TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — China Airlines is set to ease some uniform restrictions for flight attendants, the company said Thursday.

From December, flight attendants will be permitted to wear eyeglasses rather than contact lenses while on duty, reported UDN. The company is also expected to allow flight attendants to begin wearing their own athletic shoes rather than formal footwear.

The decision to permit personal eyewear was made after multiple complaints of dry cabins and flight attendants suffering from irritation and eye strain after wearing contact lenses for extended periods. The new regulations stipulate that eyeglasses should have clear lenses, with thin metal frames or a frameless design.

Allowing flight attendants to wear eyeglasses follows a similar policy change by EVA Air, which began allowing eyeglasses and other eyewear during the COVID pandemic. Currently, EVA Air will allow flight attendants to wear eyeglasses after they submit a formal request and receive an eye doctor’s assessment, per UDN.

Flight attendants for China Airlines will be able to wear eyeglasses at their own discretion to improve personal comfort and passenger service. Taiwan’s third major carrier Starlux is reportedly considering implementing similar changes to their uniform policy.

Once the new regulations for allowing athletic shoes are finalized, this will reduce the strain on the feet and calves of flight attendants. The measure is expected to optimize service and safety aboard long-haul flights.

Earlier this year, China Airlines unveiled new uniform designs after Taiwan's National Human Rights Commission ruled that all major airlines had to provide a pants option for women. Current regulations at the airline allow female flight attendants to choose either a light purple skirt and jacket, or a pantsuit in gray.