Allegiant Air Tattoo Policy in 2023 (Flight Attendants & Pilots)

You’d think there wouldn’t be any businesses that discriminate against people with tattoos given how far tattoo acceptance has come in the last 20 years.

Sadly, there are still plenty of them, with aviation ranking close to the top.

Allegiant Air keeps a staunch position when it comes to US-based carriers.

The most recent Allegiant Air tattoo policy, which we’ll go over below, should clear all the doubts if you’ve been thinking about a career as a flight attendant or pilot.

Allegiant tattoo policy highlights

Allegiant Air Tattoo Policy – All You Need to Know

The news isn’t good for many tattooed individuals who want to fly with Allegiant Air.

Currently, the airline forbids its employees to have tattoos that are visible when they are in uniform. Unfortunately, because of how rigorous the policy is, even very small tattoos are not permitted, and they cannot be concealed by makeup or a band-aid (some airlines are okay with this).

The crew uniform for men and women is obviously different. The tattoo restrictions are placed differently as a result.

Allowed tattoo areas at Allegiant
Currently-restricted tattoo areas at Allegiant

As shown in the image above, cabin and cockpit crew members of both genders are barred from having tattoos on their hands, lower arms, heads, or necks. Additionally, ladies must be tattoo-free from their thighs down.

As of now, Allegiant doesn’t set any limits regarding the number of tattoos.

What About Shirts With Long Sleeves?

There is still hope even if you have tattoos on the lower parts of your arm(s).

You can choose between short sleeves or long sleeves when working at Allegiant Air. If you choose the first option, as long as your tattoos do not extend past the cuff of your shirt, they will be concealed.

Allegiant flight attendant
Allegiant flight attendant

You must realize that this does not ensure employment with the airline. You might be questioned about your tattoos throughout the interview process, and management has the right to make the final decision.

To put it another way, you’ll probably need to cuff your sleeves at some time, showing off your tattoos which, again, is not allowed.

Not All US Airlines Are So Strict

Most US airlines share exactly the same approach as Allegiant (eg. American Airlines, Delta, Hawaiian Airlines).

However, there are airlines more tolerant of pilots and flight attendants who have tattoos. Here are a few noteworthy instances:

  • Minor visible tattoos are acceptable on Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, provided they are tasteful and do not surpass the size of the uniform badge
  • SkyWest evaluates visible tattoos on an individual basis, taking into account their size, significance, and placement

Reasons Behind the Tough Stance

You might wonder – why are airlines so strict when it comes to tattoos?

The main explanation has to do with the professional appearance that the airline wants to maintain. And, in all honesty, it’s not entirely unjustified.

People flying with Allegiant (or any other airline) want to see a clean-cut individual when they board the plane. This is the image that management wants to uphold, and they’re not ready to budge on it.

It’s worth noting that the airline industry is still quite conservative. Many businesses in this field prefer their employees to have a “traditional” look.

This might change in the future as tattoos become more and more mainstream. For now, though, don’t expect any US airline to be overly tattoo-friendly.

If you’re looking for a career in aviation and have visible tattoos, the number of options isn’t that great yet.