Do airlines pay for flight attendants food?

Do Airlines Pay for Flight Attendants’ Food? The Per Diem Breakdown

The glamorous image of a flight attendant jet-setting around the globe often overshadows the practicalities of life on the road, like, well, eating. So, who foots the bill for flight attendants’ meals while they’re away from home? The answer isn’t as simple as a free airline meal. While crew members do sometimes have access to onboard food, the primary way airlines cover their flight attendants’ meal expenses is through a per diem.

A per diem, short for “per day,” is a fixed allowance provided to cover meals and incidental expenses incurred while working away from their base. This isn’t a reimbursement system where receipts are required; instead, it’s a predetermined amount paid directly to the flight attendant. Importantly, this per diem is calculated hourly, not just for active flight hours. Even during rest periods at a layover destination, the clock is ticking, and the per diem continues to accrue.

This system serves a crucial purpose. Flight attendants often find themselves in unfamiliar cities with limited time and varying meal options. The per diem offers flexibility, allowing them to choose food that suits their dietary needs and preferences. It also removes the burden of having to track expenses and submit receipts, simplifying the process for both the flight attendant and the airline.

The per diem rate varies between airlines and can even fluctuate based on factors like the destination and layover duration. Some airlines might offer higher per diems for expensive cities, recognizing the increased cost of living. Furthermore, collective bargaining agreements between airlines and flight attendant unions often play a significant role in determining the per diem rate.

It’s important to distinguish the per diem from the regular hourly wage. The per diem is a supplement specifically intended for meal and incidental expenses, while the hourly wage compensates for the work performed during flights and other duties.

So, while a free meal on board might be a perk of the job in some instances, the primary way airlines ensure their flight attendants are fed while traveling is through the hourly per diem system, providing them with financial autonomy and flexibility while working away from home.