What is the term for the actual elapsed time from departure to arrival for the purposes of pay?

The term "Flight Time" refers specifically to the actual elapsed time from the moment an aircraft departs until it arrives at its destination, which is the basis for calculating pay for flight attendants. This duration measures the time the aircraft is in motion and the crew is actively working, reflecting the true time spent on the flight. It is crucial in the context of aviation pay structures because time logged in this capacity directly relates to remuneration for crew members.

Other terms, while they may describe aspects of air travel, do not specifically denote the pay-related concept. "Flight Duration" may confuse some because it could imply total time spent on the flight, including boarding and post-arrival processes, but it is not the term used for pay calculations. "Elapsed Time" lacks the specific context of flight operations, and "Travel Time" might encompass various aspects of the journey beyond those directly tied to the flight's operation. Hence, "Flight Time" correctly captures the essential component for the purposes of compensation.