Flight attendants must balance safety compliance with customer-facing professionalism. Historically, the airline industry maintained strict appearance codes, sometimes viewing corrective eyewear as a distraction. Modern standards reflect a more practical approach, recognizing that clear vision is a functional necessity for performing safety-sensitive duties. The emphasis has shifted from purely aesthetic concerns to mandating a neat, professional presentation that supports the attendant’s primary role as a safety officer. Appearance regulations today govern the style of eyewear rather than prohibiting its use entirely.
The Current Standard for Flight Attendant Eyewear
The definitive answer to whether flight attendants can wear glasses is yes, as this practice is widely permitted across major global airlines. This allowance represents a significant shift from the more restrictive grooming policies of past decades. Today, airlines accept that corrective lenses are a medical necessity that must be accommodated for staff to function clearly. The general policy is that any form of vision correction is acceptable as long as it adheres to the company’s strict professional appearance guidelines. This acceptance is rooted in the practical requirement for all crew members to maintain sharp visual acuity for reading safety checklists, identifying emergency equipment, and quickly spotting potential hazards.
Professional Appearance and Eyeglass Standards
When glasses are worn, their appearance is subject to specific regulations designed to maintain a sophisticated, business-like presentation. Airlines mandate that frames must be conservative and moderate in size, avoiding oversized or overly trendy designs. Acceptable frame colors are typically limited to professional, neutral shades such as black, brown, silver, gold, navy blue, or classic tortoiseshell patterns. Crew members are prohibited from wearing frames with harsh, vibrant colors or excessive embellishments. Lenses must be clean, free of scratches, and often non-reflective to prevent glare that compromises their professional look.
Understanding Minimum Vision Requirements
Beyond the appearance of the frames, all prospective flight attendants must satisfy specific medical standards for visual acuity. Regulatory bodies require applicants to demonstrate a minimum level of corrected sight, typically 20/40 or better in each eye, though some airlines may require 20/30. This ensures the attendant can perform safety-critical tasks, such as reading cabin instruments and identifying emergency exits. Airlines also assess color perception using tests like the Ishihara plates to check for color blindness, which is necessary for accurately reading warning lights. An applicant whose vision cannot be corrected to the required level will not pass the mandatory medical examination. Attendants are often required to carry a spare pair of glasses or contacts.
Contacts Versus Glasses: Practical Workplace Considerations
The unique environment of an aircraft cabin presents specific challenges that influence the choice between contact lenses and glasses. Cabin air often has low humidity, which can cause significant discomfort and dryness for contact lens wearers during a long flight. This low-moisture environment can lead to irritation, redness, or increased risk of eye infection. Many flight attendants switch to glasses for long-haul duty periods to mitigate dryness and ensure comfort. Glasses provide a more stable and low-maintenance option. Attendants are strongly advised to always have a backup pair of glasses available in their kit, which is necessary if contacts become lost or irritated while airborne.
Rules Regarding Sunglasses and Safety Eyewear
Rules governing non-corrective or auxiliary eyewear are strictly enforced to maintain a professional appearance. Sunglasses are generally permitted only when an attendant is outside the aircraft or during boarding and deplaning when exposed to bright sunlight. They must be removed immediately upon entering the cabin to allow for clear visual communication with passengers. Like regular eyeglasses, sunglasses must adhere to the same conservative style standards, featuring professional frame colors and avoiding mirrored or brightly tinted lenses. Specialized safety eyewear, such as protective goggles, may be required for specific tasks, like handling concentrated cleaning agents or during emergency training.