Air Baltic: green light for tattoos and piercings for cabin crew
What is decorum and is the concept changing? It used to be that flight attendants had to convey a general sense of [...]
AirBaltic
What is decorum and is the concept changing? There was a time when flight attendants had to Convey a general sense of tranquility and security. This was through a look aimed at uniting stewardesses and stewards. Any variation or eccentricity whatsoever could disturb that placid and fragile balance. However, times change and societies evolve. Over the years there has inevitably been more room for personalization in the cabin. The staff obviously wears a uniform, but what this does not cover, such as hair, face, arms and hands, is useful playground for highlighting one's uniqueness. This means hair styles of one's choice, makeup of various kinds, nail polish, rings and bracelets. Important first steps, now long gone, had, however, left one element out of the discussion: tattoos.
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Tattoos and piercings for hostesses and stewards
Generations change and with them the viewpoint on elements that were once pointed at in a bad way. Such is the case with tattoos and piercings, which our grandparents still regard with suspicion. However, it is a free form of expression, and it should be greeted with pleasant surprise the Air Baltic's decision to allow its cabin crew to express themselves as they see fit.
The news has gone around the world, arousing no small amount of curiosity. Decorating one's body is not the same as being unprofessional, and such stances as that of the well-known carrier help combat the hateful stigma.
The Watson portal points out that Air Baltic has entered into a partnership with Lufthansa., which will lead her to operating on behalf of Swiss. The Latvian carrier emphasized that as of now there will be more flexibility on board. Ground staff, cabin crew, and pilots will no longer have to hide tattoos and piercings. The ban on certain haircuts or discolorations, which some might call "outside the norm," also falls. The concept of individuality is important, and having to conceal oneself in the name of an outdated worldview is unthinkable in 2022.
Here at airBaltic we always encourage our people to be themselves. Starting today, our cabin crew, pilots and ground personnel can show their tattoos, piercings and wear different hairstyles while performing their duties ✈️ https://t.co/1urSj7VIbo pic.twitter.com/Bv1C95GSTp
- airBaltic (@airBaltic) August 1, 2022
Air Baltic looks to the future
Air Baltic's personnel director, Alina Aronberga, explained the carrier's decision in an official statement, "Until now we have applied the same rules as most airlines. These rules have been significantly eased so that our employees can demonstrate their individuality in the form of tattoos, piercings and hairstyles, while proudly wearing our uniforms."
The travel industry is facing a period of crisis from a staffing standpoint. Strikes have characterized the summer months and resulted in numerous delays, postponements and cancellations. Looking at the company's move from this perspective, one might think of it as a real marketing strategy. A way to incentivize new people to consider this area of work.
As mentioned, Air Baltic will operate in the name of Swiss for some routes but this does not mean that the latter will adopt the same staffing guidelines. In fact, a company spokesperson stressed that piercings and tattoos are in no case a discriminatory element in hiring (barring tattoos on the face and neck, which are difficult to cover, and piercings that cannot be removed and in view). During working hours, however, they must be compulsorily covered.
