To expect employers to respond by given date

[HawaiianGirl]

I recently applied for the position of cabin crew with a major airline.
They stated after a successful initial screening then an online assessment that I would hear back from them no later than a specific date, which has now passed several days ago.
Why even give a date if they can't deliver, or even provide a quick email update with an expected date for the outcome? It's really unsettling waiting for a response not knowing either way with my life effectively on hold. I'm 34 and have wanted to do this job for a long time, I've just been waiting for the right time. I'm guessing I haven't got the job now.
AIBU to expect professionalism from them the same as they would expect from me?

You're not being unreasonable, but as you suggest I suspect not a good sign. Possible though that they may be wanting first choice candidates to say if they accept an offer before letting second choice ones know in case. Anyhow good luck

As you say OP, why say it if you don't mean it? Sadly, I think you're correct in assuming that you haven't go the job, of course on the other hand, it could be that the person who said it, has gone off sick, hasn't had the time to get back to you that they expected to have, or is waiting for an OK from a senior manager. So in this instance, I would assume the worst, then if you later hear that you've got the job, it'll come as a nice surprise.

i can’t stand this kind of rudeness… happens all the time. I would email them and ask for feedback on your interview.