long haul Vs short haul flights

The pros and cons of working long haul and short haul flights as a flight attendant

One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to work long haul or short haul flights. Both options come with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each type of flight, helping you make an informed decision that’s best for you. Whether you’re looking for longer working hours and more earning potential or a better work-life balance, we’ve got you covered. Read on for all the info you need to choose between long haul and short haul flights as a flight attendant.

Long Haul Flights

Advantages of Long Haul Flights

Higher Pay: Long haul flights typically pay more per flight hour than short haul flights, offering flight attendants the opportunity to earn a higher salary.
Better Work-Life Balance: Long haul flights often require flight attendants to be away from home for extended periods of time, but the trade-off is longer breaks between flights and more opportunities for rest.
More Opportunities for Layovers and Travel: Flight attendants working on long haul flights often have the opportunity to visit new destinations during their layovers, expanding their personal and professional experiences.
Increased Job Stability: Long haul flights often have more established schedules and a higher demand for flight attendants, providing increased job stability compared to short haul flights.

Disadvantages of Long Haul Flights

But wait, let’s not forget about the other side of the coin. Just like anything in life, working long haul flights also has its challenges. Here are a few disadvantages to keep in mind:

Longer Working Hours: You’ll be working longer hours on long haul flights, which can be mentally and physically draining. It’s important to make sure you’re up for the challenge and that you have the necessary support system in place to help you through.
Increased Exposure to Jet Lag and Fatigue: With longer flights come longer periods of time spent in the air and dealing with the effects of jet lag and fatigue. Make sure you have strategies in place to manage these challenges, such as staying hydrated, sleeping well, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Higher Stress Levels: Long haul flights can be stressful, especially when dealing with passenger issues, delays, and other unexpected situations. It’s important to have good coping mechanisms in place and to prioritize self-care to minimize stress.
Increased Exposure to Health Risks: Spending extended periods of time at high altitudes and in close quarters with a lot of people can increase your exposure to health risks. Make sure you’re taking all necessary precautions to stay healthy, such as getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene, and taking care of your physical and mental well-being.

Short Haul Flights

Advantages of Short Haul Flights

Alright, let’s take a look at the benefits of working short haul flights. Here are a few things to consider:

Shorter Working Hours: With short haul flights, you can expect shorter working hours compared to long haul flights. This can be great if you’re looking for a better work-life balance and more time to focus on your personal life.
Less Exposure to Jet Lag and Fatigue: Because short haul flights are shorter in duration, you’ll have less exposure to jet lag and fatigue. This can help you feel more energized and refreshed when you’re off the clock.
Lower Stress Levels: Short haul flights can be less stressful compared to long haul flights, as you’ll be dealing with fewer passenger issues, delays, and unexpected situations. This can be a great way to minimize stress and maintain a healthier work-life balance.

Reduced Exposure to Health Risks: With shorter flights and less time spent in close quarters with a lot of people, you’ll have reduced exposure to health risks. This can help you stay healthier and more focused on your work and personal life.

Disadvantages of Short Haul Flights

Of course, just like with anything in life, working short haul flights also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are a few things to consider:

Less Earning Potential: With shorter working hours, you may have less earning potential compared to long haul flights. This can be a challenge if you’re looking to maximize your earnings and financial stability.
Limited Travel Opportunities: With short haul flights, you’ll have limited travel opportunities compared to long haul flights. This can be a challenge if you’re someone who loves to explore different parts of the world and experience new cultures.

More Routine: With a more regular schedule, working short haul flights can become routine and monotonous. This can be a challenge if you’re looking for a job that offers more variety and excitement.

Which one should you choose?

So, what’s the bottom line when it comes to choosing between long haul and short haul flights as a flight attendant? Well, it really depends on what’s important to you.

If you’re looking for a job that offers the potential for more earning opportunities, and the chance to see different parts of the world, then long haul flights might be the way to go.

However, if you value a better work-life balance, shorter working hours, and reduced exposure to jet lag and fatigue, then short haul flights might be a better fit.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal priorities and what you’re looking to get out of your career as a flight attendant. So, take the time to think about what’s important to you, weigh the pros and cons of both options, and make an informed decision that’s best for you and your life.

Are You Ready to Become a Flight Attendant?

Still wondering how to become a flight attendant?

Then check out our post: How To Become A Flight Attendant – The Ultimate Guide!

Or you can check out the next post in the series, How much do flight attendants make? Where we let you know what the job outlook is, calculate the first year’s pay and go through different ways you can increase your pay and give you an idea of what your benefits would be.