As more career minded people have entered this occupation, turnover which traditionally has been very high has declined. Still, most job openings through the year 2005 should flow from replacement needs. Thousands of job openings will arise each year to replace flight attendants who transfer to another occupation or who leave the labor force. Employment of flight attendants is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. Growth in population and income is expected to increase the number of airline passengers.
Airlines enlarge their capacity by increasing the number and size of planes in operation.
Since Federal Aviation Administration safety rules require one attendant for every 50 seats, more flight attendants will be needed. Competition for jobs as flight attendants is expected to remain very keen because the number of applicants is expected to greatly exceed the number of job openings. The glamour of the airline industry and the opportunity to travel and meet people attract many applicants. Those with at least 2 years of college and experience in dealing with the public have the best chance of being hired. Employment of flight attendants is sensitive to cyclical swings in the economy.