Career Overview
Cabin crew ensure passenger safety and deliver service on board aircraft — a glamorous, travel-filled career that lets young Sri Lankans see the world while earning excellent, often tax-free salaries.
Entry is accessible: airlines require O/L–A/L, fluent English, minimum arm-reach standards, good health and grooming, and a service personality — then provide full training. Gulf and Asian carriers hold regular recruitment events in Colombo.
Careers progress from economy crew to business/first class, then Senior Crew and Cabin Manager. Air hostess/cabin crew training courses help candidates prepare for airline assessments.
What Does This Career Do?
Cabin crew conduct pre-flight safety checks, brief and manage passengers, operate safety equipment and handle emergencies, deliver meal and duty-free service, care for special-needs passengers, provide first aid, and represent the airline brand.
Daily Responsibilities
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Safety & emergency procedures
- First aid & CPR
- Service standards
- Aviation security
- Swimming
- Grooming standards
Soft Skills
- Fluent English
- Service mindset
- Calmness
- Teamwork
- Cultural sensitivity
- Stamina
- Confidence
- Adaptability
Education Pathway
- 1O/L
- 2A/L (advantageous)
- 3Cabin crew training course (optional)
- 4Airline open days / assessments
- 5Selection: interviews, English, reach test, medical
- 6Airline safety & service training (3–6 months)
- 7Fly — economy → premium → senior
Entry Requirements
- **Education:** O/L minimum; A/L preferred. Fluent English non-negotiable. - **Physical:** Arm-reach ~212cm, swimming, good health/vision, grooming. - **Age:** Typically 18–27. - **Preparation:** Local cabin crew courses improve success.
Recommended Courses
Diploma in Aviation Management
IATA Certification
Certificate in Airline & Airport Management
BSc in Aeronautical Studies
Advanced Diploma in Aviation Operations
Career Progression
- 1Trainee Cabin Crew
- 2Economy Class Crew
- 3Business / First Class Crew
- 4Senior Cabin Crew
- 5Cabin Supervisor / Purser
- 6Cabin Services Manager
- 7Trainer / Recruitment / VIP Private Jet Crew
Industries Hiring
Salary Summary
| Experience | Monthly Salary (LKR) |
|---|---|
| 120,000 – 240,000 | |
| 280,000 – 440,000 | |
| 440,000 – 640,000 | |
| 560,000 – 800,000 | |
The salary information on this page is intended as a general guide for students and job seekers in Sri Lanka. Actual salaries may vary depending on qualifications, experience, employer, industry, location, job responsibilities, company size, performance, market demand, and additional benefits. The figures shown are estimated monthly salary ranges and are provided for informational purposes only. They should not be considered guaranteed earnings.
Certifications That Increase Salary
Frequently Asked Questions
What do cabin crew earn?
Height requirements?
Need A/L?
Swimming required?
How do Gulf airlines recruit?
Are courses worth it?
Can men become cabin crew?
Biggest part of the job?
How long can I fly?
Where to find courses?
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