EasyJet is actively recruiting cabin crew with a specific focus on workers over 50, while Emirates is planning a pilot recruitment roadshow in London. The moves come as both airlines seek to expand their workforces with experienced staff.
EasyJet targets over-50s for cabin crew roles
The budget carrier has launched a fresh recruitment campaign aimed at attracting older employees for cabin crew positions. Since introducing a scheme to attract mature workers in 2022, the airline reports that cabin crew aged over 50 has more than doubled, while those over 60 have almost quadrupled.
Research conducted by easyJet indicates that the majority of adults who have switched careers after reaching 50 felt happier as a result. The airline acknowledged that many people assume cabin crew roles are exclusively for younger employees, with concerns about being the eldest team member, but wants to reassure potential applicants that this is not the case.
Life experience valued by easyJet
Michael Brown, director of cabin services at easyJet, commented: "It's been incredibly encouraging to see the numbers 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."
He added: "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."
Pay, perks, and how to apply
Applications launch from September, with vacancies available at the airline's UK bases. EasyJet cabin crew can expect a base starting salary of £22,000 a year, plus sector pay (which varies per individual flight) and commission (from sales onboard) added on top.
EasyJet employees can also expect to receive a number of job perks, including discounted travel for themselves plus friends and family, and discounts for hotels, airport lounges and car hire. To find out more, visit the easyJet website.
Emirates pilot recruitment roadshow in London
Elsewhere, Emirates is planning a pilot recruitment drive with a roadshow in London. The roadshow will take place at the Hilton London Gatwick Airport on September 21 at 10am and 1pm, and September 22 at 10am.
The airline is hoping to attract experienced pilots looking for positions as First Officers, Direct Entry Captains, or via the Accelerated Command Programme. Emirates pilots do have to relocate to Dubai, but get a generous tax-free pay and benefits package of 1,185,000 AED per year - equivalent to around £236,600 per year, including a basic take-home salary of 575,00 AED (around £114,800).
Successful applicants also get free accommodation in a three or four bedroom villa in one of Emirates' exclusive gated communities, health insurance and an education allowance for school-aged children.
Jabr Al-Azeeby, Emirates’ Divisional Vice President, UK, said: "Emirates pilots fly one of the world’s youngest and most modern all wide-body fleet across the globe."
He added: "They will have the opportunity to undergo robust in-house training at Emirates’ cutting-edge training facility and will also be based in the vibrant city of Dubai. We look forward to having more pilots from the UK onboard our airline, as we ramp up our operations globally."
You can find out more about working for Emirates on their website.
