New flight attendants typically receive paid training after being hired by an airline, but flight attendant training schools do exist and some choose to pay for their own training before seeking a job. Training programs can take up to eight weeks to complete.

The duration of "flight attendant school"—officially known as "Initial Training"—typically lasts between three and eight weeks, depending on the airline. Major "legacy" carriers like Delta, United, and American Airlines usually have longer, more intensive training programs that last about six to eight weeks at their dedicated training centers (like Delta's in Atlanta or American's in Dallas). "Low-cost" carriers like Southwest or JetBlue might have slightly shorter programs of around four to five weeks. This training is notoriously rigorous, often involving 10-hour days and six-day weeks. It is not just about service; the vast majority of the curriculum focuses on safety and emergency procedures, including water landings (ditching), medical emergencies, fire-fighting, and managing "unruly" passengers. Trainees must pass frequent exams with very high scores (often 90% or above) to continue in the program. While the training is physically and mentally demanding, it is usually provided for free by the airline once you are hired, and many airlines even provide a small "stipend" or housing during the training period to help cover costs before you officially start your first "line" flight.