Can cabin crew have braces? It’s one of the most common questions from aspiring flight attendants who are still going through orthodontic treatment. The short answer: it depends on the airline. Some are flexible, others are strict. Here’s what you need to know before applying.
TL;DR
- If you’re applying to strict airlines, finish treatment before applying.
- Most North American, European, and Australian airlines allow cabin crew to have braces.
- Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines do not allow braces or clear aligners.
- Braces must not affect speech clarity or professional appearance.
- Clear aligners like Invisalign are usually fine where braces are accepted.
Airlines That Allow Cabin Crew to Wear Braces
American Airlines
American Airlines lets flight attendants wear braces as long as they’re silver or clear. Braces won’t hurt your chances, but your speech should stay clear. Invisalign is also fine.
Delta Air Lines
Delta allows braces, but they shouldn’t stand out. Clear aligners or subtle metal braces work best. As long as you speak clearly, braces won’t stop you from getting hired.
United Airlines
United Airlines is relaxed about braces. They don’t have specific rules against them. Whether you’re wearing traditional metal braces or clear aligners, United is fine as long as your speech and appearance stay professional.
Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic has no issues with braces or clear aligners. As long as you look tidy and speak clearly, you’re good to go.
Lufthansa
Lufthansa doesn’t mind braces either. They focus on how you treat passengers more than your smile. Metal braces or aligners aren’t a problem.
Air Canada
Air Canada allows braces for cabin crew members. Keep them neat, maintain clear speech, and the airline won’t have any concerns.
Air France-KLM
Both Air France and KLM accept flight attendants with braces. Metal braces or clear aligners are fine. Just keep a clean look and speak clearly.
Qantas
Qantas doesn’t mind braces at all. The airline is flexible, as long as you maintain a professional look and can communicate well.
Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand lets cabin crew wear braces without restrictions. Just stay professional and clearly spoken, and braces won’t affect your chances.
Airlines That Do NOT Allow Cabin Crew to Wear Braces
Emirates
Emirates has strict appearance rules. Braces or aligners aren’t allowed. You must finish your orthodontic treatment before you start training.
Qatar Airways
Like Emirates, Qatar Airways doesn’t allow braces. Your teeth must be completely braces-free before joining. Even clear aligners usually aren’t permitted.
Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines doesn’t accept braces. They expect cabin crew to have a natural, braces-free smile. Complete your treatment first, or you won’t get hired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cabin crew have braces during training?
Yes, if the airline allows braces. Most Western airlines don’t mind, but Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines require a braces-free smile before training.
Are clear aligners like Invisalign allowed for flight attendants?
Yes, many airlines accept Invisalign, especially if it doesn’t affect your speech. However, strict airlines like Emirates and Qatar usually don’t allow any orthodontic devices at all.
Can you go to a cabin crew interview with braces on?
You can if you’re applying to an airline that accepts braces. If you’re targeting Emirates, Qatar, or Singapore Airlines, you should complete treatment before applying.
Will braces affect my chances of getting hired as a flight attendant?
Only at airlines with strict grooming rules. For most airlines in the US, UK, Europe, and Australia, braces won’t hurt your chances if your appearance and communication are professional.