In a significant move towards greater inclusivity, the low-cost carrier AirAsia has announced a major update to its cabin crew uniform policy. The airline will now permit all female cabin crew members to wear the hijab as part of their official attire while on duty, should they wish to do so.
A Policy Evolution for a Global Airline
While AirAsia crew have previously worn the hijab on select routes, such as flights to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, this new policy extends that flexibility across its entire network. The tailored hijab and trousers option will use the same design currently worn by crew operating on Jeddah routes, while the airline's signature red uniform will otherwise remain largely unchanged.
The aim is for the updated uniform to be fully implemented by Ramadan in 2026, which falls in February and March of that year. AirAsia's leadership has framed the change as a natural evolution for a growing global airline.
Leadership Embraces Diverse Workforce
Bo Lingam, CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group, stated he was proud that the update reflects the airline's expansion and its diverse workforce. "Our uniforms have always reflected professionalism, safety and comfort," Lingam said. "This evolution builds on that foundation by giving our people the confidence to represent AirAsia in ways that align with their beliefs."
Suhaila Hassan, the group head of cabin crew department, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the diverse backgrounds of the airline's employees, known as 'Allstars'. "This latest policy reflects that diverse and dynamic spirit that defines AirAsia," Hassan said. She confirmed that the airline will continue gathering feedback from staff on the detailed design and implementation before the roll-out.
AirAsia's Expanding Network
The uniform update coincides with continued network expansion for the airline group. AirAsia operates in five countries: Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, it now connects more than 130 destinations with a fleet of over 200 aircraft.
The airline recently announced several new routes. Through its Thai affiliates, it has launched:
- Four weekly flights from Bangkok Don Mueang to Sendai, Japan.
- Four weekly flights from Bangkok Don Mueang to Almaty, Kazakhstan.
- Four weekly flights from Bangkok Don Mueang to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Four weekly flights from Chiang Mai to Udon Thani within Thailand.
- New routes from Bangkok Don Mueang to Luang Prabang and Hanoi.
This policy change positions AirAsia alongside other international carriers that have adopted similar inclusive uniform standards, recognising the importance of accommodating cultural and religious practices within a modern, global workforce.
