In 2026, the compensation for Delta Air Lines flight attendants (formerly referred to as stewardesses) is among the highest in the US aviation industry, particularly after recent union-driven wage increases across the sector. Entry-level flight attendants at Delta typically start with an hourly flight pay of approximately $35.50 to $38.85, but this only reflects time spent when the aircraft door is closed. Delta notably became the first major US airline to implement "boarding pay," providing half of the hourly rate during the boarding process, which significantly boosts total earnings. On average, a Delta flight attendant can expect an annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $55,000 in their first few years, while senior crew members with 12 or more years of experience can earn well over $100,000 annually when including profit-sharing bonuses, per diem allowances for meals, and international flight premiums. Beyond the base salary, employees benefit from a robust 401(k) match and world-class travel perks that allow them and their immediate families to fly standby globally for nearly no cost, making it a highly coveted position within the travel industry.