Qantas under fire for proposed ban on facial hair for pilots
In a move that has sparked debate within the aviation industry, Australian airline Qantas is reviewing feedback on a potential beard ban for its pilots, including those at Qantas Link, its regional subsidiary. The airline expects to make a decision on the matter within the next few weeks.
The proposed ban would extend to QantasLink, Qantas' regional arm, and follows findings from QinetiQ, a British defense consultancy, which suggested that facial hair could compromise the seal of oxygen masks in emergencies.
However, the proposal has faced criticism from the Australian Federation of Air Pilots (AFAP), which argues that the policy shows a lack of "proper consultation with employees" and fails to demonstrate "respect for diverse workforces." The AFAP has not specified whether it supports the QantasLink beard ban, which also affects Qantas' regional arm.
Professor John French from Embry-Riddle University has also questioned the validity of the QinetiQ report, stating that it relies on outdated military or industrial settings. In contrast, a 2024 scientific study by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University involving 24 participants found "no evidence that facial hair caused mask leaks, hypoxia, or chemicals to affect performance."
Qantas opened a formal consultation from 15 July to 12 August to gather feedback from pilots on the proposed policy. The airline has also stated that it is asking QinetiQ to review the Embry-Riddle study.
It is worth noting that the Royal Australian Air Force scrapped its own beard ban in late 2022, allowing beards as long as they are neat. Other major carriers, including Virgin Australia, Emirates, Etihad, and Cathay Pacific, also allow tidily kept beards among their crews.
Professor French also noted that wearing glasses could pose a more substantial risk and is more likely to interfere with the oxygen mask seal than facial hair. Despite this, no information is provided about the stance of these major carriers regarding the Qantas beard ban policy.
As the decision approaches, the debate continues, with many questioning the necessity of the proposed ban and the potential impact on Qantas' diverse workforce. The airline has yet to provide any information about changes in the safety concerns related to oxygen mask effectiveness in emergencies.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
