Just days after being announced, British Airways' coffee ban was lifted!
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Civil Aviation Resources Network, September 15, 2025: British Airways has withdrawn its controversial uniform and code of conduct following strong opposition from the union representing pilots and cabin crew. British Airways had previously attempted to ban crew from drinking coffee in public and restrict uniform use, a move that drew widespread criticism. (Related: This Prominent Airline Rules: No Coffee Drinking in Public for Cabin Crew!)
Just days after announcing its new appearance guidelines, British Airways backed down. The unions argued that these policies were impractical and unfair, especially during long duty days that often exceeded 12 hours.
The original guidelines required crew to consume food and beverages, with the exception of water, only in dedicated staff lounges or dining areas away from public view. Even drinking water had to be done "discreetly." This meant that crew were prohibited from eating and drinking in public areas of the airport, a restriction that the unions immediately rejected.
British Airways pilots and cabin crew noted that they rarely had access to designated lounges after completing check-in during their shifts. Given the long working hours and limited opportunities for proper rest, British Airways' new rules were deemed both unrealistic and overly restrictive.
British Airways clarified in an internal memo that it did not completely ban eating and drinking, but the wording had caused confusion and "created the impression of a strict prohibition."
BA later confirmed that crew members could sit in the cafe or gate area during breaks, but continued to discourage eating and drinking while walking around the terminal.
Another controversy concerned its uniform policy for crew members commuting and flying as passengers. BA initially required employees not to wear uniforms unless they were on duty on a flight.
Although regulators had required crew members to remove identifiable uniform items when not on duty, BA claimed this conflicted with its brand standards. The airline's solution was to completely ban crew members from wearing uniforms while commuting and flying as passengers.
Unions criticized this move as impractical. Crew members often need to move quickly between flights or lack changing facilities, making uniforms the most efficient option. Under pressure, BA temporarily suspended the ban to explore a compromise.