Better tell certain O2 mask manufacturers. I’ve seen some 121 approved masks that have a warning to the effect of “facial hair will not allow a good seal.”

No facial hair is a standard requirement for anyone working in a chemical plant, oil refinery, etc. An O2 mask fit test and training for a SCOTT air pack (like Fire Fighters wear) is mandatory once a year. Even a contract construction or maintenance worker entering an operating plant is required to shave or is forbidden from entering.

Same for wearing EABs on submarines


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Yeah it seems pretty obvious that if there is hair, regardless of how fine it may be, would allow a gap.

The frog men wore beards. Crews had beard contests during long underway periods. Also, it's not an O2 mask, so your face won't spontaneously combust because your beard is O2 saturated.

I think the face seal issue is over blown. But I wouldn't want an oxygen saturated beard in a fire.

The IBM look from the 60s is long gone. Corporate America pretty much across-the-board now doesn’t wear suits and ties. Also the flying public does not care. They hardly ever even look at or notice the pilots. Most corporate pilots don’t wear the historic uniform. The best option is probably a mix of something more casual but still the uniform.

Yep. Also got to remember, beards are not a problem anywhere else in the world.

@Tom, which one represents your "true, inner self"?

I don't reckon I should be surprised anymore, but it seems that threads about pilot vanity typically go on and on.

And on.

Ad nauseum.

Self assessment: Are you vain? Is vanity a virtue or a fault?

Just sayin'.

And askin'