[Butch Cassidy Slept Here]

Definitely "haggard," and possibly even "old" are "ageist" terms. The "correct" equivalent for "old" would be "senior" (as in someone who has passed, or is near, the age of 65.) Having said that the descriptions here suggest AA (and maybe other US-based carriers) would do well if they took a page from their regulated days and resurrected the importance of proper make-up. I refer, of course, to the FEMALE flight attendants. The alternative would render the flight a real drag!

I wonder if the airlines with better trans-Atlantic service--yes, like, Lufthansa--go-through something that resembles orientation for new inmates at the big house. Actually, I had a job where I did just that and I can tell you it was a more civilized affair than the description of the OP. Indeed it sounds like Aeroflot might even be able to siphon-off some of AA's customers.