Des Plaines Contract:Charter Flight Attendant
Position in Des Plaines, IL
Position: Charter Flight Attendant (Flexible/Contract, Des Plaines) Employer: American Airlines (Hiring in Des Plaines) Based in: Des Plaines, IL (our main Des Plaines branch) Experience: Open to all levels.
Compensation: $35-$45/Hour (approx. $83.2k/Year) Benefits: This role offers competitive pay. Set your own schedule.
Day-to-Day
This role centers on your professional skills within the Aviation space in Des Plaines.
- This Des Plaines-based role is an excellent opportunity for professionals skilled in relevant skills.
- Our American Airlines team in Des Plaines, IL is growing.
- Benefit from working in Des Plaines, a key hub for the Aviation industry.
Dynamic On-Demand Aviation
Master the Unpredictable
For those who crave variety, the Charter Flight Attendant role offers the ultimate non-traditional schedule. American Airlines frequently operates specialized charters for military personnel, college sports teams, and large corporate groups. If you are seeking airlines jobs that break the mold of scheduled flying, this is your path. Leave the routine of normal airport jobs behind and embrace a constantly changing operational landscape.
Key Responsibilities
- Adaptable Hospitality: Pivot seamlessly between serving collegiate athletes and providing dignified service to traveling military troops.
- Logistics Problem Solving: Handle catering and operational changes on the fly, as charter flights frequently update departure times or destinations.
- Security & Privacy: Maintain strict control over cabin access and protect the privacy of high-profile or secure passenger manifests.
- Safety Readiness: Ensure all specialized equipment is secured and safety briefings are tailored to the unique passenger groups on board.
Your Rewards
Benefit from premium pay structures associated with charter flying, extensive layovers in non-hub cities, and the full suite of American Airlines' health, retirement, and travel benefits.
Requirements
- Must be 20+ years old with a High School diploma.
- Extensive flexibility and the ability to be away from home for extended, unpredictable periods.
- Strong problem-solving skills and an unwavering commitment to safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Charter Flight Attendant position pay at American Airlines?
This role offers a pay range of $35 - $45. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, base/airport, seniority, and shift at American Airlines in Des Plaines.
Where is this Charter Flight Attendant job based?
This position is based at the airport serving Des Plaines, IL. American Airlines operates at airports across the region, but this specific opening is tied to the Des Plaines base.
How long is training for this Charter Flight Attendant role?
Flight attendant training at American Airlines is typically 3–6 weeks of paid, in-residence training at the airline's training center. You'll cover FAA safety procedures, emergency evacuations, first aid/CPR, service standards, and aircraft-specific equipment.
Does American Airlines offer flight benefits for this role?
Yes. American Airlines extends flight privileges to employees — free standby travel on the airline's flights and deeply discounted confirmed tickets worldwide — typically for you, your spouse, parents, and eligible children. Benefits start on Day 1 or within the first 30–90 days depending on role.
Is there extra pay for overnight or weekend shifts?
Yes, American Airlines offers shift differential premiums on top of your base rate for overnight and certain weekend shifts — typically $1.00–$3.00/hr extra depending on role and contract.
What does a typical schedule look like for this Charter Flight Attendant role?
Cabin crew typically fly 3–4 day trips on reserve initially, then move to line-holder status with more predictable schedules as seniority grows. Monthly flight hours average 75–85, with layovers in destination cities paid at a per-diem rate.
