United Airlines offers competitive compensation to its flight attendants, with pay scales that increase with experience and seniority. As of 2025, the starting hourly wage for a United https://www.onetravel.comAirlines flight attendant is $28.88, which rises annually to a maximum of $67.11 per hour by the 13th year of service. ealviral.com+3United Airlines+3Aviation A2Z+3
Pay Structure
United Airlines employs a seniority-based pay scale for its flight attendants:SkyBound.Jobs
1st Year: $28.88 per hour
2nd Year: $30.64 per hour
3rd Year: $32.59 per hour
4th Year: $34.71 per hour
5th Year: $38.25 per hour
6th Year: $43.30 per hour
7th Year: $48.41 per hour
8th Year: $49.96 per hour
9th Year: $51.34 per hour
10th Year: $53.26 per hour
11th Year: $54.73 per hour
12th Year: $57.33 per hour
13th Year: $67.11 per hour
Additionally, flight attendants receive a per diem allowance for every hour away from their base:ealviral.com+5United Airlines+5GalleyTalk+5
- Domestic Trips: $2.40 per hour
- International Trips: $2.90 per hourCabinCrew24+3Aviation A2Z+3United Airlines+3
These allowances are intended to cover expenses during layovers and are paid in addition to the hourly wage. United Airlines
Benefits and Additional Compensation
United Airlines provides a comprehensive benefits package to its flight attendants, including:
- Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Retirement Plans: 401(k) with company matching
- Paid Time Off: Vacation and sick leave
- Travel Privileges: Free or discounted flights for employees and their familiesSkyBound.JobsCabinCrew24Aviation Dreamer+1SkyBound.Jobs+1
Furthermore, flight attendants have the opportunity to earn additional compensation through:Aviation A2Z+2How I Got Job+2CabinCrew24+2
- Reserve Override Pay: An extra $2.00 per flight hour when on reserve duty
- Profit Sharing: Bonuses based on the company’s financial performance
- Incentive Pay: Additional pay for flying between 200–330 hours in a calendar quarter
- Special Pay: Extra compensation for picking up specific trips designated as “white flag” or “purple flag” days Reddit+3United Airlines+3GalleyTalk+3Aviation A2ZGalleyTalk
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Training and Career Advancement
Upon hiring, flight attendants undergo a comprehensive 6.5-week training program in Houston, Texas. During this period, they receive a weekly stipend of approximately $140, along with provided accommodation and meals. Successful completion of training results in a $1,000 bonus. Aviation A2Z+3CabinCrew24+3SkyBound.Jobs+3SkyBound.Jobs
As flight attendants gain experience, they have opportunities for career advancement into roles such as lead flight attendant, purser, or in-flight services manager. These positions come with increased responsibilities and higher compensation. Aviation A2Z
Conclusion
United Airlines offers a structured and rewarding career path for flight attendants, with competitive pay that increases with experience and seniority. The comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for career advancement make it an attractive option for individuals interested in the aviation industry. However, it’s important to consider the challenges of the role, including irregular hours and time away from home, when evaluating this career path.Aviation A2Z+2
