Budget airline easyJet has launched a new recruitment drive aimed at hiring more workers over the age of 50 as cabin crew. The move builds on an existing initiative that began in 2022.
Older crew numbers double since 2022
Since the initiative launched, easyJet says the number of cabin crew over the age of 50 has more than doubled, while the number of over-60s has almost quadrupled. The airline said its research suggested that most adults who changed careers after the age of 50 reported an improvement in their happiness.
When publishing its demographic statistics, easyJet said: "For decades, the image of the aviation industry was rigid: young female cabin crew and older male pilots."
Dismantling the stereotype
The airline said that stereotype is being dismantled as it enters its 30th year. Facing a global talent crunch and a shifting demographic, easyJet has turned to underrepresented groups to fill the cockpit and the cabin.
"The result is a workforce that looks far more like the public it serves—diverse in age, gender, and background," the airline said.
Campaign and opportunities
The spike in older hires follows the launch of "Returnships," a campaign designed to encourage empty-nesters and early retirees back into the workforce.
Michael Brown, director of cabin services at easyJet, said: "It's been incredibly encouraging to see the number of cabin crew over 50 more than double since 2022 – evidence that many are increasingly viewing cabin crew as a fantastic career pivot regardless of age."
"We want more over-50s to apply as they not only bring their existing skills to excel in a career at easyJet, but also a wealth of life experience that is appreciated by our customers and colleagues alike, which is at the heart of the fantastic service our crew are known for."
Employment minister Andrew 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 open from September, with opportunities available across the airline's UK bases. Newcastle Airport is one of easyJet's newest bases, meaning there could be opportunities coming to the North East for the over-50s soon.
