Being a flight attendant offers many benefits. It allows individuals to travel to different places, meet new people, and explore various cultures. However, there are challenges, such as managing difficult passengers and the possibility of accidents onboard. A key question many people have is about flight attendant salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, flight attendants in the U.S. had a median salary of $63,580 as of May 2025. The lowest 10% earned under $35,110, while the highest 10% made over $136,430.
Veronica Baltoff, who worked for Emirates for ten years and is now a travel influencer, shared details about her earnings as a flight attendant. She explained that flight attendants’ pay structures differ from typical jobs in the U.S. Many airlines, including Emirates, provide a base monthly salary along with hourly pay for flying hours.
When Baltoff started with Emirates in 2010, her monthly base salary was $1,063, and she earned $12 for each hour spent flying. With 90 to 100 flying hours a month, her total earnings ranged from $2,143 to $2,263 each month, translating to an annual salary of $25,716 to $27,156. After her promotion to supervisor, her base salary increased to $1,600, and she earned $27 per flying hour. This raised her monthly income to between $4,030 and $4,300, resulting in an annual salary of $48,360 to $51,600.
Additionally, Emirates provided a per diem for layovers. For example, she received £50 for meals during a stay in London. In pricier cities, her allowance was higher; in Milan, she got €90, and in Luanda, it was $500. Baltoff explained that the per diem covers meals depending on when the flight attendant arrives, ensuring they can afford breakfast, lunch, and dinner during their stay.
Emirates cabin crew also enjoy other benefits, such as a live-out allowance that helps with accommodation. If they choose to rent their own place, the airline subsidizes the costs. They receive a “face card” for discounts at restaurants, resorts, and beauty services, which helps them look their best. Baltoff emphasized that being a cabin crew member at Emirates is not just about salary but also about the rich experiences and valuable perks that come with the job. She reflected on the travel opportunities and wonderful people she met during her decade with Emirates.
What do you think about the pay and benefits of being a flight attendant?
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Source: Upworthy, by Tod Perry