Flight attendants at Korean Air are stepping up in their quest for more comfortable work attire. In a recent report by The Korean Times, it was revealed that female flight attendants at the airline are lobbying for the option to swap out their traditional shoes for sneakers while carrying out their in-flight responsibilities. With Korean Air currently undergoing a rebranding process and a potential uniform overhaul following its acquisition of Asiana Airlines, the cabin crew is pushing for practicality in their work attire.

During a press conference held by the Korean Public Service and Transport Workers’ Union, unionized flight attendants from Korean Air and Asiana Airlines highlighted the physical demands of their job, emphasizing the need for more ergonomic uniform options. “Flight attendants in the cabin take over 15,000 steps a day and work on their feet for more than 14 hours,” the unionized members stated. “Unfortunately, our current uniforms and footwear do not cater to the demands of our job.”

Responding to Korean Air’s assertion that the existing uniforms uphold the company’s "dignity", the flight attendants argued that prioritizing functionality and comfort serves as a greater testament to the company’s values. Despite the ongoing request, a Korean Air spokesperson cautioned that any modifications to the uniform policy may be delayed due to the ongoing merger with Asiana Airlines.

In contrast to strict standards observed by Asian and Middle Eastern carriers regarding flight attendants’ appearance, some European and North American airlines have adopted more relaxed guidelines. For instance, SAS, a Scandinavian carrier, recently announced a policy allowing visible tattoos and permitting employees to wear sneakers while on duty. Similarly, airlines like Virgin Atlantic and Alaska Air have embraced a more casual approach to uniform standards.

The conversation around flight attendants’ attire reflects a broader shift within the aviation industry towards prioritizing practicality and employee well-being. As airlines navigate changes in ownership and branding, the call for updated uniform policies resonates with a growing need for workplace comfort and functionality. The debate surrounding footwear choices may seem minor, but it underscores the evolving landscape of airline culture and employee empowerment.