Travelers flying with Virgin Atlantic will notice a refreshed approach to crew attire, reflecting a bold move towards greater inclusivity and self-expression.
Aligning with its ongoing “Be Yourself” initiative, Virgin Atlantic has redefined its gender expression policy, granting pilots, flight attendants, and ground team members the freedom to select either the signature red or burgundy uniforms—regardless of gender identity.
Historically, uniforms were assigned based on gender—men in burgundy, women in iconic red. Now, all staff can choose the color that best resonates with their identity. Additionally, trousers and tailored suits are available to everyone, and male-identifying crew are welcome to wear skirts, further breaking traditional norms. These elevated uniforms remain the creative vision of celebrated designer Vivienne Westwood.
Virgin Atlantic’s leadership emphasizes its commitment to empowering staff individuality, stating that allowing employees to dress in a way that authentically reflects their gender identity promotes a more welcoming environment for both crew and guests.
Pronoun options have also been added to employee name badges, supporting a culture of respect and recognition for diverse identities.
Recent policy enhancements include lifting restrictions on visible tattoos and removing obligatory makeup requirements for female crew, positioning Virgin Atlantic as a pioneer in airline workplace inclusivity.
The airline’s reservation system now accommodates travelers with gender-neutral passports, enabling the use of the title Mx and selection of U or X gender markers on bookings. This option is currently available for passengers from countries including the US, India, and Pakistan, though it is not yet accessible to UK-based travelers.
All team members participate in comprehensive training designed to ensure that every guest feels valued and respected, regardless of barriers to LGBTQ+ equality.
Founded by Sir Richard Branson in 1984, Virgin Atlantic currently serves 27 destinations across four continents. The airline’s recent entry into the SkyTeam Alliance—alongside partners such as Delta Air Lines and Air France-KLM—underscores its global ambitions and commitment to progressive values.
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