Understanding flight attendant requirements in the UK is the first step before applying to airlines like British Airways, Ryanair, easyJet, Virgin Atlantic, Jet2, or TUI. While the basics—age, height, swimming ability, and appearance—are similar, each airline has its own standards. This guide explains what they look for and what to expect from the job.
TL;DR:
- Most UK airlines require you to be 18+, able to swim 25m, and have no visible tattoos in uniform.
- Height requirements vary, usually between 157–190 cm.
- Airlines like BA, Ryanair, easyJet, Virgin, Jet2, and TUI have small but important differences.
- You’ll need to pass online tests, an assessment day, background checks, and full-time training.
Flight Attendant Requirements UK: The Basics
Most UK airlines ask for the following:
- Well-groomed appearance
- At least 18 years old
- Eligible to work in the UK
- Able to swim 25 metres unaided
- Height around 157–190 cm, depending on the airline
- No visible tattoos in uniform
- Good health and a clean criminal record
British Airways Cabin Crew Requirements
British Airways expects:
- Be 18 or older
- Be able to reach 208 cm while on tiptoes
- Speak and write fluent English
- Have the right to work in the UK (no visa sponsorship)
- Hold a valid passport with at least 12 months left
- Have 12 months of customer service experience
- Be able to swim 50 metres unaided
- Have no visible tattoos or piercings in uniform
- Pass a 5-year background check and criminal record checks
- Pass a medical exam and drug test
- Complete the UK CAA Cabin Crew Attestation course
easyJet Cabin Crew Requirements
easyJet Cabin Crew Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a height between 157.5 cm and 190 cm
- Be able to swim 25 metres unaided
- Hold a valid passport with unrestricted travel
- Have the right to work in the UK
- Live within 90 minutes of your assigned base
- Be fluent in English
- Have no visible tattoos or piercings while in uniform
- Provide a 5-year background check with references
- Pass a medical assessment
- Complete a 4-week training course
Ryanair Cabin Crew Requirements
To become a cabin crew member with Ryanair, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a height between 157 cm and 188 cm
- Be able to swim 25 meters unaided
- Hold the unrestricted right to live and work in the UK
- Be fluent in English, both spoken and written
- Have a friendly and outgoing personality
- Be adaptable and willing to work a shift roster
- Enjoy interacting with the public and providing excellent customer service
- Possess a ‘can do’ attitude and a passion for travel
Virgin Atlantic Cabin Crew Requirements
Virgin Atlantic looks for confident, polished crew with:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have the right to live and work in the UK
- Possess a valid passport allowing unrestricted travel
- Have no unspent criminal convictions or pending cases
- Hold a minimum of three GCSEs (grades A–C or 9–4) or equivalent
- Have at least 12 months of customer service experience
- Be able to reach 210 cm while standing on tiptoes
- Be able to sit in a jump seat 45 cm off the floor with feet flat
- Be able to swim 25 metres unaided and tread water
- Commit to a 5-week full-time training programme
Jet2 Cabin Crew Requirements
Jet2 hires friendly, reliable crew with:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a minimum height of 157 cm
- Be able to swim 25 metres unaided
- Hold a valid passport with unrestricted travel rights
- Have the right to work in the UK
- Live within 75 minutes of your assigned base
- Provide 5 years of references and pass a criminal record check
- Pass a medical assessment
TUI Cabin Crew Requirements
TUI looks for crew who can handle both short-haul and long-haul flights. Requirements include:
- Be 18 or older
- Be able to reach 188 cm without shoes
- Be fluent in English
- Have the right to work in the UK or Ireland (no sponsorship)
- Hold a valid passport with no travel restrictions
- Be able to swim 25 metres unaided
- Live within 90 minutes of your assigned base
- Pass a medical exam and provide a 5-year background check
- Have no visible tattoos or piercings in uniform
- Complete a 4–6 week training course
How to Apply for Cabin Crew Jobs in the UK
Most airlines follow the same steps:
- Apply online with your CV and basic info
- Take online tests (personality, logic, or language)
- Attend an assessment day with group tasks and interviews
- Pass background checks and a medical exam
- Complete full-time training (about 4–6 weeks)
What Is Flight Attendant Training Like?
Cabin crew training is full-time and moves quickly. You’ll learn how to handle emergencies, deal with fires, give first aid, and manage passengers safely. There’s also service training to show you how to work in the cabin during flights.
You’ll be tested often, and you need to pass everything to continue. If you fail too many parts, you won’t be allowed to fly. The goal is to make sure you’re ready for real situations, not just theory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to be a flight attendant in the UK?
You need to be at least 18, able to swim 25 metres, have the right to work in the UK, and meet the height and appearance standards set by the airline.
Do I need experience to apply for cabin crew jobs in the UK?
Not always. Some airlines prefer at least 12 months of customer service experience, but others accept first-time applicants with the right attitude.
Can I have tattoos as a flight attendant in the UK?
Only if they’re not visible while wearing the uniform. Most airlines won’t allow tattoos on your hands, neck, or face.
What’s the minimum height for UK cabin crew?
It varies by airline but usually starts at around 157 cm. Some airlines also have a maximum height due to safety equipment limits.
How long is flight attendant training in the UK?
Training typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks and is full-time. You must pass all exams and safety drills to start flying.
Which UK airline is the easiest to get into as a new flight attendant?
Ryanair and easyJet tend to hire more frequently and don’t always require experience, making them good options for first-time applicants.
What’s the best UK airline to work for as cabin crew?
It depends. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer long-haul routes and stronger benefits. Jet2 and TUI are popular for seasonal and short-haul flying.