How to Become a Flight Attendant
You do NOT need to pay for training before applying. Airlines will train you after they hire you.
Leer esta guía en EspañolNote: We’re Aviator.NYC — a pilot-run flight simulator center in Manhattan. We do NOT train or hire flight attendants. But we get a lot of calls, so here’s everything you need to know.
Do NOT Pay for Flight Attendant School
Some websites will try to sell you expensive courses. You don’t need them. Here’s what really happens: You apply to an airline. If hired, they train you — for free. You get certified after passing their training program. That’s it. No outside school needed.
Basic Requirements
- 18+ years old (21 for some airlines)
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid U.S. passport
- Legal work status in the U.S.
- No visible tattoos in uniform
- Ability to pass background check
- Ability to swim (some airlines)
How to Apply (Simple Steps)
Meet the Basic Requirements
Review the requirements above. Most are straightforward - the key is having a valid passport and legal work authorization.
Create a Great Resume
Customer service or hospitality experience is a big plus. Keep it one page, clean, and professional.
Apply Online
Use the official airline career websites listed below. Never pay for a third-party application service.
Interview Process
You may do a video interview or phone call first. If selected, they'll invite you to an in-person event.
Complete Training
4-8 weeks of airline training (you're paid!). You get your official FAA certificate after passing.
Start Flying!
Congrats - you're officially a flight attendant. Get ready to travel and live a flexible lifestyle.
What About Seniority?
Seniority = Everything in the airline industry.
- More senior = better trips, better days off
- You move up the list over time
- If you switch airlines, you start over
Full List of U.S. Airlines (2026)
Apply directly through these official airline career pages. Never use third-party services.
These are the big national and international carriers. They hire fewer flight attendants, but offer higher pay and career growth.
Final Advice
Don’t waste time or money on outside schools. Apply directly to airlines. If you’re hired, they’ll handle all the training. Start with regional airlines if you’re new — they hire more frequently and it’s a great entry point.
Interested in Becoming a Pilot Instead?
Some flight attendants end up becoming pilots. But know what you’re getting into — it’s a completely different path:
- You’ll need multiple licenses (private, instrument, commercial, and more)
- It costs roughly $100,000 in total training
- 3–5 years from first lesson to getting hired at a regional airline
- 8–10 years from when you start training to getting hired at a major airline
It’s a lot of work, but we can help you get started. Learn to fly with airline pilots in Manhattan using FAA-approved simulators.