Which Airlines Allow Tattoos For Cabin Crew: Flight attendants with tattoos, is it allowed in 2002 or 2024? This question is frequently asked by individuals considering a career as a flight attendant.
Which Airlines Allow Tattoos For Cabin Crew
It all comes down to the airline you choose. Nowadays, many airlines are more relaxed about tattoos than they used to be.
With an array of incredible reasons to become a flight attendant, it’s only natural to ponder whether tattoos are allowed in this profession. So, can flight attendants proudly display their ink?
Appearance Standard
Airlines have their own unique appearance standards and specific requirements for flight attendants. Just like there are height and age criteria for flight attendants, tattoo policies also factor into the hiring process.
As an airline flight attendant, you represent the airline’s brand – it’s important for customer-facing staff to maintain a professional appearance at all times.
Flight attendants no longer have to step on a scale before a flight, but they still must meet specific appearance requirements.
Job Interview Of Flight Attendant
Prior to your flight attendant interview, take the time to understand the tattoo policy of the airline you’re applying to. This knowledge will enable you to prepare appropriately and demonstrate your commitment to meeting their standards.
Before submitting your resume for a flight attendant position, double-check that your tattoos can be easily covered. It’s important to maintain a polished look and avoid any distractions during the interview.
The race for flight attendant jobs is highly competitive, so my best advice would be to wait until you are off probation before considering getting a tattoo.
(New flight attendants must complete a probation period lasting from six months to one year.)
For those with tattoos, it’s important to think about covering them up when attending interviews to become a flight attendant. Remember, if you’re accepted into training, tattoos must remain hidden while in uniform.
What Exactly Is A Visible Tattoo?
A visible tattoo refers to a tattoo that is easily noticeable while you’re wearing your uniform. It’s interesting to note that different airlines have their own appearance standards, and some airlines may have more stringent rules than others.
No Visible Tattoo Policy
Certain airlines permit crew members to have tattoos as long as they are concealed while in uniform, on the aircraft, or in the terminal.
Flight attendants are permitted to have subtle tattoos, as long as they are not visible on the face, neck, arms, or hands, which can be easily concealed.
No Visible Tattoo Policy Of Different Airlines
- American Airlines – Visible tattoos are not allowed for flight attendants at American Airlines.
- Delta Airlines – Flight attendants at Delta Airlines are not allowed to have visible tattoos.
- Frontier Airlines – Visible tattoos are not permitted for flight attendants at Frontier Airlines.
- JetBlue – Flight attendants at JetBlue are not allowed to have visible tattoos.
- Spirit Airlines – Cabin crew members at Spirit Airlines are not permitted to have visible tattoos.
- Southwest – While in uniform, Southwest Flight Attendants are not allowed to have visible tattoos.
Alaska Airlines Policy On Flight Attendant Tattoos
Alaska Airlines stands out with its lenient tattoo policy. They embrace the “badge rule,” allowing their employees to have tattoos as long as they are not bigger than their badge, which is approximately the size of a credit card. This means that if you’re considering a career with Alaska Airlines, you won’t have to worry about hiding your body art.
Tattoos on the neck, face, chest, or hands are strictly prohibited. Furthermore, any tattoos that promote violence, racism, or sexism are also not permitted.
If your tattoos don’t meet the necessary requirements, fret not! You have the option to conceal them while in uniform using either your uniform pieces or makeup. So, you can proudly represent your profession without any worries.
Alaska Air requests that passengers cover up tattoos if they prefer not to discuss them, as other passengers may inquire about them.
United Airlines Policy On Flight Attendant Tattoos
Great news for United Airlines flight attendants.
The airline has recently updated its policy to allow flight attendants to proudly display their tasteful tattoos. This exciting change not only embraces individuality but also recognises that tattoos can be a form of self-expression. So, if you’re a flight attendant dreaming of getting inked, United Airlines has got your back.
United Airlines flight attendants are prohibited from having tattoos on their face, hands, or neck.
Tattoos on the face, hands, or neck are not allowed for United Airlines flight attendants.
To maintain visibility, you are allowed to have one adjacent area of tattoos on each arm, wrist, leg, and foot. These tattoos should not exceed the size of a credit card or your United badge.
United Airlines strictly prohibits the display of offensive tattoos that may cause discomfort or offence to fellow employees or customers. Such tattoos encompass violent, obscene, sexual, racist, or objectionable content, as well as any imagery featuring weapons. As outlined in United’s tattoo policy, employees are required to keep these tattoos covered by their uniform garments.
In the past, United Airlines had a firm policy against visible tattoos. However, things have changed now! United has decided to embrace diversity and is now permitting nose piercings for everyone, regardless of gender. The only requirement is that the piercing should be a single stud, not exceeding 2mm in size. It’s great to see United Airlines adapting to the evolving times.
Sky West Policy On Flight Attendant Tattoos
Visible tattoos are allowed, but there are certain restrictions regarding their size and placement. Any tattoos that do not comply with these guidelines should be concealed either by wearing the uniform or by using tattoo makeup that matches the individual’s skin tone. It is important to note that bandages are not considered an acceptable method of covering tattoos. Additionally, offensive tattoos should never be visible.
SkyWest Airlines permits single stud nose piercings that are 2mm or smaller. Flight Attendants are allowed to have up to two piercings per ear. Gauges must be covered with clear or skin toned plugs and should not be larger than ½ inch. Any other facial, mouth, or tongue piercings are not allowed.
What About A Forearm Tattoo?
One common question we hear is, “Are arm tattoos allowed for flight attendants?” Since most airlines have uniforms with long sleeves, you can easily cover up your tattoos with makeup or by wearing the uniform properly.
In most cases, airlines do not permit the use of bandages to cover tattoos, leaving individuals with limited alternatives such as makeup or long sleeves.
What About A Wrist Tattoo?
A wrist tattoo may be noticeable unless it can be concealed with a watch, long sleeves or makeup.
Wearing a watch is a must for flight attendants to ensure that any wrist tattoos are covered up.
If your wrist tattoo is no bigger than a credit card, Alaska Air permits its display, provided it complies with their set criteria. Familiarise yourself with their guidelines to ensure your tattoo meets their standards and enjoy your flight without any concerns.
Alaska, SkyWest, and United Airlines allow this particular tattoo, provided that it does not exceed the size of a credit card and is not deemed offensive.
How About Piercings?
Each airline has its own set of grooming standards, and these standards also cover piercings.
In the airline industry, it is expected that customer-facing employees maintain a conservative look. While tongue piercings are not allowed, flight attendants are typically permitted to have earlobe piercings. Some airlines even allow male flight attendants to wear one stud per ear.
United Airlines is setting an example by embracing gender-neutrality. They have introduced a policy that applies equally to all genders when it comes to earrings. However, it’s worth mentioning that gauges are not permitted, and the airline maintains strict guidelines regarding earring sizes.
Remember, when attending an interview, stick to wearing a single small earring in each ear – opt for a stud or a small hoop (dime-sized). This is the usual standard for female flight attendants.
Nowadays, a few airlines are embracing progressiveness by permitting nose piercings and Cartlidge piercings. However, it’s important to note that each airline has its own unique policy regarding this matter.
Coloured Nail Polish
Airlines are becoming more lenient when it comes to allowing flight attendants to wear colourful nail polish as time passes.
United Airlines has made a bold move by allowing individuals of all genders to wear nail polish, marking a significant departure from their previously strict appearance guidelines.
The polish shades allowed can vary between different airlines. It’s always a smart move to go for a neutral nail colour when preparing for an interview.
How To Cover Your Tattoos
Long sleeves are a fantastic way to conceal your tattoos, but let’s face it, they can be quite warm. It can be frustrating when your sleeve rides up while reaching into the overhead bins or working during the service, revealing your tattoo. Thankfully, there’s a solution – makeup that offers complete coverage and gets the job done flawlessly.
Should I Consider Tattoo Removal?
The choice is yours when it comes to removing your tattoo in order to pursue a career as a flight attendant. If you’re not satisfied with your tattoo and want it gone, then don’t hesitate to take action.
If you’re struggling to hide your tattoo or simply don’t want to bother with makeup, there’s another solution – tattoo removal. Although it can be a painful and lengthy journey (sometimes taking up to two years or even more!), the benefits may outweigh the drawbacks for those dreaming of becoming flight attendants.
If you decide to pursue tattoo removal, make sure to find an exceptional specialist who specialises in tattoo removal.
How About The Flight Attendant Training?
During Flight Attendant Training, you will be required to undergo a procedure called ditching, which involves participating in a water evacuation exercise in a pool. It is important to note that ditching is a crucial aspect of the training.
It has been observed that a few aspiring flight attendants have been dismissed from the training program due to dishonesty regarding their tattoos. These individuals were eventually caught when the truth was revealed during the training sessions.
It is wise to stay truthful and cover up any tattoos to avoid the possibility of being sent home. It won’t be long before all airlines begin to allow small, tasteful tattoos.
While it is necessary to comply with company policy by concealing tattoos, it is important to recognise that tattoos should not serve as a barrier to achieving your lifelong goal of becoming a flight attendant.
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