Flight Attendant Secrets and Top Tips for a Better Flight

8. Payment to flight attendants is withheld until the aircraft door is closed.

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Many airlines pay attendants by the hour, but only after the aircraft door is closed. This means they are not paid for time spent on pre-flight duties or after landing. Because of this, delays before takeoff can be especially frustrating, as crew members are not earning wages during that time. This pay structure is unique to the airline industry, where ground time is not counted as working hours. Flight attendants must carefully manage their schedules, balancing job demands with the realities of their pay. Delays can mean long periods without pay, adding extra pressure to a demanding job.