A JetBlue flight attendant’s responsibilities include many others in addition to flying high in the air and making sure passengers are safe while providing excellent service. But how much do they make? We evaluate one of America’s top airline carriers’ financials in-depth in this article.
JetBlue: The Company Overview
JetBlue is an American low-cost airline and the sixth-largest airline in the United States. Founded in 1998, the airline began operations in 2000. It’s headquartered in Long Island City, a neighborhood in the New York City borough of Queens, with its main base at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
JetBlue Flight Attendant Salary
Below is a detailed table illustrating the estimated salary and benefits for a JetBlue flight attendant as of May 4, 2024:
| Item | Description/Value |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | – Starting: $25-$30 per flight hour<br>- With 5+ years experience: Up to $40 or more per flight hour |
| Monthly Hours | Typically, 70-100 flight hours (varies based on routes and scheduling) |
| Annual Base Salary Estimate | $21,000 – $48,000 (assuming 70-100 hours per month) |
| Per Diem Payments | Compensation for meals/expenses on layovers |
| Profit Sharing & Bonuses | Varies, dependent on airline’s annual performance |
| Health Benefits | Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance |
| Retirement Benefits | 401(k) with company matching |
| Travel Benefits | Free or significantly reduced rates for flight attendants and their families |
| Other Benefits | Might include life insurance, disability benefits, paid time off, and employee discounts |
Flight Attendant Basic Eligibility Criteria
Before diving into specific skills and qualifications, there are fundamental requirements every aspiring JetBlue flight attendant must meet:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
- Education: A high school diploma or its equivalent is mandatory.
- Documentation: Possession of a valid passport and legal authorization to travel internationally without restrictions.
Physical and Health Qualifications
Safety in the skies is paramount. As such, JetBlue flight attendants must:
- Be in excellent physical condition.
- Have vision that’s correctable to 20/20.
- Be able to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
- Reach overhead bins and navigate tight spaces, such as airplane aisles.
Skills and Personal Attributes
The job involves more than serving drinks and meals. A JetBlue flight attendant must:
- Communicate Effectively: Fluency in English is crucial. Knowing additional languages is a bonus.
- Demonstrate Empathy: They must handle diverse passengers with care, understanding, and patience.
- Stay Calm Under Pressure: Emergencies can arise, and flight attendants need to manage situations calmly and efficiently.
- Be Adaptable: Flight schedules can change, and adaptability is essential.
Training and Certifications
Once accepted, candidates undergo rigorous training, including:
- Safety procedures.
- First-aid and emergency response.
- Customer service standards.
Visit JetBlue Career Page