Before the 1979 Revolution, Iran Air (known as the “Homa”) was one of the fastest-growing and most prestigious airlines in the world. Its flight attendants were the “face” of a modernizing, cosmopolitan Iran, and the role was considered a highly coveted, elite career for young Iranian women.
During the 1960s and 70s, Iran Air stewardesses were international fashion icons. Their look reflected the “Jet Age” glamour seen in Western carriers like Pan Am or Air France. Uniforms typically featured knee-length skirts, tailored blazers, and pillbox hats. Many uniforms were designed by high-end fashion houses to ensure a chic, professional appearance. There were strict standards for hair (often styled in bouffants or sleek bobs), makeup, and poise. Before 1979, there was no requirement for the hijab; stewardesses wore their hair uncovered.
Becoming a flight attendant for Iran Air was extremely competitive, often requiring a high level of education and fluency in multiple languages. Many attendants were educated in Europe or the U.S. and spoke English, French, and Persian fluently. They were trained to provide world-class “Persian hospitality.” During this era, Iran Air was famous for its luxury, particularly on its non-stop flights between Tehran and New York. Stewardesses were viewed as ambassadors of Iranian culture and modernization. They traveled the world, which was a rare privilege and a sign of significant social mobility.
The airline used the Homa (a mythical Persian griffin) as its symbol, and the flight attendants were central to this branding. On long-haul flights (using the then-cutting-edge Boeing 747SPs), attendants served gourmet meals and fine wines, mirroring the lifestyle of the Iranian upper class of the time.
After the 1979 Revolution, the role changed overnight. Uniforms were replaced with modest tunics and headscarves (hijabs), and the cosmopolitan, “Westernized” image of the Homa stewardess was officially dismantled to align with the new Islamic Republic’s values.
0 comments:
Post a Comment