Virgin Atlantic ushers in no-makeup for cabin crew

Female cabin crew can now opt to go without makeup and wear pants

7th March 2019, New Delhi: 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.

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.”

About Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic was founded by entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson 34 years ago with innovation and customer service at its core. Today Virgin Atlantic carries 5.5 million customers annually, and was recently named the UK’s favourite long haul carrier by Skytrax, Best Transatlantic Airline at the British Travel Awards 2017 and one of the Top 5 Airlines in the World by Airline Ratings. Headquartered in London, Virgin Atlantic employs over 10,000 people worldwide and operates a fleet of 45 aircraft serving 24 destinations across four continents. Alongside joint venture partner Delta Air Lines they operate a leading transatlantic network – offering up to 38 flights per day between the UK and US with onward connections to over 200 US and international cities. In 2019 Virgin Atlantic will take delivery of their first Airbus A350-1000 aircraft – helping to transform the fleet into one of the quietest and most fuel efficient in the sky.

On May 15, 2018 Air France-KLM, Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic Limited signed definitive agreements to combine the existing trans-Atlantic joint ventures.  This transaction is in the process of regulatory clearance.  Upon completion the airlines’ expanded joint venture will become the preferred choice for customers travelling across the Atlantic offering the most comprehensive route network, convenient flight schedules, competitive fares and reciprocal frequent flyer benefits, including the ability to earn and redeem miles across all carriers. Customers will also benefit from the co-location of facilities at key hub airports to improve connectivity and access to each carrier’s airport lounges for premium passengers. For more information visit: www.virginatlantic.com  or www.virginholidays.co.uk