“incredibly encouraging” to see the number of cabin crew aged over 50
EasyJet is encouraging more people aged over 50 to apply for cabin crew roles as part of a new recruitment drive.
The airline, which operates flights from Birmingham Airport, said it wants to attract older workers and highlight the experience they can bring to the aviation industry.
The move has been welcomed by Labour employment minister Andrew Western, who praised employers for recognising the value of older workers.
Western said: “Supportive employers like EasyJet know the breadth of experience over-50s can bring to the workforce and it shows what can be achieved when this is valued.”
Applications for the new recruitment drive are expected to open in September 2026.
EasyJet said the number of its cabin crew aged over 50 has more than doubled since 2022.
Michael Brown, EasyJet director of cabin services, said the airline wants more people over 50 to consider cabin crew as a career option.
He said older workers bring existing skills and valuable life experience to the role.
The airline said cabin crew members come from a wide range of backgrounds and work across its network of routes.
However, the role involves working according to a roster rather than traditional Monday-to-Friday hours.
EasyJet said cabin crew may have early starts, late finishes and weekend shifts, although employees also receive time off between flights.
The airline described the role as fast-paced, with opportunities for career progression.
Cabin crew members can apply to become a Cabin Manager after 12 months with the airline, according to EasyJet.
Brown said it had been “incredibly encouraging” to see the number of cabin crew aged over 50 increase since 2022.
He said this showed that more people were viewing cabin crew as a potential career change regardless of age.
The recruitment drive comes as the UK government continues to encourage employers to make better use of the skills and experience of older workers.
For people considering a career change later in life, EasyJet’s campaign could provide another route into the aviation sector.
The airline is expected to provide further details about the roles when applications open in September.
The move could encourage more employers to recognise the value of older workers and open up new opportunities for people considering a career change later in life.
The campaign could also encourage other employers to rethink how they recruit and retain experienced workers.
