If the lure of retirement isn’t quite taking flight, then rest assured. For easyJet could have another opportunity waiting in the wings.
The British airline is hoping to recruit an army of over-50s to join its cabin crew.
The carrier has launched a new ‘Returnship’ scheme after research showed middle-aged people crave a new challenge.
The initiative will offer free online career information sessions and will lead taster courses at its training centre in Gatwick.
It follows an easyJet survey of 2,000 over-50s, which found that 46 per cent had considered a new career.
British airline easyJet is hoping to recruit an army of over-50s to join its cabin crew (Pictured: a taster session at easyJet’s London Gatwick training centre)
The carrier has launched a new ‘Returnship’ scheme after research showed middle-aged people crave a new challenge. (Pictured: a taster session at easyJet’s London Gatwick training centre)
Nearly two in ten said they thought they could not even apply to be a steward if they were over the age of 30 (Pictured: a taster session at easyJet’s London Gatwick training centre)
However many said they viewed being a cabin crew member as a job for younger people, with three-quarters saying they believed their age would prevent them from getting the job.
Nearly two in ten said they thought they could not even apply to be a steward if they were over the age of 30.
Michael Brown, director of cabin services, said: ‘Being cabin crew can be a job for anyone with the skills, no matter their age.
‘Which is why it’s important that through our initiatives like our ‘Returnship’ campaign, we tackle misconceptions about the job and broaden horizons for even more talented people looking for a new opportunity who can bring their wealth of life experience to the industry.
‘So, if you’re passionate about working with people and want a job that’s different every day, then we would absolutely encourage you to apply and can’t wait to welcome you on board as part of the team.’
EasyJet has significantly boosted the number of middle-aged employees in recent years.
The airline employs twice the number of over-50s than it did two years ago, and four times the number of over-60s.