Virgin Atlantic

The careers page asks for candidates to be at least 18 years old, to have the right to live and work in the United Kingdom, to have no criminal convictions, and to hold a passport allowing travel to all the airline's destinations. No previous cabin crew experience is necessary. The recruitment FAQ adds an arm reach of 210cm, at least three GCSEs or equivalent, and solid customer service experience.

The process comprises five stages: an application with CV, an online situational judgement test, an assessment day with practical group exercises, an offer and contract, then training once pre-employment checks are complete. The right to work in the United Kingdom is confirmed at the assessment day. The FAQ states an average response time of one to three months.

The assessment day is described as a series of practical exercises with no press-ups or lunges. The airline does, however, require candidates to reach 210cm for overhead lockers and to be able to adopt the brace position in a fold-down seat located 45cm from the floor. Medical criteria are aligned with CAA requirements.

Candidates must provide five years of employment history, explain any gaps, and apply for a criminal record certificate (a fee of £25 for the basic version), with an additional certificate required if they have lived abroad for six months or more within the past five years. A security interview, needed to obtain an airport pass, generally takes place towards the end of the process. The airline may withdraw its offer if references are not satisfactory.

Cabin crew are based at London Heathrow and trained in Crawley for around four and a half weeks. The airline highlights at least 28 days' paid leave per year, a rostering request system, and travel benefits available after six months' service. The current uniform was designed by Vivienne Westwood.