Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots have been attracting increasing research interest in recent years with particular attention to their development and integration into language classrooms. However, the attempts and discussions on how AI chatbots could support the learning of English for specific purposes (ESP) remain subpar. To address this gap, this article aimed to suggest possible ways to develop and apply AI chatbots for ESP, especially focusing on cabin crews’ English communication in their workplaces. A needs analysis consisting of ethnographic interviews and document analysis was conducted to identify the representative scenarios relevant to cabin crews’ duty, serving as the basis for the development of the AI chatbot. Thereafter, a pilot study was conducted with 24 cabin crews. Data were then analyzed based on thematic analysis, descriptive statistics, and frequency analysis using SPSS 24. The results revealed the cabin crews’ positive perceptions toward the chatbot, thereby supporting the educational value of the chatbot in the ESP field. The study also provided a list of implications for the future enhancement and application of AI chatbots for ESP. KCI Citation Count: 8