Aircraft Service Attendants Salary 2025: $40,450 Median, Fast Growth
Aircraft Service Attendants—often called ramp agents or ground crew—earn a national median annual salary of $40,450, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The average hourly wage is about $19, with the typical pay range spanning from $33,830 (10th percentile) to $57,610 (90th percentile). These workers handle baggage, guide planes, de-ice aircraft, and perform other ground duties essential to airline operations.
How much Aircraft Service Attendants earn
The BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) reports that the mean annual wage for aircraft service attendants is $43,330, or roughly $20.83 per hour. Half of all attendants earn between about $34,000 and $50,000 annually. Top earners in the 90th percentile bring home more than $57,600, while those just starting typically earn around $33,830.
Pay is heavily influenced by location, employer, and experience. Major airlines at busy hubs tend to pay above the median, while smaller regional carriers or airports may pay less. Union representation also can boost wages in some airports.
- Median annual salary: $40,450
- Mean annual salary: $43,330 ($20.83/hr)
- 10th percentile: $33,830
- 90th percentile: $57,610
- Employment: 31,300 workers (2024)
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. Maryland tops the list at $71,740 average annual pay, followed by Tennessee ($56,620), Hawaii ($53,770), Washington ($50,520), and Minnesota ($46,930). At the other end, South Carolina averages $36,130, Iowa $35,560, and West Virginia $30,840.
- Highest-paying: Maryland ($71,740), Tennessee ($56,620), Hawaii ($53,770), Washington ($50,520), Minnesota ($46,930)
- Lower-paying: South Carolina ($36,130), Iowa ($35,560), West Virginia ($30,840)
How to become Aircraft Service Attendant
Most airlines require a high school diploma or GED. No college degree is necessary, but a valid driver’s license and clean driving record are often required. You'll need to pass a background check and drug test, and be able to lift 50–70 pounds repeatedly.
Training is typically on the job, lasting several weeks. It covers safety procedures, operating ground equipment (tugs, belt loaders, de-icers), and FAA regulations. Some employers prefer candidates with prior customer service or ramp experience, but many hire entry-level. A commercial driver’s license (CDL) can be a plus for operating larger vehicles.
- Step 1: Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Step 2: Get a valid driver’s license and pass a background check/drug test.
- Step 3: Apply for entry-level positions at airlines or ground handling companies.
- Step 4: Complete employer-provided on-the-job training (typically 2–4 weeks).
- Step 5: Obtain any required certifications (e.g., hazardous materials, de-icing) as needed.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of aircraft service attendants will grow 5.1% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 4,300 job openings each year nationwide, driven by the need to replace workers who transfer or leave the occupation. Air travel is expected to continue recovering and expanding, supporting demand for ground support roles.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for an aircraft service attendant?
Entry-level attendants typically earn around the 10th percentile wage, which is $33,830 per year or about $16.27 per hour, according to BLS data.
What is the highest paying state for aircraft service attendants?
Maryland offers the highest average salary at $71,740 per year. Other top-paying states include Tennessee ($56,620), Hawaii ($53,770), and Washington ($50,520).
How long does it take to become an aircraft service attendant?
You can start within weeks after being hired, as training is on the job. Most airlines provide 2 to 4 weeks of paid training. No prior experience or college is needed beyond a high school diploma.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Aircraft Service Attendants data.