Is my age an advantage or disadvantage when it comes to applying to the airlines?

Let’s take a look at both ends of the age spectrum…
“I am 18 years old with very little work experience”
For most British airlines the starting age to apply for a flying career is 18 years old (at time of application) but there are some airlines like Emirates that require 21 years.
In the UK most of the airlines require at least 3 GCSE’s grade C and above or the equivalent (normally excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking) to apply.
Whilst having the correct grades is a good starting point, you are also required to offer some form of customer service skills. This can be in any form as long as you have had contact with the general public and are able to talk about these experiences whilst at your interview.
Many people ask if they need previous cabin crew experience to apply and the answer simply is, no you do not.

“My family are all grown up and I am in my 50’s, is this too old to apply?”
Most of the UK airlines do not have an upper age limit so with a wealth of work experience and people skills it can be a big advantage. However, there are some factors you do need to consider before you make that decision.
Flying is a lifestyle not a job and it is a big change to your daily routine especially if you are not used to working anti-social hours and being away from home. If you have a young family and require childcare, this needs to be managed as you could be away for days not hours! Also the job is very physically demanding so you need to be fit!

Whatever age you are when you apply, I guarantee you will love this career choice and the memories will stay with you forever!