What is an Airlines Allow Pilots Beards?
Airlines Allow Pilots Beards is an aviation industry regulation concerning facial hair on pilots. Specifically, it refers to the policy of allowing commercial airline pilots to wear facial hair such as a beard, moustache, sideburns, or goatee. This kind of facial hair was traditionally considered too dangerous due to potential interference with airline equipment or gases or odors outside of the cockpit. Therefore, the regulation of allowing beards among pilots has been regulated and monitored.
History of the Regulation
The history of this regulation is divided into two broad eras: before and after the year 2000. Before the year 2000, regulations with respect to permitted facial hair were quite strict. Pilots were only allowed to have fully clean shaven faces, as anything else was deemed a serious hazard.
However, as technology advanced and standards grew more stringent, the regulation loosened up. Now, airlines can allow pilots to have some non-excessive facial hair, as long as it does not interfere with the cockpit. The airlines still have the right to enforce regulations on facial hair if they deem it necessary.
Pros and Cons of the Regulation
One of the main pros of allowing pilots to have facial hair is that it can make them more comfortable and happy while performing their duties. The hair can also act as a safety mechanism in that it can prevent glasses from slipping off the face. Additionally, some believe that certain beards and moustaches can make pilots look more distinguished, adding a certain air of authority.
On the other hand, there are also risks that come with allowing beards among pilots. If not properly maintained, the facial hair can cause problems with equipment, such as a mask or headset. It can also block airflow into the cockpit, resulting in poor ventilation and increased gas and/or odors that can be dangerous for the pilot and other crew members.
Conclusion
The regulation for Airlines Allow Pilots Beards is a relatively new policy. It was heavily regulated prior to the new millennium, but now airlines can, within reason, allow certain non-excessive facial hair among pilots. Though this can make pilots more comfortable and distinguished, it also comes with certain risks. Therefore, it is important for airlines to be aware of the pros and cons before allowing beards in the cockpit.
