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QantasAustralia’s national airline, has relaxed its gender-based uniform rules, allowing employees of all genders to wear makeup, have long hair and choose to wear comfortable flat shoes.
The new policy comes as the airline prepares for a leadership change, with current chief executive Alan Joyce stepping down after 15 years in the role. The announcement also comes after pressure from Australian unions last year called on Qantas to move its “unification policy into the 21st century”.
While the airline’s uniforms have not changed, the removal of gender discrimination allows employees to align uniforms more closely with their identities. The new policy will also apply to employees at Qantas .’s low-cost airline Jetstar.
“Fashion is ever-changing and so has our style guide over the years,” Qantas said in a statement. “We pride ourselves on our diversity and keep our guidelines up to date.”
The policy overhaul allows all employees, including pilots and flight attendants, to keep their hair long, as long as it’s styled in a low ponytail or bun; it also allows all employees to apply makeup, regardless of gender. Female employees may forgo gender-conforming clothing such as high heels.
However, certain principles will remain in place. Employees must still cover visible tattoos and must wear knitwear with skirts or dresses.
Qantas’ decision to relax gender-based uniform regulations is in line with broader trends in the aviation industry. Airlines around the world are slowly realizing the importance of embracing inclusivity and meeting the growing expectations of both employees and passengers.
Last year, Virgin Atlantic Introducing sexist uniformsallow employees to express themselves authentically.
Qantas’ relaxation of gender-based uniform regulations represents an important step in promoting inclusiveness in the aviation industry.
Editor’s Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone, not those of any bank, credit card company, airline or customer chain. hotels and has not been reviewed, approved or endorsed by any of these organizations.
