Cabin Crew Qualifications: Age, Tattoos, Glasses, and Health Conditions

If you are aiming for a cabin crew role, it is important to understand the requirements and standards airlines expect. In this article, we will cover the specific qualifications for cabin crew members, including education, age, physical standards, and health conditions that may impact your eligibility. Each section addresses a common question for aspiring cabin crew, helping you prepare for your career path.

Key takeaways:

• Becoming cabin crew requires meeting specific qualifications related to age, health, and physical appearance.
• Many airlines have strict policies on tattoos, glasses, and other visible features.
• Health conditions like asthma or ADHD may affect eligibility but vary depending on the airline’s guidelines.

Educational requirements for cabin crew

Can you become cabin crew after 10th or 12th grade?

Most airlines require at least a high school education, meaning completing your 12th grade or equivalent is generally the minimum. Completing your 10th grade alone is not typically enough, though regional or smaller airlines may vary. Some candidates pursue additional courses in customer service, hospitality, or language skills to enhance their applications.

Do you need a degree to be cabin crew?

A degree is not mandatory for becoming cabin crew. However, higher education in fields like hospitality, communication, or foreign languages can be beneficial. Having a degree may open up opportunities for faster advancement, and knowing additional languages can be a significant advantage, especially for international airlines.

Health conditions and cabin crew eligibility

Can you be cabin crew with asthma?

Asthma may affect eligibility depending on its severity. Airlines often assess candidates on a case-by-case basis, especially if their asthma is mild and well-controlled. For those with severe asthma, this might present a barrier due to the need to handle emergencies in varied cabin pressure and air conditions. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider and disclose asthma honestly during medical assessments.

Is ADHD a barrier to becoming cabin crew?

ADHD itself isn’t an automatic disqualification. Airlines evaluate whether symptoms are well-managed, as focus and concentration are essential in this role. If you are undergoing treatment and have a solid track record of concentration, you may still qualify. Medical assessments may be more stringent for those with severe ADHD, especially if medications affect reaction time or alertness.

Can you join cabin crew with high blood pressure?

High blood pressure isn’t always a disqualifying condition if it is managed with medication or lifestyle adjustments. Airlines prioritise candidates who can maintain stable blood pressure levels, especially during long flights. Regular medical check-ups may be required for those with hypertension to ensure their health remains stable throughout their career.

Age requirements for cabin crew

What is the minimum age to become cabin crew?

The minimum age for cabin crew typically starts at 18, though some airlines may require candidates to be at least 21. This requirement often depends on the airline’s policies, country regulations, and whether the job involves international travel. Being legally considered an adult in your home country is essential, as cabin crew often need to handle complex situations independently.

Can you start a cabin crew career at 45 or older?

While many airlines have age limits for new hires, starting a cabin crew career later in life is still possible. Some airlines actively welcome mature candidates, particularly those with customer service experience. The main consideration is physical fitness, as you need to handle the demands of the job effectively. Check the airline’s policies regarding maximum hiring age to see if your target airline has specific age requirements.

Physical standards and appearance requirements

Are glasses allowed for cabin crew?

Glasses are permitted by most airlines if they don’t interfere with safety equipment. Corrective lenses are typically required to ensure 20/20 vision. Some airlines may prefer contact lenses over glasses for aesthetic reasons, so check with the airline’s grooming policy. For those with significant vision issues, airlines may have specific guidelines to ensure visibility during emergency procedures.

Can cabin crew have visible tattoos?

Tattoos are often restricted in the cabin crew role, especially if visible in the uniform. Most airlines require tattoos to be covered completely, either with clothing or makeup. Some airlines may allow tattoos if they aren’t visible while wearing the uniform, while others have a strict no-tattoo policy regardless of placement. Research each airline’s stance on tattoos if you have visible body art.

Is wearing braces allowed for cabin crew?

Braces are generally allowed, but some airlines may prefer candidates without them due to appearance standards. Clear aligners like Invisalign might be an alternative if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. In some cases, airlines require braces to be removed before starting the role, so it is worth clarifying with the airline during your application.

Other health and physical requirements

Physical fitness

Physical fitness is essential for cabin crew due to the physically demanding nature of the role. Airlines often require applicants to pass fitness tests, demonstrating their ability to lift heavy luggage, stand for long hours, and react swiftly in emergencies. Regular exercise can help build the stamina and strength needed for the job.

Swimming ability

Many airlines require cabin crew to be able to swim at least 25 metres unaided. This skill is crucial for water emergency procedures, ensuring that cabin crew can assist in evacuations if necessary. If swimming isn’t your strong suit, consider lessons before applying to meet this requirement.

Vaccinations and medical clearances

Some airlines may require proof of specific vaccinations, especially if you will be flying internationally. Cabin crew may also need medical clearances for conditions like diabetes, anaemia, or other health conditions that could impact job performance. Always check with the airline for specific health and immunisation requirements.

Conclusion

Becoming a cabin crew member requires meeting detailed qualifications in education, health, and physical standards. Airlines prioritise safety, appearance, and physical fitness, so researching each airline’s specific requirements will help ensure you meet their standards. If you are ready to embark on this career path, make sure you:

• Meet the age and health requirements.
• Review policies on tattoos, glasses, and braces.
• Prepare for the physical demands, including swimming and fitness assessments.

Join the conversation

Are you thinking about becoming cabin crew? Share your questions or experiences in the comments below, or connect with experienced cabin crew in our forum. For those ready to apply, visit our cabin crew jobs page to explore current openings.