Costs

Cabin Crew Training Costs Explained. What Future Flight Attendants Need to Know:

Unlike aspiring pilots, future flight attendants don't have to pay for their training, as this it is typically covered by the airline. This means that starting a cabin crew career is in most cases not dependent on financial resources. Nevertheless, there are still some cost factors to consider. In this article, we explain the typical expenses applicants may encounter.

Pre-Employment Costs

Before flight attendants can begin their careers, there are certain costs involved. Although these amounts are generally relatively low, it is important to be aware of their potential impact. Some airlines will cover or refund the costs in the event of a successful assessment, but others will expect the applicant to bear the financial responsibility for any additional expenses. This can vary depending on the country, airline, and location of the assessment centre. Possible costs may include:

1. Hotel costs for the assessment
2. Initial health check: This might be required before your training course starts.
3. Passport and Visa fee: Especially relevant for non-EU/US applicants or those applying abroad.
4. Uniform and grooming costs

These pre-employment costs must be paid by you in advance and are lost if the assessment or an employment relationship does not materialise. However, if you are accepted by the airline, you may be reimbursed some of the costs.

Training Costs

The airline generally covers the full costs of the training. Accommodation is also arranged, with the airline organising a hotel for the duration of the course.

However, some minor personal costs are not covered, such as transportation to and from the training centre in instances where the airline does not provide shuttle services. Although hotel accommodation is often provided, candidates are responsible for their daily meals, which can range from €10 to €20 per day depending on the location.

Trainees commonly receive a basic salary or allowance from the first day of training. This amount is generally lower than the standard salary and is intended to cover the participants' daily expenses during the training period. In most cases, airlines require trainees to sign a training bond, which is typically valid for a period of between 12 and 24 months. If a crew member terminates their employment with the airline during this time, a portion of the training costs must be reimbursed on a pro-rata basis.

Personal Expenses

Personal expenses that must be paid by flight attendants after training vary greatly depending on the size and location of the airline. Typical personal expenses after training may include:

1. Relocation cost to the assigned base
2. Accommodation at assigned base
3. Uniform cleaning or replacements
4. Transport to and from the airport (for duty days)
5. Crew luggage or trolleys

Variations across airline

Costs borne by the airline and those borne by the employee can differ greatly. What is covered, and what is not, depends heavily on the airline's size, region, and employment model. In other words, the larger and more prestigious the airline, the better the working conditions and benefits.

For example, large European flag carriers may offer limited benefits compared to airlines from the Middle East, whereas crews at low-cost or small regional airlines have to bear almost all expenses like new uniform parts or airport parking themselves and often have fewer corporate benefits.

It is therefore advisable to obtain detailed information about the working conditions and benefits before applying. These aspects should be included in your financial planning, especially in the case of low-cost and regional companies.

Cabin Crew Salary During Training

As previously stated, remuneration during the training course is not a full salary, but rather an allowance to cover daily personal expenses. The exact amount earned during the course is dependent on the airline and the region. Roughly speaking, you can expect to receive around €400 to €600 per training month. In the Middle East, the actual cash training allowance is sometimes lower, but the costs of housing, meals and transport are already covered.