Qantas to Enforce ‘Smart Casual’ Lounge Dress Code

Australian flag carrier Qantas Airways said it will begin to strictly enforce its dress code in its business-class lounges this spring.

The airline has long had a policy that banned extremely casual dress, but the policy has not been enforced very strictly by those guarding the entrances to the lounges.  Starting April 1, however, travelers wishing to visit lounges in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney will need to wear “smart casual dress” to gain admittance.

Qantas’ old dress code prohibited flip-flops and bare feet as well as “clothing with offensive images or slogans.”

The airline said in a statement that the “vast majority” of those visiting the lounge have long been meeting and exceeding the new guidelines, adding that its dress guide for lounges is “the same as most restaurants and clubs.”

Prior to April 1, Qantas lounges will have signage reminding visitors of the new guidelines.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)