, the tax-free allowance remains £12,570, with income above that taxed at 20%, 40%, or 45%, depending on your bracket.
As an example, a flight attendant earning £28,000 a year will take home roughly £22,500 after tax and contributions. The good news is that perks like free flights, hotel stays, and meal allowances usually aren’t taxed, meaning they stretch your pay further.
How to maximise your flight attendant earnings
While pay structures are mostly fixed, there are still ways to make the most of your earnings. A few smart strategies can help you bring home more.
Career progression and long-term earning potential
There’s a clear career ladder in cabin crew. Starting as a junior flight attendant, you can move up to senior roles, then into purser or cabin manager positions.
Some crew eventually transition into ground-based jobs, such as training, HR, or operations. These roles often pay competitively and offer a more regular schedule. Over a 20-year career, UK-based cabin managers can expect to earn £50,000+, while international roles may be even more lucrative.
Bidding for routes
Most airlines use a bidding system to decide who flies which routes. Understanding how this works can make a big difference to your income.
Crew members submit preferences for flights, and schedules are then assigned based on factors like availability, seniority, and operational needs. While senior staff often get first choice, knowing the system well can help you plan smarter and increase your chances of landing the more lucrative long-haul routes.
Learning languages
Adding new languages to your CV can make a real difference. It not only helps with passenger service but also makes you eligible for international assignments.
Relocating to hubs and embracing overtime
If you’re serious about maximising your earnings, consider relocating to a major hub like Heathrow or Gatwick. These bases usually offer more long-haul opportunities. Volunteering for overtime or holiday shifts is another way to boost your income quickly.
FAQ
How much do entry-level flight attendants earn in the UK?
Usually between £18,000 and £24,000, plus allowances.
Do flight attendants get paid during training?
It depends on the airline. Some pay during training, while others only start once you begin flying.
What’s the difference between domestic and international pay?
International flights usually pay more thanks to longer hours, layovers, and higher allowances.
How do flight attendant salaries compare to other service jobs?
They’re generally higher than entry-level hospitality jobs and come with stronger benefits.
Can you work for more than one airline at a time?
Most contracts don’t allow this, but seasonal or charter work may be possible.
Do flight attendants get tips?
Tips aren’t common, and they’re not part of official earnings.
Do airlines pay for accommodation if you don’t live near your base?
No, crew are expected to live close enough to commute, though layover hotels abroad are always covered.