"Radical Change..." Ukrainian Crew Members Ditch High Heels for Sneakers

Ukraine's low-cost airline SkyUp plans to drastically change the dress code for female flight attendants starting next month.
[Photo by Instagram capture]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Sumi] A Ukrainian airline has announced a radical change to the dress code for its female flight attendants.

According to the BBC on the 2nd (local time), Ukraine's low-cost airline SkyUp plans to change the existing uniforms of its female flight attendants starting next month.

SkyUp decided to eliminate the traditional skirts and blouses and introduce loose-fitting orange jackets and pants. High heels will also be replaced with sneakers.

However, the regulation requiring makeup remains unchanged.

SkyUp stated that through an internal survey of flight attendants, they found that female crew members were dissatisfied with tight blouses, skirts, and high heels as part of their attire.

Mariana Grigorash, who oversees marketing at SkyUp, explained, "The job of a flight attendant is not as romantic and is a tough job," adding, "We learned that female flight attendants do not want to be perceived in a sexualized or playful manner."

Current flight attendant Daria Solomenaya shared the difficulties of the existing dress code, including high heels. Daria said, "Most of my colleagues visit podiatrists because their toenails and toes have been damaged by wearing high heels." She also added that varicose veins are a common symptom.

Daria pointed out that dress-related issues become especially apparent during emergencies. She said, "It is not easy to quickly open emergency exits while wearing tight clothing during an emergency landing."

Meanwhile, some overseas airlines are also moving to change dress codes that have long been considered industry standards.

British Virgin Atlantic Airlines abolished the mandatory makeup rule for flight attendants. Japan Airlines removed the requirement to wear high heels and offered the option to wear pants instead of skirts.

Norwegian Airlines also allows flat shoes and eliminated mandatory in-flight makeup requirements.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.