Whether flight attendants are "paid enough" is a subject of intense debate and recent labor strikes. In 2026, the starting salary for a flight attendant in the U.S. typically ranges from $25,000 to $35,000, while senior attendants at major carriers can earn over $80,000. However, the "hourly rate" listed in contracts is misleading because, by industry standard, flight attendants are usually only paid for "block time"—the period when the aircraft door is closed and the plane is moving. They often do not get paid for the hours spent during boarding, deplaning, or delays on the tarmac, which can add up to 50% of their actual working hours. While they receive "per diem" payments for meals and free travel perks, the high cost of living in "base" cities like New York or San Francisco often makes it difficult for junior crew members to make ends meet. This "pay gap" for ground time has led to significant contract negotiations in 2024–2026, with some airlines finally beginning to offer partial pay for the boarding process.