For what it's worth, although I've never either taught or studied at Cranfield, I do have some reasonable knowledge of universities and the fine art of both studying and lecturing aviation related subjects at university.
Firstly, a Cranfield degree is probably one of the best available in the world - it's an extremely highly regarded institution.
Secondly, real world experience can work both for and against you. In your favour, you'll be much better able to relate what you're learning to the situations and environment you're hoping to apply it to than you would be as somebody straight out of a first degree. Against is that you may not be as current in the "study habit" (and don't underestimate just how hard you'll be working on such a course, it'll be hellish at times and continuously very intense).
So, I'd say if the content is right for you, go for Cranfield - you won't find better. BUT, I'd strongly recommend if you aren't from an academic background doing something (maybe a couple of A-levels at evening classes, or a few OU modules) to prepare you for the study demands rather than try to launch straight into it.
G