Common Airline Tattoo Policy Most airlines have a similar policy when it comes to tattoos. They allow pilot tattoos as long as they are not visible while on duty and do not contain any offensive content. This means that any tattoos on the hands, neck, or face must be covered up while on duty.

The policy regarding tattoos for pilots is determined by individual airlines rather than a universal aviation law, though the trend in 2026 is leaning toward greater inclusivity. Historically, most commercial airlines prohibited any visible tattoos, requiring pilots to cover them with long sleeves, makeup, or bandages. Today, many major carriers have relaxed these rules. For example, some airlines now allow small, non-offensive tattoos on the arms or legs as long as they are "tasteful" and not on the face, neck, or hands. Air New Zealand was a pioneer in this shift, allowing visible "Tā Moko" and other non-offensive tattoos to reflect cultural heritage and individuality. United Airlines and Southwest have also updated their appearance guidelines to be more modern. However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) still requires pilots to maintain a "professional appearance," which remains subjective. For aspiring pilots, the safest bet is still to keep tattoos in locations that a standard uniform can easily conceal, as international carriers in more conservative regions may still maintain strict "no-visible-tattoo" mandates during recruitment.