Alaska Airlines’ appearance and grooming policy has been through a lot of changes in the last few years, and it’s the result of campaigning by long-serving flight attendant Justin Wetherell, who identifies as non-binary, and wanted the option to wear different uniform pieces based on his gender identity.
Following a legal battle, in 2023, Alaska Airlines dropped its longstanding policy that flight attendants had to choose between a ‘masculine’ or ‘feminine’ look. That means that flight attendants can choose whatever uniform piece they want from the full collection, and grooming policies apply to everyone.
For example, before Alaska Airlines entered into the consent agreement to end the lawsuit, non-binary flight attendants who were born male could select the feminine uniform collection, but then had to comply with the female grooming standards.
Now, there is a single gender neutral appearance and grooming standard. That doesn’t mean that Alaska Airlines doesn’t have very specific standards, though. The airline requires and expects its flight attendants to be well-groomed and the uniform worn to the required standard.
Tattoos: The Specific Policy
Alaska’s tattoo policy is more detailed than a blanket ban:
- No visible tattoos on the face, front of neck, or chest
- One tattoo the size of a quarter or smaller is permitted per hand, and it can’t be covered by a uniform piece
- One tattoo is permitted per arm, leg, foot, or behind the ear; tattoos behind the ear are only acceptable if they’re not visible when someone is looking directly at you
- Tattoos may only be covered by a uniform piece or approved jewelry/watch.
- Bandages, makeup, and compression sleeves can not be used to cover a tattoo.
Hair
Natural hair colors only. Hair can be worn up or down. Various hairstyles, including braids are permitted.
Nails
A single shade of a matte color, along with French Tips, ombre, and natural, is all permitted. Nail art, glitter, neon, and varying colors are not permitted. Nails should be kept clean and presentable.
Makeup
Makeup is considered to be gender-neutral. Warm tones are permitted for eye shadow and lips. Glitter and neon are not permitted.
