Unusual Flight Attendant Requirements: Beyond the Friendly Skies

The Overhead Bin Test: A Controversial Initiation

The Hazing Ritual

One of the more bizarre and controversial practices involved the use of overhead bins in a hazing ritual by a Chinese airline. Female flight attendants were reportedly forced into the bins by male colleagues as an initiation. The airline issued an apology and promised disciplinary action, highlighting the secretive and sometimes troubling aspects of airline culture. While such practices are not widespread, they raise questions about the treatment of cabin crew within the industry.

Height Matters: The Physical Standards

Why Height is Important

Airlines often have strict height requirements for flight attendants, typically ranging from 5 feet 2 inches to 6 feet 2 inches tall. This is not arbitrary; attendants must be able to reach overhead compartments and navigate the cabin efficiently. Emirates, for example, requires a reach of 212 centimeters on tiptoes. These standards ensure that attendants can perform their duties effectively, especially in emergency situations.

Gender-Specific Rules: Controversy in the Air

Qatar Airways' Policies

Qatar Airways once had policies that restricted female flight attendants from marrying within the first five years of employment and required them to report pregnancies, which could lead to termination. After facing backlash, the airline has since revised its stance, now offering ground jobs to pregnant attendants until they give birth. This shift reflects a broader conversation about gender equality and workers' rights in the aviation industry.

Body Art and Grooming: The Aesthetics of the Job

Tattoos and Piercings

Visible tattoos and piercings are generally not permitted among flight attendants. British Airways, for instance, requires tattoos to be covered and not visible through the uniform. This extends to specific shoe styles that expose parts of the feet, making it difficult to conceal tattoos in those areas. The grooming standards are part of the airline's image and branding, emphasizing a professional and uniform appearance.

Survival Skills: Preparing for the Worst

Training for Emergencies

Flight attendants undergo rigorous survival training to prepare for emergencies. Some airlines, like TAM Airlines, take their crew to specialized facilities to learn survival techniques, such as building shelters from plane wreckage and signaling for help. This intense preparation underscores the critical role flight attendants play in ensuring passenger safety in crisis situations.

Hair and Makeup: The Look of Professionalism

Grooming Standards

Airlines have specific grooming standards for hair and makeup. For example, British Airways requires a professional look that complements the uniform, while American Airlines has restrictions on hair fullness and style. Hawaiian Airlines does not accept styles like dreadlocks or cornrows. These standards are in place to maintain a consistent and professional image for the airline.

Jewelry: Accessorizing with Restrictions

Limited Bling

Flight attendants are often limited in the amount of jewelry they can wear. United Airlines allows a maximum of four rings, while British Airways has strict guidelines on watch designs. JetBlue is more lenient, as long as the jewelry does not clash with the uniform. These rules are designed to maintain a professional appearance and prevent distractions or safety hazards.

In conclusion, the role of a flight attendant comes with a unique set of requirements that extend beyond customer service skills. These criteria, which can include physical attributes, personal life choices, and grooming standards, are often in place to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, as well as to uphold the airline's image. While some of these requirements have evolved over time due to societal changes and criticism, they remain a defining aspect of the profession.