Cabin Crew Salary UK: What Can New Crew Members Earn?

Imagine getting paid to travel to different cities, meet new people and work above the clouds. For many people, becoming cabin crew sounds like an exciting career. But how much can you really earn? The cabin crew salary UK depends on your experience, airline, flying hours and role. New crew members may start with a basic salary of around £19,000 a year. However, flying pay and allowances can raise total earnings to around £21,000 to £32,000. With experience, base pay can reach about £28,000. Senior roles, such as Cabin Managers and Pursers, can earn up to £45,000 or even £50,000 or more. 

In this guide, we explain UK cabin crew pay, extra earnings, career progression and what can affect your salary. 

What Is the Average Cabin Crew Salary UK?

Thinking about a career as cabin crew? You may first want to know how much you can earn. The average cabin crew salary UK is around £24,000 to £28,000 a year. This figure includes extra pay and allowances.

New cabin crew members can earn a basic salary of around £18,000 to £22,000 a year. The National Careers Service lists a starting salary of about £19,000. With more experience, your pay can rise to around £26,000 to £30,000.

Senior cabin crew and managers can earn around £35,000 to £50,000 or more. Long-haul flights and senior roles can help increase your earnings.

What Is the Starting Cabin Crew Salary in the UK?

Starting a cabin crew job can be exciting. You can meet new people and travel to many places. But how much can you earn at the start?

Starting cabin crew in the UK usually earn a basic salary of £17,000 to £21,000 a year. However, first-year earnings can reach around £21,000 to £25,000. This includes extra pay from flying hours, allowances and bonuses.

Your basic pay can change based on the airline and your airport base. Some airlines offer around £16,800 to £20,500 as basic pay.

Does Pay Change Between Airlines?

Yes, it can. British Airways may offer around £16,800 to £17,500 as basic starting pay. First-year earnings can reach £21,000 to £25,000+. easyJet and Jet2 can offer around £18,000 to £22,500. You may also earn commission from sales.

Ryanair may offer a lower basic salary. However, sales commission can increase your total pay. So, always check the full pay package, not just the basic salary.

How Much Can Experienced Cabin Crew Earn?

Cabin crew can earn more as they gain experience. This makes the career more attractive over time. Experienced cabin crew in the UK can earn a basic salary of £24,000 to £28,000 a year.

However, basic pay is not the only part of their income. Flying pay and allowances can increase their total earnings. Experienced crew can often earn around £30,000 to £45,000 a year in total.

Senior crew members can earn even more. Purser and other senior crew may earn around £40,000 to £60,000 as a base salary. Long-haul flights can also bring extra pay. Some senior crew members can earn £50,000 or more a year.

How Is Cabin Crew Pay Calculated?

Cabin crew pay comes from several parts. Your basic salary is just one part of your income. You may also earn extra money from flying and other duties. Your total pay can change from month to month. It can depend on your airline, flying hours, routes and experience.

Basic Salary

Your basic salary is your regular yearly pay. It gives you a steady amount each month. The amount can vary between airlines. It can also increase as you gain more experience. Senior cabin crew usually earn more than new crew members.

Flying Pay

Cabin crew may earn extra money for their flying hours. Some airlines calculate this pay by flight time or by sector. Therefore, the amount can change each month. A month with more flights may bring higher pay.

Layover Allowances

Cabin crew often stay away from home during work trips. Airlines may give them extra money for these stays. This money can help cover meals and other daily costs. The amount can depend on the destination and length of the stay.

Bonuses

Some airlines offer bonuses to their staff. These bonuses can come from good work or meeting company targets.

Onboard Sales Commission

Cabin crew may earn commission from onboard sales. This can include food, drinks, perfumes and other products. If you make more sales, you may earn more commission. However, this depends on the airline’s pay system.

Travel Benefits

Travel benefits can make cabin crew jobs even more appealing. Many airlines offer staff travel discounts.

These discounts can help you save money on flights. Some airlines may also offer other travel perks for staff.

How Much Does British Airways Cabin Crew Earn?

The British Airways cabin crew salary can change from person to person. In the first year, you may earn around £21,000 to £30,000 or more.

Your pay can depend on your work base, flying hours and experience. British Airways cabin crew pay includes several parts:

• Basic pay: Your regular salary can range from around £16,800 to £22,000, depending on your contract.
• Flight pay: You can earn extra money for the hours you spend flying. More flying may increase your total pay.
• Trip allowances: You may get extra money when you stay away from home. This can help cover meals and other costs.
• Sales commission: You may earn extra money from sales made during flights.
• Experience: Your pay can grow as you gain more skills and take on senior roles.

Which UK Airlines Pay Cabin Crew the Most?

If you want to become cabin crew, pay is an important thing to think about. However, each airline offers a different pay package. Your experience, flying hours and base can also affect your pay.

British Airways can offer good pay for cabin crew. New crew members can earn around £21,000 to £30,000 or more in their first year. Senior crew can earn more as they gain experience.

easyJet cabin crew can earn around £18,000 to £28,000 a year. You can also earn extra money from flying hours and sales. So, your total pay may be higher than your basic salary.

Virgin Atlantic cabin crew can earn around £19,800 to £26,400 a year. You may also get extra money for trips and other duties. Your pay can grow as you gain more experience.

Ryanair cabin crew can earn around £15,000 to £27,000 a year. The basic pay may be lower, but sales commission can add more money to your income.

Jet2 cabin crew can earn around £20,300 to £26,700 a year. You may also earn extra money from flying and other parts of the job.

Do Long-Haul Cabin Crew Earn More?

Yes, long-haul cabin crew can earn more than short-haul crew. However, pay depends on the airline, route and number of flights. Longer trips often give crew more chances to earn extra money.

Longer Flying Hours

Long-haul flights can last many hours. Cabin crew may get extra pay for their flying time. Therefore, more hours in the air can increase their total pay.

For example, a long flight may give crew more flying pay than a short flight. However, each airline uses its own pay system.

Higher Layover Allowances

Long-haul trips often include stays in other countries. During these stays, crew may receive extra money for meals and daily costs.

These payments can add to your total income. The amount can also change depending on the airline and destination.

More Overnight Stays

Long-haul crew often spend more nights away from home. A trip may include one or more overnight stays.

These stays can come with extra allowances. So, more overnight trips may help increase your total earnings.

How Can You Increase Your Cabin Crew Salary?

You can take a few steps to earn more money. However, your options may depend on your airline.

• Work more flying hours: More flight hours may mean more pay.
• Choose long-haul routes: Long flights can give you more flying pay and allowances.
• Gain experience: Your pay may grow as you gain more experience.
• Apply for senior jobs: Senior crew roles often offer higher pay.
• Move into cabin management: You could become a Cabin Manager or Purser.
• Earn sales commission: Some airlines pay extra money for onboard sales.

How Can Routes Affect Your Pay?

The route you fly can also affect your income. Some routes take much longer than others. They may also include longer layovers. Busy routes may give you more flying hours. As a result, you may earn more in some months.

However, long-haul work has a trade-off. You may earn more, but you can spend more time away from family and friends. If you love travel, meeting new people and seeing different places, the extra pay can feel worthwhile. So, long-haul cabin crew can have higher total earnings. Still, you should check the airline’s full pay package before choosing a role.

Do Cabin Crew Get Paid During Training?

Starting cabin crew training can feel exciting. You may also wonder if you will get paid during this time. The answer depends on the airline and its employment terms.

Some airlines may not pay for all training. Others may offer a lower training rate or some financial support. For example, British Airways has offered a lower training rate for new cabin crew. Therefore, always check the airline’s latest pay rules before you accept a job.

How Long Does Cabin Crew Training Take?

Cabin crew training usually takes several weeks. The exact length depends on the airline, aircraft and role. Training covers important skills that help keep passengers safe and comfortable.

You may learn about safety rules, first aid, emergency procedures, security checks, customer service and food and drink service. Training teaches you how to deal with problems during flights. The training can be busy and challenging. However, it prepares you for real situations and helps you feel more confident when you start flying.

What Happens to Your Pay After Training?

Your pay may increase after you complete your training. Once you start flying, you can receive your normal salary and may earn extra money.

Some airlines offer extra payments for flying hours, overnight stays and meals. You may also earn commission from onboard sales. So, do not look at training pay alone. Check the full salary package, allowances and possible extras before joining an airline. This gives you a clearer idea of your potential earnings.

How Much Do Cabin Crew Earn Per Month?

In the UK, cabin crew can earn around £1,500 to £2,500 gross per month when they start. This amount can include basic pay and extra payments. As you gain more experience, your pay can increase. Senior and long-haul crew can earn £4,200 or more per month.

Your pay may change each month. This is because cabin crew do not always work the same number of flights. If you fly more, you may earn more. So, your monthly pay may not always be the same.

What Makes Up Cabin Crew Monthly Pay?

• Basic salary is your main monthly pay. You usually get this amount every month. It does not depend on how much you fly. Basic pay can often range from £1,400 to £1,800 per month.
• Flight pay can give you extra money. Airlines may pay you based on your flying hours or the number of flights you work. This can add a useful amount to your monthly pay.
• Per diems and allowances can also increase your earnings. Airlines may give you extra money when you stay away from home. This money can help cover food and other daily costs. Long-haul crew may receive more because they often spend longer away from home.
• In-flight commission can give you another source of income. Some airlines pay commission from duty-free and onboard sales. Therefore, selling more products can sometimes help you earn extra money.

What Do Cabin Crew Get Besides Their Salary? 

Cabin crew can get many benefits with their job. These benefits come on top of their salary. They can also help you save money.

• Discounted or free staff travel is a popular benefit. You may get cheaper flights for yourself. Some airlines also offer cheaper flights for family members. This can make trips more affordable.
• Hotel stays are also common. Cabin crew often stay in hotels when they work away from home. The airline usually pays for the hotel. So, you do not have to pay for the room.
• Meal allowances can help pay for food. You may get extra money when you stay away from home. This can help cover the cost of meals.
• Pension contributions can help you save for later life. Some airlines pay money into your pension. You may also pay into it yourself.
• Healthcare may come with some cabin crew jobs. The benefits can vary between airlines. Some airlines may offer health cover or other support.
• Lifestyle discounts can help you save money. You may get discounts at hotels, shops, restaurants and gyms. These small savings can add up over time.

Overall, cabin crew can enjoy many useful benefits. So, look at the salary and benefits together when choosing an airline.

How Can You Increase Your Cabin Crew Salary Uk?

Want to earn more as cabin crew? You have a few ways to increase your pay. As you gain experience, you may also get better chances to earn more.

• Work more flying hours: More flying hours can help you earn extra money. However, airlines may set limits on working hours.
• Take long-haul routes: Long-haul flights can offer higher pay and extra allowances. You may also get more money when you stay away from home.
• Gain experience: Your skills can improve as you work longer. More experience can also help you apply for better-paid roles.
• Apply for senior roles: Senior cabin crew jobs often pay more. You can move up when you gain enough experience and skills.
• Move into cabin management: You could become a purser or cabin manager. These roles come with more duties but can also offer higher pay.
• Earn sales commission: Some airlines pay commission on onboard sales. You may earn extra money when you make more sales.

Cabin Crew Career Progression and Salary

Cabin crew in the UK can start with a basic salary of around £17,500 to £21,000 a year. Your total first-year pay can reach around £21,000 to £30,000. This may include extra money from flying hours, commission and allowances.

Cabin Crew Salary Breakdown

Your starting pay can depend on the airline and your location. For example, pay may differ for crew based at Heathrow or Gatwick.

You can also earn extra money from flying. Some airlines pay around £3.50 to £5 or more for each flying hour. You may also get money for overnight stays and onboard sales. These extras can make a big difference to your monthly pay.

With more experience, you could earn around £25,000 to £35,000 a year. Senior cabin crew and pursers can earn around £38,000 to £50,000 or more.

Career Progression for Cabin Crew

Most people start as junior cabin crew. During your first one or two years, you learn about safety, customer service and cabin duties. You also build confidence while working with passengers.

After gaining experience, you can apply for a senior cabin crew or purser role. You may lead the cabin team and take on more responsibility.

Later, you could move into management or training. You could also work in crew planning, recruitment, or airport customer service.

So, cabin crew work can offer more than just a starting salary. With time and experience, you can build a rewarding career.

What Is It Like to Work as Cabin Crew in the UK? 

Being cabin crew can be a fun and exciting job. The job lets you travel and meet people from many places.  You can also earn a good salary as you gain more experience.

The job can also come with useful benefits. Some airlines offer cheaper flights or free staff travel. You may also get hotel stays, meal money and staff discounts. These benefits can help you save money.

Travel is another big benefit. You may visit new cities and see different places. If you love travel, you may really enjoy this part of the job.

However, the job also has some downsides. Cabin crew often work different hours each week. You may start work very early in the morning. Moreover, you may also finish very late at night.

You may need to work weekends and holidays too. This can make it harder to spend time with family and friends. You may also spend a few days away from home. This can feel hard at first.

Overall, cabin crew can be a good career for people who enjoy travel and meeting others. However, you should also be ready for long days, changing hours and time away from home.

Key Takeaway

Being cabin crew can be a fun and exciting career. The cabin crew salary UK can grow as you gain more experience. You can also earn extra money from flying hours and allowances. Staff travel and other benefits can help you save money too. However, the job can have long and changing hours. You may also spend time away from home. Overall, cabin crew can be a good choice if you enjoy travel, meeting people and working in a busy job.

FAQs About Cabin Crew Salary UK

1. Do flight attendants work 40 hours a week?

• Not always. Cabin crew may work around 30 to 40 hours a week. Their hours can change each week.

2. How much do British Airways cabin crew earn?

• British Airways cabin crew can earn a basic salary plus extra pay. Flying hours, allowances and bonuses can increase their total pay.

3. Do cabin crew get free flights?

• Many airlines offer free or cheaper flights to staff. The rules can differ between airlines.

4. Do cabin crews earn well?

• Yes, cabin crew can earn a good salary. Pay can increase with experience and senior roles.

5. How long does an airhostess sleep?

• There is no set sleep time. Cabin crew sleep when their work schedule allows. Long flights can also change their sleep routine.

6. Do flight attendants get free meals?

• Some airlines provide free meals or meal money during work. This depends on the airline and trip.