For many people, wearing glasses is a necessity, not an option. But if you’re aspiring to become a cabin crew member, you might wonder if this could be a hurdle in your career path. The idea of flying high and interacting with passengers from around the world is exciting, but does your eyewear fit into this dream?
Can cabin crew wear glasses?
Let’s clear up the mystery and get into what you need to know about wearing glasses as a flight attendant.
Yes, you can wear glasses – with some conditions
The short answer is yes, cabin crew can wear glasses. However, airlines do have specific guidelines regarding eyewear. Most airlines require that your glasses be of a simple, professional style, avoiding overly trendy frames that might distract from the uniform’s overall look.
The glasses should also be in neutral colours like black, brown, or metal tones. Some airlines may even ask that glasses be non-reflective, so be sure to check the specifics with the airline youโre applying to.
Vision requirements are key
While you can wear glasses, itโs important to meet the vision requirements set by the airline. Most airlines require that your corrected vision (with glasses or contact lenses) meets a certain standard, often around 20/30 or 20/40 in each eye.
Before your application, youโll likely undergo a medical examination to ensure you meet these vision standards. This is crucial because cabin crew members need to be able to read safety manuals, passenger tickets, and emergency signs clearly, even in low-light situations.
Contacts are an alternative
If you prefer not to wear glasses, contact lenses are also a widely accepted option. In fact, some airlines may encourage contacts over glasses for a sleeker, more uniform appearance. However, wearing contact lenses on long flights can sometimes lead to discomfort due to dry cabin air.
If you choose contacts, itโs a good idea to keep a pair of glasses in your cabin bag just in case your eyes need a break during a long-haul flight. Be mindful of hygiene, too – clean your lenses thoroughly to avoid eye infections.
Safety considerations
One of the key concerns for airlines is safety. In the rare event of an emergency, cabin crew need to be able to perform their duties without hindrance. For those wearing glasses, this means ensuring that your eyewear is secure and wonโt easily fall off.
If youโre someone who often pushes your glasses up your nose or worries about them slipping, you might want to consider getting a pair that fits snugly or using contact lenses. Itโs also worth noting that some airlines might require a backup pair of glasses to be kept in your carry-on, just in case.
The airlineโs image
Airlines are very conscious of their image and how their cabin crew represents their brand. This is why there are strict grooming standards, which extend to eyewear. While your ability to see clearly is non-negotiable, how you achieve that must align with the airlineโs standards for professionalism and appearance.
Youโll often find that airlines have a grooming manual that specifies what kind of eyewear is acceptable. Itโs always best to review these guidelines carefully before your interview or first day on the job.
Final thoughts
If youโve been concerned about whether wearing glasses might prevent you from pursuing a career as a flight attendant, rest assured that itโs not a dealbreaker. With the right frames and by meeting the necessary vision requirements, you can confidently step into this exciting career.
Do you have more questions about what it takes to become a flight attendant? Or maybe youโre already working in the industry and have some insights to share? Weโd love to hear from you! Comment below or join our cabin crew forum, where experienced flight attendants are ready to answer your questions and support you on your journey to the skies.
FAQ – Can Cabin Crew Wear Glasses?
Can you be cabin crew with bad eyesight?
While you don’t need perfect vision to be a cabin crew member, there are certain limits. Usually, your diopters need to be between +/- 4, sometimes up to 5.
Can I wear glasses for a cabin crew interview?
Absolutely! As long as they’re not overly flashy and align with the airline’s uniform guidelines, you should be good to go.
Can British Airways cabin crew wear glasses?
Yes, they can. British Airways cabin crew can wear glasses as long as they adhere to the uniform standards, which typically include moderate size, plain or unframed glasses design, and acceptable frame colours like black, brown, burgundy, tortoiseshell colour, navy blue, silver or gold metal.
What is the eye test for cabin crew?
The eye test for cabin crew usually involves checking your diopters to ensure they’re between +/- 4, sometimes up to 5. You should be able to read an N5 eye chart at 30โ50 cm, with or without corrective glasses or contacts.
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