It seems absurd that airlines must adhere to such stringent policies regarding pregnant Cabin Crew. Thankfully, Singapore Airlines is finally correcting this.
The flag carrier declared in a statement that they will not follow their former policy of terminating pregnant Cabin Crew. While expecting, the cabin crew must work from the ground; however, after giving birth, they can resume flying.
Change in policy
The policy requiring female members of the Cabin Crew to resign was roundly criticized as discriminatory against women. In July, Singapore Airlines overturned its decision regarding the expectant Cabin Crew.
outdated and prejudiced
Women in the cabin crew who became pregnant while employed by Singapore Airlines were expected to announce their pregnancy and take unpaid time off. Despite the airline’s claim that they had “gone,” the women were forced to resign after giving delivery.
The Singapore Airlines returning crew program would require the new mothers to reapply if they wanted to resume their employment. A job wasn’t a guarantee.
Despite criticism and censure from the public about inequality, this approach was maintained for more than ten years.
Lack of personnel for the cabin crew
The Covid-19 outbreak had a significant negative influence on the aviation sector. As a result, airlines are rushing to hire enough personnel to guarantee efficient operations. Other airlines might follow suit and start assessing their rules to see if they’re a desirable option for potential cabin crew.
With the introduction of the new Singapore Airlines, expected cabin crew can now anticipate receiving ground assignments. They could involve administration, client feedback, event planning, or content development, and they will run between three and nine months.
Not yet paid
Cabin Crew members who are pregnant must still take unpaid time off. Until their maternity leave pay kicks in, ladies can work paid ground jobs, though. Also, cabin crew members who are expecting can now resume their jobs once their children are born.
What actions do other Asian airlines have?
For their pregnant Cabin Crew, Korean Air, and Asiana Airlines provide up to two years of paid leave. Japan Airlines provides the equivalent paid groundwork for expecting moms as well as post-delivery guaranteed flying duty.
Progress, but more change is required
For the expecting Cabin Crew, it’s a positive move, but activists contend that it’s not enough. They believe that rather than needing to apply, which is time-consuming and needlessly difficult, Cabin Crew should be assigned ground tasks.
The dress code and uniform policy of Singapore Airlines were a further source of worry. Strict size standards could provide problems for new moms returning to flying duty because pregnant women’s bodies alter.
Several airlines around the world have started to loosen their tight standards for the appearance of the cabin crew. Recently, Virgin Airlines started allowing tattoos and even gave their cabin crew gender-neutral uniforms.
Prospects for cabin crew
At airlines all around the world, the glitzy Cabin Crew stereotype is still upheld. Yet a shift is coming.
Airlines are implementing more contemporary policies as a result of their recognition of the shift towards inclusivity and equality. Finally, members of the Cabin Crew won’t have to be concerned about losing their jobs if they decide to establish a family.
