Passenger Attendants salary guide 2025: $37,720 median, 4.7% growth
Passenger Attendants earned a median annual salary of $37,720 as of May 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That translates to roughly $18 per hour, with half earning between $27,970 and $46,590.
While that median lands slightly below the all-occupation average, the field offers a faster-than-average growth rate of 4.7% through 2034, producing about 4,100 openings annually. Pay varies sharply by state, from Alaska's $54,290 to Wisconsin's $24,650.
How much Passenger Attendants earn
The median wage for Passenger Attendants is $37,720 per year, with a mean hourly wage of $18.18. The bottom 10% earn about $27,970, while the top 10% bring in $46,590.
Passenger Attendants include both flight attendants and those working on ships, trains, and buses. Pay in aviation tends to be higher due to union contracts and travel perks, but the BLS occupational category covers all modes of transport.
Pay by state
Alaska is the top-paying state for Passenger Attendants at $54,290, followed by the District of Columbia ($52,730), Kentucky ($44,810), Massachusetts ($43,350), and California ($43,340).
At the low end, Ohio ($26,220), Utah ($25,840), and Wisconsin ($24,650) lag significantly below the national median. Cost of living differences explain some of the gap, but not all—southern and midwestern states typically pay less.
How to become Passenger Attendant
Most airlines and railway companies require a high school diploma or equivalent. For flight attendants, the Federal Aviation Administration mandates certification after completing an approved training program, usually 3–6 weeks, which covers emergency procedures, first aid, and customer service.
Key steps include: applying directly to airlines or transport companies, passing a background check and drug test, completing employer-provided initial training, and obtaining a Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency for flight roles. Many employers also prefer candidates with some customer service experience or an associate degree.
Physically, you must be able to handle the demands of the job—lifting luggage, standing for long periods, and in some cases passing a vision or hearing test. Language skills can be an advantage, especially for international routes.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Complete FAA-approved training for flight attendants (3–6 weeks).
- Pass background check, drug test, and physical requirements.
- Obtain FAA Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency (flight only).
- Customer service experience or associate degree preferred.
Job outlook
Employment of Passenger Attendants is projected to grow 4.7% from 2024 to 2034, which the BLS classifies as faster than average. This translates to roughly 4,100 openings per year, mostly from workers leaving the occupation or retiring.
The 2024 base employment count was 27,110. Growth will be driven by continued demand for air, rail, and bus travel, though competition for airline jobs remains strong. Bilingual candidates and those willing to relocate to higher-paying states like Alaska or D.C. will have an edge.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Passenger Attendant in 2025?
The median annual salary is $37,720, with a typical range from $27,970 to $46,590. Top earners in Alaska make $54,290.
How do I become a Passenger Attendant?
Start with a high school diploma. For flight attendants, complete FAA-approved training (3–6 weeks) and get certified. For other transit roles, on-the-job training is common. Customer service experience helps.
What is the job growth for Passenger Attendants?
The BLS projects 4.7% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 4,100 openings each year.
Which states pay the most for Passenger Attendants?
Alaska ($54,290), District of Columbia ($52,730), Kentucky ($44,810), Massachusetts ($43,350), and California ($43,340).
Is Passenger Attendant a good career?
It offers stable growth and a median salary around $37,720, with travel perks in aviation. Pay varies by location and employer.
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 Passenger Attendants data.