Virgin Atlantic does away with compulsory make-up for cabin crew, skirts for female crew

In a significant change for the aviation industry, Virgin Atlantic announced to drop off compulsory dress codes such as wearing make-up for both female and male cabin crew as well as skirts for female cabin crew. Virgin Atlantic always welcomes staff feedback and hence decided to eliminate the guideline of make-up as a necessity for cabin crew.

 

 

• Both female and male cabin crew are no longer required to wear any make-up, if they so choose. They are, however, still very welcome to wear any of the existing palette of make-up set out in Virgin Atlantic’s guidelines.

 

• Trousers are now available as an option for all women and will be provided as standard when joining Virgin Atlantic. The announcement reflects a remarkable transformation in the aviation industry toward giving more choice to the crew over how they express themselves at work. Under the previous policy, female crew was required to wear blush, mascara and red lipstick at a minimum. Pants have also been made available as an option to all women and will now be provided as a standard when they will join the airline. Previously, pants were available only upon request.

 

David Hodges, Country Manager, Virgin Atlantic, India, said, “Our red uniform is widely recognised at Virgin Atlantic. As a brand, we have always believed in doing things differently, setting precedents across the industry. We want our uniforms to bring out individuality while maintaining our distinct Virgin Atlantic style. Our policy change on styling and grooming is the result of a consistent listening process, wherein employees share their views freely. The policy changes will empower our cabin crew to choose how they want to express themselves at work, while enhancing comfort. Helping people to be themselves is fundamental to our desire to be the most loved travel company.”