New Delta flight attendants can expect to make around $32.20 per hour as a starting wage.
Understanding Flight Attendant Compensation at Delta
Delta Air Lines (DL) offers competitive starting pay for its flight attendants. While the initial hourly rate is a key component, a flight attendant's overall compensation can increase significantly with experience and seniority.
Starting Pay for New Hires
For individuals beginning their career as a flight attendant with Delta, the entry-level hourly wage is approximately $32.20. This rate reflects the initial training period and the start of active service, providing a solid foundation for new recruits.
Earning Potential with Experience
As flight attendants gain experience, their hourly wage at Delta can see substantial increases. Highly experienced Delta flight attendants have the potential to earn up to $72.38 per hour. This growth demonstrates a clear career progression path within the airline, rewarding long-term commitment and skill development.
Comparing Delta to Other Airlines
To put Delta's compensation into perspective, it's helpful to look at how it compares with other major carriers. For instance, United Airlines (UA) offers a slightly lower starting pay but also provides significant earning potential for experienced personnel.
Here's a quick comparison of entry-level and experienced hourly wages for flight attendants at two major U.S. airlines:
Airline | Entry-Level Hourly Pay | Experienced Hourly Pay |
---|---|---|
Delta Air Lines | $32.20 | Up to $72.38 |
United Airlines | $28.88 | Up to $67.11 |
Source: Flight Attendant Salary in the United States
Factors Influencing Flight Attendant Pay
While base hourly rates are important, a flight attendant's total earnings can also be influenced by:
- Guaranteed Hours: Airlines often guarantee a minimum number of flight hours per month, ensuring a baseline income.
- Per Diem: Additional pay for meals and incidental expenses while away from home base.
- Layover Pay: Compensation for time spent on layovers.
- Premium Pay: Extra pay for international flights, holidays, or specific aircraft types.
- Benefits: Comprehensive benefits packages typically include health insurance, retirement plans (like 401k), and highly valued flight benefits for themselves and their families.
Becoming a flight attendant with Delta Air Lines offers a competitive starting wage and a clear path for salary growth as experience is accumulated.