Station assistant, flight

What does a station assistant in aviation do – tasks and work environment

A station assistant in aviation works to ensure smooth flows for travelers and baggage at airports. Tasks include check-in of passengers, baggage handling, ticket sales, customer service at information desks, and coordination of various ground processes related to air traffic. The role involves close cooperation with colleagues as well as pilots, cabin crew, and security personnel. Station assistants often work in shifts, including early mornings, late evenings, and weekends. The work environment is dynamic and requires high stress tolerance, as the pace can be high during busy departure and arrival periods.

Salary development over time

The salary for station assistants in aviation has developed positively in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,800 SEK per month, increasing to 32 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 34 100 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.2% over three years, with the largest increase occurring between 2023 and 2024. Factors driving this salary development include increased demand for aviation staff post-pandemic, collective bargaining negotiations, and a growing need for qualified service personnel at airports. Salary increases have also been influenced by inflation and competition for labor within the transport sector.

Station assistant, aviation salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (men/women): 24,900 SEK / 30,800 SEK
• Highest salary (men/women): 39,100 SEK / 37,100 SEK
• Hourly wage: 205 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 101% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Small to moderate, higher salaries in metropolitan areas and larger airports

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a station assistant in aviation typically involves high school education with a focus on tourism, transportation, or service. Many employers also require shorter post-secondary courses or internal training focusing on airport security and customer service. Practical experience in service roles is advantageous, and the opportunity to combine education with internships or trainee programs is common.

• High school education: Tourism, transportation, or similar
• Post-secondary courses: Airport security, customer service (often 1 semester)
• Internship/trainee: Usually offered as an introductory program upon employment
• Language skills: English is required; additional languages are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Good service sense and stress resilience

Common benefits and compensations

Station assistants in aviation are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay for unsociable hours, occupational pension, wellness allowance, and sometimes travel benefits such as discounted flights. In addition to base salary, bonuses linked to performance or company results may also be offered. The extent of benefits varies depending on the employer and employment type.

Competition and challenges

The profession of aviation station assistant is competitive, especially in metropolitan areas where many seek employment in the airline industry. Challenges include high work pace, variable working hours, and the need to handle stressful situations while maintaining service quality. During periods of economic downturn or reduced air traffic, the number of jobs may decrease, but increased societal mobility has recently led to more available positions. Technological development and digitalization also impact job tasks, requiring adaptability and continuous skills development.

Tips for those who want to become an aviation station assistant

To succeed as an aviation station assistant, it is important to have a genuine service attitude and a professional approach in all situations. Being flexible and able to quickly adapt to changing schedules or tasks is a key prerequisite. Good teamwork skills facilitate cooperation among various functions at the airport, and high stress tolerance helps manage busy periods. Initiative and problem-solving skills are also valuable, especially when unexpected situations arise. Investing in language skills and learning additional languages beyond English is highly beneficial. Finally, being thorough and organized is crucial, as safety and order are central to the role.

Key facts about aviation station assistants

• Salary range: 24,900–39,100 SEK/month
• Average salary: 34 100 SEK/month
• Work environment: Airport environment, shift work
• Education level: High school diploma + short courses
• Demand: 550 job openings in 2024

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an aviation station assistant, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, team leader, or coordinator for larger parts of airport operations. Some choose to further their education and move into roles in air traffic control, airport administration, or security management. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate relatively good future prospects, especially at large airports and as air traffic recovers. However, digitalization and new technological tools may change the nature of the profession and its requirements over time.

Common questions about aviation station assistants

• What does an aviation station assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 34 100 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, region, and employer.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become an aviation station assistant?
  - High school education in tourism or transportation is most common, often supplemented with internal courses.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Work takes place at airports, often in shifts with a high tempo and lots of customer contact.
• What career opportunities are there?
  - After a few years, there are opportunities for roles as supervisor, coordinator, or further education within the aviation sector.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is relatively good, especially at larger airports, with 550 job openings in 2024.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowance, occupational pension, and sometimes discounted flights.