British Airways Cabin Crew Requirements
To join the British Airways cabin crew, here’s what you need:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application
- Speak and write English fluently
- Have customer service experience (this is a plus)
- Be medically fit to meet regulatory requirements and able to get all required passes and documents
- Hold a valid passport (with at least 12 months before it expires) that lets you live and work in the UK and travel without restrictions
- Pass a Criminal Record Check for all countries where you’ve lived for six months or more in the past five years, and provide good references for the last five years
- Be ready to work shifts that cover every hour of every day, all year round, for your whole career
- Be ready to spend periods of time away from home and do stand-by duties near your airport base
- Be able to travel to and from London Gatwick
- Have a smartphone
- Wear the British Airways uniform to the required standard with no visible tattoos or body piercings. Any tattoos or body piercings must be able to be covered and must never be visible on the body or through uniform clothing
- Be the required height, between 1.575m (5’2”) and 1.87m (6’2”), and have a vertical function reach of at least 2.01m (6’7”)
- Be able to kneel over a person in a space that’s only 46cm wide to perform CPR
- Be able to lift a 9kg weight from a height of 195 cm, and pull an 86kg trolley up a 3-degree incline
- Be able to tread water while fitting a lifejacket and pull yourself out of the water and into a life raft
- Be able to swim 50m (55 yards) and then tread water for 3 minutes, and be able to assist people in water
- Be able to lift a weight up to 28kg. This is so that you can lift an emergency overwing window and quickly exit the aircraft
- Not be scared of heights, for example, you need to be able to descend an aircraft escape slide 9 metres above the ground
- Be willing to take off any headwear in an emergency to put on a smoke hood quickly
- Ensure all operational safety, security, health and safety responsibilities are performed to the highest standards in line with the Company Operations Manuals, ensuring compliance with Regulators, British Airways requirements, and all other relevant legislation
- Report safety-related issues through the correct channels, and be proactive in adopting the BA ‘Just Safety’ culture
- Deliver world-class service excellence in line with our service standards and behaviours
- Ensure compliance with all corporate policies and procedures in accordance with relevant legislation
What’s the Pay?
The yearly salary for a British Airways cabin crew member can go up to £25,000-£28,000.
Perks of Flying with British Airways
Joining the British Airways team has its perks:
- Performance-based bonuses and commission for inflight retail sales
- Starting annual leave of 30 days, going up to 34 days
- Ongoing training and development
- Travel concessions across an extensive network and other airlines
- Unlimited discounted airfares for your friends and family
- Company pension scheme contributions
- Life insurance
- Subsidised meals at staff restaurants
- Secure parking near Terminal 5
- Free parking at Heathrow while on holiday
- Discounts at selected car hire, hotels, and retail stores
About British Airways
British Airways, known for its luxury and comfort, operates one of the world’s largest and most modern fleets. It was voted the favourite airline in the Travel Weekly Globe awards in 2016. With crew bases at London Heathrow, London Gatwick, and London City Airport, British Airways is a top choice for many travellers.
Founded: 1910
Headquarter: London, United Kingdom
Main Hubs: London Heathrow Airport, London Gatwick Airport
Frequent-flyer program: Executive Club
Fleet Size: 280+
Website: British Airways
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it tough to become a British Airways cabin crew member?
It can be, due to the high standards and tough selection process. But with the right preparation and mindset, you can do it.
How tall do you have to be to be a cabin crew member at British Airways?
You should be between 5’2” (1.575m) and 6’2” (1.87m) tall, with your weight in proportion to your height.
What does the British Airways cabin crew assessment involve?
The assessment has several stages, including an online application, an assessment day, and a final interview. It tests skills like teamwork, customer service, and communication.
How much do British Airways air hostesses make?
A British Airways cabin crew member can make up to £25,000-£28,000 per year.
