What does an airplane cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment
An airplane cleaner is responsible for cleaning and maintaining aircraft cabins between departures and arrivals. Tasks include vacuuming, wiping surfaces, replacing textiles, emptying trash, and checking and refilling consumables such as toilet paper, napkins, and hygiene products. The work is often fast-paced and under time pressure, as planes need to be ready for the next flight quickly. The environment varies and may involve work during day, evening, and night shifts depending on the airport schedule and traffic volume. Safety standards are high, and it is important to follow protocols for both work environment and flight safety.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, airplane cleaners have experienced clear positive salary growth. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK, increasing to 26 700 SEK in 2023, and reaching 27 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.8% over the period, surpassing many other service professions. Driving factors include continued high demand for cleaning staff in the airline industry, increased safety requirements, and a shortage of qualified labor. Union agreements and adjustments for inflation have also influenced salary levels. Salary trends show steady upward movement, providing a cautiously optimistic outlook for the future.
Airplane cleaner salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (men), 25,700 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (men), 28,500 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 166 SEK/hour
- Gender difference: Women earn 96% of what men do (28,500 SEK/month for men, 27 300 SEK/month for women)
- Regional differences: Vary, but generally slightly higher wages in larger cities and at bigger airports
Training and qualifications
Typically, no formal vocational training is required to work as an airplane cleaner, but many employers prefer applicants with a high school education and previous experience in cleaning or service professions. Security screening and an introductory training at the workplace are often mandatory. Some airports or employers may require specific training in safety and environmental procedures.
- High school education: No specific focus required, but service or healthcare programs are advantageous
- Introductory training: Mandatory at the workplace, often 1–2 weeks
- Security check: Approval required based on background checks according to airport regulations
- Language skills: Basic Swedish or English may be required
- Experience: Previous work in cleaning or service is advantageous
The work of an airplane cleaner often involves access to the airport's unique environment and an exciting insight into the logistics of the airline industry. Many appreciate the variety and international atmosphere, where colleagues and passengers may come from all over the world.
Common benefits and compensations
Airplane cleaners are often covered by collective agreements that include insurance, overtime pay for work during inconvenient hours, and sometimes wellness allowances. Some employers offer subsidized meals, work clothing, and opportunities for further training within the company. Holiday pay and pension contributions are standard industry practices.
Competition and challenges
The job market for airplane cleaners is characterized by high demand but also challenges related to part-time work and staff turnover. Recruitment difficulties occur in certain regions, especially where air traffic is intensive and needs can change rapidly. The work environment can be physically demanding, involving heavy lifting and working in confined spaces, as well as shift work that can impact private life. Despite this, the profession attracts with stable employment and opportunities for additional work. Technological changes and increased hygiene requirements may also influence the nature of the work and demand greater flexibility.
Tips for those wanting to become airplane cleaners
To succeed as an airplane cleaner, attention to detail and accuracy are important due to high safety and quality standards. Good physical condition is essential, as the work can be physically demanding with high tempo. Flexibility and the ability to work shifts, sometimes at inconvenient hours, are also crucial for job satisfaction. Service orientation and teamwork skills facilitate cooperation with colleagues and contact with others at the airport. Demonstrating reliability and engagement can open doors to more responsibility or further training, especially for those wishing to develop within airport services.
Key facts about airplane cleaners
- Education level: No formal education required, introductory training on-site
- Work environment: Airport setting with shifts and high safety standards
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in larger cities
- Work mode: Part-time and full-time, often covered by collective agreements
- Special skills: Security checks and hygiene routines
Career paths and future prospects
With a few years of experience, an airplane cleaner can advance to team leader, supervisor, or take responsibility for specialized cleaning and training new staff. There are also opportunities for further education within airport service professions, such as ramp agent or security personnel. According to the Employment Service, the demand for cleaners, including airplane cleaners, is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but job opportunities are considered significant nationwide. The recruitment situation is characterized by many part-time workers, which can create a paradoxical situation where there are both job vacancies and a workforce not working full-time. Currently, 123 job openings are reported within the profession, indicating good prospects for those seeking work in this field.
Frequently asked questions about airplane cleaners
- What does an airplane cleaner earn?
- The average salary is 27 600 SEK per month, with variation between 25,600 and 29,700 SEK depending on experience, employer, and gender.
- What is the work environment like for airplane cleaners?
- The work takes place in an aircraft environment, often with shift work, high pace, and strict safety standards.
- Is any training required to become an airplane cleaner?
- No formal education is required, but an introductory training and security check are mandatory.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do within the profession.
- What are the career opportunities?
- Opportunities to advance to team leader, supervisor, or further training within airport services.
- What are the future prospects?
- Demand is expected to remain high with an unchanged outlook over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
