easyJet has revealed that since first launching its initiative to recruit older workers in 2022, the number of cabin crew over the age of 50 has now more than doubled (up 127%) at the airline, with over 60s almost quadrupling in numbers.
Now, with a brand-new recruitment drive for hundreds of new crew roles for 2027 set to open next month, the airline wants to encourage even more to join.
Since first inspiring ‘empty nesters’ to join their high-flying ranks back in 2022, adults over the age of 50 have increasingly pivoted to a career in the skies as cabin crew at easyJet, bringing with them transferable skills, years of experience, and enthusiasm in abundance.
New data from easyJet reveals that 4 in 5 (80%) UK adults who have made a career change after 50 reported an improvement in their overall happiness. Key drivers include regaining a sense of control over life and work (78%), feeling more capable (74%) and increased confidence (71%).
What’s more, 69% said pivoting taught them what they truly want out of a career and 65% wished they’d made the change sooner, while almost 9 in 10 (88%) would encourage others in their age group to learn a new skill.
The research showed Travel and Tourism to be the most attractive sector for a career change after the age of 50, followed by Creative Arts, Media and Design, and Health, Science and Care.
Top reasons for seeking a job change later in life include wanting more job flexibility (41%), greater job satisfaction and fulfilment (38%), and wanting new experiences (32%).
easyJet’s 2024 ‘Returnships’ initiative offered free in person and online cabin crew taster sessions for hundreds of interested career changers over 50, after research showed nearly three quarters (74%) agreed it was the perfect age to change careers and 67% had considered returning to work. However, prior to applying, over a quarter (28%) assumed cabin crew was a job for younger workers, with 46% concerned that they’d be the oldest in their cohort.
Michael Brown, Director of Cabin Services at easyJet said: “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. 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. With hundreds of cabin crew roles set to be available across the UK, we would encourage even more to apply, and we look forward to seeing this community at easyJet grow further in the years to come.”
