Entry-level airline stewards and stewardesses made a median annual wage of $39,287 in 2021 according to Payscale.com; however, the beginning salary depends on the airline. You could earn more by working on overnight or international flights, as well as holidays.

In 2026, the salary for a flight attendant (or steward) varies significantly based on experience, airline, and geographic region. In India, for example, the average base salary is approximately ₹537,450 per year, with total compensation including tips and overtime often ranging from ₹149k to ₹919k. Senior flight attendants can earn upwards of ₹1.3 lakh per month in high-paying cities like Mumbai or Bengaluru. In the U.S. and Europe, salaries are generally higher, with entry-level attendants earning around $35,000 to $45,000, while senior crew members on long-haul international routes can exceed $80,000 to $100,000. Compensation is often structured with a base "block hour" pay supplemented by "per diems" for overnight stays and international allowances. Most airlines also offer profit-sharing and commission on in-flight sales, allowing attendants to increase their income potential through seniority and by managing more junior staff on the aircraft.