In the UK, minimum height requirements for cabin crew are set by individual airlines to ensure staff can safely reach emergency equipment and overhead bins. As of 2026, the standard minimum height for most UK carriers, such as British Airways, TUI, and Virgin Atlantic, is typically around 157 cm to 158 cm (approx. 5'2"). Rather than just height, many airlines now use a "functional reach" test, where candidates must be able to reach a certain height (often 201 cm to 210 cm) with their fingertips while standing on tiptoes or with feet flat, depending on the airline's specific safety protocols. Some low-cost carriers may have slightly lower or higher requirements based on their specific aircraft types (e.g., Boeing 737 vs. Airbus A321), but the priority is always the ability to perform safety-critical duties effectively.