British Airways scraps controversial staff coffee ban after backlash

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British Airways reversed a recently introduced rule that banned pilots and flight attendants from drinking beverages like coffee and tea in public while wearing their uniforms. The change came after strong opposition from employees and unions.

The airline issued new rules on September 11th stating that crew members should only drink water in public, and even then, they were asked to do so subtly. All other beverages were to be consumed only in staff break rooms or restrooms.

The airline also made stricter rules about how employees looked, including details like hairstyles, nail polish, and even what they wore while traveling to and from work. However, after receiving a lot of complaints, the airline quickly reversed some of these new rules, just days after announcing them.

The original guidelines prohibited British Airways crew from drinking coffee in public while in uniform

Brewing controversy and the quick clamp‑down

According to AviationSource, British Airways cabin crew unions quickly protested the new rules, explaining that long work shifts might not allow for breaks in the specified rest areas.

Employees felt the new rules didn’t consider their fundamental needs or well-being. Allowing time for breaks during travel and airport waits, including access to something as simple as coffee, would have been a valuable benefit.

On September 13, 2025, British Airways sent an internal message clarifying that a previous policy had been misinterpreted as a complete ban on drinks. The airline confirmed that crew members are now permitted to drink beverages like coffee and tea while relaxing in cafes or at the gate.

Drinking while walking through terminals remains discouraged rather than strictly prohibited.

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2025-09-15 16:48