Though ticketing staff and the ground crew ensure that customers concerns are satisfied at the airport, the airline cabin crew is responsible for the safe and comfortable transport of passengers while the airplane is flying.
The cabin crew consists of the pilots who fly the plane and the flight attendants who tend to the needs of the passengers.
Companies typically hire pilots and attendants who have at least a college degree, though smaller outfits may hire high-school graduates. For pilots, a license and flight experience are necessary. Attendants require several weeks of format training from the airline.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment is expected to grow 13 percent (about average) from 2006 to 2016. Competition is keen at major airlines, so regional and low-cost airlines present the best opportunities.
Employment is expected to grow by 11 percent or about average. However, competition is expected to remain strong as more people apply than there are jobs.
As of 2006, pilots averaged $123,500 for commercial airlines and $143,580 for delivery services. As of May 2008, flight attendants earned $39,730 for airliners and $43,080 for unscheduled services like private planes. Both positions boast free or reduced air transportation for employees and their families.
