A career as an air hostess is often seen as glamorous, well-paid, and full of travel opportunities. But one of the most common questions aspiring students ask is:
“What is the air hostess salary per month in India?”
The answer depends on several factors—airline, experience, flying hours, and allowances. In this blog, we break down the air hostess salary per month, including basic pay, flying allowance, and layover/international allowances, so you get a clear and realistic picture before starting your aviation journey.
What Is the Average Air Hostess Salary Per Month in India?
For freshers, the air hostess salary per month in India usually starts between:
₹40,000 – ₹65,000 per month
With experience, this can increase significantly, reaching:
₹1.5 lakh – ₹2.5 lakh+ per month (including allowances)
The salary structure is not fixed—it is made up of multiple components, which we’ll explain below.
Components of Air Hostess Salary Per Month
An air hostess salary is not just a single figure. It is a combination of basic salary and multiple allowances.
1. Basic Pay of an Air Hostess
The basic pay is the fixed monthly amount credited regardless of flying hours.
Average Basic Pay:
- Freshers: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000 per month
- Experienced Cabin Crew: ₹50,000 – ₹80,000 per month
Basic pay forms the foundation of the total cabin crew salary and is used to calculate other benefits like PF and gratuity (for some airlines).
2. Flying Allowance (Major Salary Booster)
The flying allowance is what makes the air hostess salary attractive. It is paid based on the number of hours flown in a month.
Flying Allowance Breakdown:
- Paid per flying hour
- Varies from airline to airline
- More flying = higher monthly salary
Average Flying Allowance:
- ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per flying hour
- Monthly total: ₹15,000 – ₹60,000+
This allowance alone can double a fresher’s cabin crew salary.
3. Layover Allowance (Domestic & International)
Layover allowance is paid when cabin crew stay overnight at a destination city or country.
Domestic Layover Allowance:
- ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per night
International Layover Allowance:
- USD 50 – USD 150 per night (varies by country)
For international airlines, this allowance is often tax-free, making the air hostess salary even more attractive.
4. International Allowance & Benefits
Air hostesses flying international routes receive additional perks:
- Foreign currency allowance
- Free hotel accommodation
- Transport during layovers
- Meal allowance
These benefits significantly increase the real monthly value of the air hostess salary, even if not fully reflected on paper.
Air Hostess Salary Per Month: Airline-Wise Estimate (India)
| Airline | Fresher Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| IndiGo | ₹40,000 – ₹55,000 |
| Air India | ₹45,000 – ₹70,000 |
| Vistara | ₹50,000 – ₹80,000 |
| Akasa Air | ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 |
Figures include basic pay + average flying allowance.
International Cabin Crew Salary Per Month
For students aiming higher, international airlines offer much better pay.
Average Monthly Salary Abroad:
- Middle East Airlines: ₹1.8 – ₹3.5 lakh (tax-free)
- European Airlines: ₹2.5 – ₹4 lakh
- Asian Airlines: ₹2 – ₹3 lakh
This makes aviation one of the highest-paying careers after 12th for students with proper training.
How Aviation Courses Impact Air Hostess Salary
Professional aviation courses play a crucial role in determining:
- Selection success
- Initial salary
- Airline placement
Students trained through recognized aviation institutes gain:
- Better interview performance
- Strong communication skills
- Professional grooming & confidence
Well-trained candidates often secure higher-paying airlines early in their careers.
Salary Growth: From Fresher to Senior Cabin Crew
| Experience | Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Fresher (0–1 year) | ₹40,000 – ₹65,000 |
| 2–4 years | ₹80,000 – ₹1.2 lakh |
| Senior Cabin Crew | ₹1.5 – ₹2.5 lakh |
| Lead / Purser | ₹3 lakh+ |
This clear growth path makes aviation a long-term, stable career option.
Why Choose Professional Training Before Applying?
Without proper guidance, many candidates fail airline interviews. A structured aviation training institute helps you with:
- Mock interviews
- Airline grooming standards
- Communication & personality development
- Industry knowledge
Conclusion
The air hostess salary per month is much more than just basic pay. With flying allowance, layover allowance, and international benefits, cabin crew enjoy one of the most rewarding career packages in the aviation industry.
With the right aviation courses and professional training, students can enter the industry confidently and grow their salary rapidly.
If you dream of flying high—financially and professionally—aviation is the right career path.
What is the starting air hostess salary per month?
Freshers can earn between ₹40,000 – ₹65,000 per month, including allowances.
Does flying more increase cabin crew salary?
Yes. More flying hours mean higher flying allowance and higher monthly salary.
Is air hostess salary tax-free?
In India, salary is taxable. International airlines often offer tax-free income.
Can aviation courses increase my salary?
Yes. Trained candidates often get placed in better airlines with higher pay.
What is the highest air hostess salary per month?
Senior international cabin crew can earn ₹3–4 lakh per month or more.