British Airways has announced that it is going gender-neutral. Male staff in the cabin crew now can wear makeup and piercings like earrings.
An internal memo said that all uniformed employees are now allowed to wear mascara, false eyelashes, and nail polish. Men are also permitted to have man buns and handbags from Monday, reported The Guardian.
The airline has asked its employees to "be bold, be proud, and be yourself." The memo read the company hopes that the guidelines will be "embraced by everyone regardless of gender, gender identity, ethnicity, background, culture, sexual identity."
British Airways is trying to update its image through a branding campaign titled "a British original". The new image is aimed at celebrating people, customers, and the country.
Another report in The Independent, the airline has asked employees to go for a "natural look" using "subtle shades" of makeup. The statement from British Airways said: "We are proud of all of our colleagues at British Airways and we are committed to an inclusive working environment. We have worked with our people to create updated guidelines for grooming, beauty, and accessories, allowing our colleagues to bring the best, most authentic version of themselves to work every day."
Another airline Virgin Atlantic recently took similar steps and updated its policies to reflect the diversity of modern society. In September 2022, the airline said its crew can choose their uniform. The company has gotten rid of gendered workwear. The airline said it wants to champion individuality.