Qantas Breaks Tradition with Cabin Crew Grooming and Uniform Decision
As seasoned travellers, we have witnessed numerous transformations in airline cabin crew uniforms and practices. And now, it appears that another significant change is on the horizon—one that represents a major leap forward.
Qantas, Australia's national carrier, has revolutionised the industry by introducing gender-neutral grooming and uniform guidelines for its cabin crew. Farewell to outdated rules and hello to a new era!
But what does this groundbreaking decision entail exactly? Well, Qantas has boldly abandoned the rigid categorisations of 'male' and 'female' when it comes to their uniforms and grooming requirements.
You might be wondering why they have chosen to do this after all this time. The answer lies in the airline's response to long-held frustrations among their staff and the changing expectations of their customers.
Qantas recently addressed a growing concern its female crew members raised regarding their uniform policies on long-haul flights. In response to their requests for more comfortable and practical footwear options, the airline has allowed flat shoes as an alternative to high heels.
This change will not only benefit female staff members but also align with their desire for improved comfort during extended journeys.
It's not only female crew members who have voiced their opinions on uniform adjustments. Several male staff members have expressed an interest in incorporating concealer and foundation into their grooming routines.
'These changes will make wearing our uniform more comfortable and practical.’ the airline said.
Under the new guidelines, all staff members will have the option to wear flat shoes with their uniforms, as well as grow their hair long and style it in a low ponytail or bun.
Employees can also now wear jewellery, including watches and earrings, and they can choose whether to wear makeup or not. However, tattoos will still need to be concealed, and hosiery will be required to be worn with a dress or skirt.
'The update doesn’t change our uniform but modernises how employees wear it in line with employee feedback and evolving customer expectations.' a spokesperson for Qantas said.
The Flight Attendants Association of Australia has welcomed these changes, describing the airline industry's grooming guidelines as 'archaic'.
Australian Services Union Victoria Secretary, Imogen Sturni, referred to the previous dress code requirements as 'bordering on ridiculous' and expressed her hope that this move reflects a cultural change in management.
While the changes have been largely viewed as positive, there's still some ambiguity about the specifics of the new makeup rules for male crew members.
Teri O’Toole, the National Secretary of the Flight Attendants Association, has urged Qantas to clarify the rules around mascara, eyeliner, or coloured lipstick and nail polish for male employees.
Qantas' recent decision marks a noteworthy advancement in the airline industry, as it acknowledges the importance of adapting to evolving societal norms and modernising its approach.
Whether you're embarking on a leisurely trip or reuniting with loved ones, it's reassuring to know that the individuals serving you in the skies now have the freedom to express themselves and feel at ease while performing their duties.
What are your thoughts on Qantas Airlines' recent decision to allow their cabin crew more freedom to express themselves and feel comfortable while serving passengers? Do you believe such changes are necessary in the airline industry to keep up with the changing times? Let us know your opinions!
Qantas, Australia's national carrier, has revolutionised the industry by introducing gender-neutral grooming and uniform guidelines for its cabin crew. Farewell to outdated rules and hello to a new era!
But what does this groundbreaking decision entail exactly? Well, Qantas has boldly abandoned the rigid categorisations of 'male' and 'female' when it comes to their uniforms and grooming requirements.
You might be wondering why they have chosen to do this after all this time. The answer lies in the airline's response to long-held frustrations among their staff and the changing expectations of their customers.
Qantas recently addressed a growing concern its female crew members raised regarding their uniform policies on long-haul flights. In response to their requests for more comfortable and practical footwear options, the airline has allowed flat shoes as an alternative to high heels.
This change will not only benefit female staff members but also align with their desire for improved comfort during extended journeys.
It's not only female crew members who have voiced their opinions on uniform adjustments. Several male staff members have expressed an interest in incorporating concealer and foundation into their grooming routines.
'These changes will make wearing our uniform more comfortable and practical.’ the airline said.
Under the new guidelines, all staff members will have the option to wear flat shoes with their uniforms, as well as grow their hair long and style it in a low ponytail or bun.
Employees can also now wear jewellery, including watches and earrings, and they can choose whether to wear makeup or not. However, tattoos will still need to be concealed, and hosiery will be required to be worn with a dress or skirt.
'The update doesn’t change our uniform but modernises how employees wear it in line with employee feedback and evolving customer expectations.' a spokesperson for Qantas said.
The Flight Attendants Association of Australia has welcomed these changes, describing the airline industry's grooming guidelines as 'archaic'.
Australian Services Union Victoria Secretary, Imogen Sturni, referred to the previous dress code requirements as 'bordering on ridiculous' and expressed her hope that this move reflects a cultural change in management.
While the changes have been largely viewed as positive, there's still some ambiguity about the specifics of the new makeup rules for male crew members.
Teri O’Toole, the National Secretary of the Flight Attendants Association, has urged Qantas to clarify the rules around mascara, eyeliner, or coloured lipstick and nail polish for male employees.
Key Takeaways
- Qantas cabin crew will now be able to opt for more comfortable uniform options and wear make-up regardless of their gender as the airline relaxes its strict rules.
- Changes in uniform options and grooming requirements come in response to staff feedback and evolving customer expectations.
- The Flight Attendants Association of Australia welcomed the more relaxed grooming guidelines, describing the industry as 'archaic’.
- The Australian Services Union hopes the changes reflect a cultural shift in management and praised it as a big win for workers.
Whether you're embarking on a leisurely trip or reuniting with loved ones, it's reassuring to know that the individuals serving you in the skies now have the freedom to express themselves and feel at ease while performing their duties.
What are your thoughts on Qantas Airlines' recent decision to allow their cabin crew more freedom to express themselves and feel comfortable while serving passengers? Do you believe such changes are necessary in the airline industry to keep up with the changing times? Let us know your opinions!