Virgin Atlantic has become the first airline to let cabin crew show tattoos

Virgin Atlantic seems to be pulling away from traditional airline uniform rules as it has changed its policy on tattoos and eased its rules for those who are inked

Airlines are well known for having strict appearance rules when it comes to flight attendants.

While most have modernised since their heyday decades ago and the birth of the “trolley dolly” stereotype some things still don’t fly on board most planes.

Many cabin crew members are required to wear high heels, have their hair up, wear lipstick and to have to have no visible piercings except in the earlobe.

In fact, over on Reddit, one flight attendant noted: “Women at my airline (UK based international) have to wear a minimum amount of makeup (blush and lipstick) as well as having ‘well manicured’ Nails of a certain range of colours only. Obvious blemishes to be covered.

“We also have to purchase our own tights/stockings and if they ladder or get a hold changed immediately. I spend a small fortune on these!!

“On my specific Fleet we are only given skirts as uniform – you have to request permission to wear trousers. We also have a minimum heel height.”

But, Virgin Atlantic seems to be pulling away from more traditional airline rules as it has changed its uniform policy around tattoos.

Until today, all flight attendants had to cover any visible tattoos with a long sleeved shirt, plasters or make up.

Short sleeved shirts are the standard uniform and long sleeved options had to be specially requested.

Any tattoos that may be offensive had to be hidden alongside face, neck and head ink.

But, now, the rules are being relaxed and tattoos will be allowed to be on show by cabin crew.

Estelle Hollingsworth, Chief People Officer at Virgin Atlantic, commented: “At Virgin Atlantic, we want everyone to be themselves and know that they belong.

“Many people use tattoos to express their unique identities and our customer-facing and uniformed colleagues should not be excluded from doing so if they choose.

“That’s why, in line with our focus on inclusion and championing individuality, we’re relaxing our tattoo restrictions for all our people. We’re proud to be the airline that sees the world differently and allows our people to truly be themselves.”

While inked up flight attendants can now bare their body modifications with pride any face, neck and head tattoos must remain covered up – although Virgin is keen to review this policy soon.

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And, anyone who’s tatted up, but has always wanted to work in the travel industry may be in luck as Virgin is recruiting new cabin crew again.

However, competition is tough as in January over 5,000 applications were sent in for 400 roles.

So make sure to put your best foot forwards.