Delta updates flight attendant rules with unusual request

Rules regarding flight attendant uniforms and general workplace appearance have changed countless times since commercial flights began to reach travelers in the 1950s.

A 1960s United Airlines job ad (UAL) that often ends up being circulated now, says that airline flight attendants must not wear glasses, be no older than 27, and weigh “commensurate with their height, but no more than 135 pounds” . The aim was to project a “shiny” image of the flight attendant commonly associated with the Jet Age to this day.

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While the rules for being a flight attendant have since relaxed dramatically, airlines still hold employees to an appearance standard that is stricter than in many other industries.

As first discovered by aviation site PYOK, Delta Air Lines (DAL) has sent prospective flight attendants interviewing for roles an “appearance requirement acknowledgement” about how to dress for interviews – specifically, specifying that any perfume or cologne must be “lightly applied” while “must be worn appropriate underwear, but you must not be visible.”

“Genuine goodness that will be remembered by our customers”

“The Delta uniform always represents putting safety first, pride in the Delta culture and demonstrates a genuine goodwill that will be remembered by our customers,” reads the note sent to those who made the initial round of selection to be a flight attendant. at the airline. . “To ensure commitment to the Delta brand and customer service, we have created updated appearance requirements for your interview process.”

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Other rules specified in recognition of the appearance requirement require prospective flight attendants not to chew gum, use profanity while on duty, and keep their nails trimmed and, if painted, to do so in a plain color, such as it would be pink or red.

Any clothing chosen must also be “professional and appropriate”; The general recommendation is to look as professional as you do when you work for Delta just out of uniform.

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Flight attendant appearance rules have changed over the years (here’s how)

The rules surrounding the uniforms and appearance of flight attendants are some of the most controversial in the industry; a very common criticism is that female flight attendants are held to a stricter standard than male flight attendants.

In spring 2023, Australia’s flagship carrier Qantas Airways (QUBSF) updated its uniform rules to no longer require flight attendants to wear make-up or heels on long flights and get rid of distinct ‘male’ and ‘female’ rules for appearance standards – anyone can wear make-up or have long hair, so long as it is properly tied.

In Spain, International Airlines Group (BABWF) – Vueling-owned holiday carrier has been fined €30,000 by a Barcelona court over a requirement that female flight attendants wear full make-up and heels between one and three inches, while male counterparts only have a “clean and neat look”.

The airline has since updated its rules to be more gender-equal, to comply with the court’s ruling that any uniform rules be “less burdensome and more balanced” as well as not show gender inequities .

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