Originally Posted by
SkyHigh
Maintaining a professional image is an important part of professionalism. It might sound silly but if a pilot drags through the terminal with his tie loose, jacket hanging out of a back pack that is carried by one loose strap on the shoulder while listening to an MP3 player it gives a bad impression.
That stuff might be cool while walking between classes at the U but by the time you reach an airline it is time to put away the child like image. Pilots wear pressed and uncomfortable clothes that are completely tightened and buttoned up. Jacket and hat are on and straight. They carry their belongings in a black bag with wheels on it. They walk with perfect rigid posture and always are aware of their actions and behaviors while in the public view and in uniform.
Skyhigh
Sounds like the military. Sky is right in this case. The image you portray and your actions are both important parts of professionalism. If you don't understand this then you will find every excuse in the book to bolster your claim that actions such as the ones mentioned throughout this thread don't impinge on your professionalism or the public's perception. If you do understand this - please continue to act and portray yourself in such a manner. Many of us thank you for it and respect you and the job you do.
For what it is worth - I've been traveling airlines a lot recently and I have NOT seen these supposed hair gelled, MP3 wearing, backpack toting pilots people are complaining about; so thanks again. Best of luck to all.
USMCFLYR