Hi, I am currently in training to get my PPL which I will then carry on to a commercial licence, I am considering getting a tattoo but do not want to if it may hinder my career. Will it potentially cause a problem if I get a small shoulder tattoo which is easily covered and out of sight by wearing a simple short sleeve shirt?
As long as it is covered and out of sight you are good
Harry,
As long as it’s not visible in uniform your fine. For example I wouldn’t get a lightning bolt on my forehead 
Adam
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Adam,
Sir i’m sure your probably tired of hearing the same question over and over, but just curious about a question. I read in a forum that you have done a few sit in interviews and wanted some advice/guidance. I have a tattoo of crossed anchors on my hands (between my thumb and index finger) that i can cover up with my thumb nail. Would you suggest i get it removed, can i simply just use a skin colored circle small band-aid to cover them or possible use tattoo make-up? I want to be a pilot and failure isn’t an option for me. So, i do not want two small tattoos stopping me from achieving my goals. Thank you or whomever replied your time and reply is greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
Tyler
Tyler,
Every airline I know has a policy of “no visible tattoos”. I’m no expert nor do I know whether your suggested remedies will work or not. What I can tell you is some applications ask if you have any. If you say you don’t and it’s seen you’ve lied and you’re done. That all said I don’t know where you are in the process? If you’ve just started training I’d focus on that and worry about the ink later. No need to worry about step #712 when you’re on step #2.
Adam
Adam,
Thank you sir. Again much appreciated in responding. I have not started traing yet. I plan to began in the next few months in Portland, OR. Currently just studying what material I can online and making sure I’m good to go on standards. Trying to set myself up for success. Lie in an interview or anywhere wont happen especially about tattoos I have. That would just be dumb especially because everything eventually comes out.
Tyler
Tyler,
I would get the tattoos removed. Even if you hide them through the interview, you will then need to cover them up every single work day for the rest of your career.
Chris
Chris,
Thanks for the imput. Much appreciated. Definitely will be looking into getting them removed. Dont want to spend my training and the amount of money on my career just to jepordize it by two small tattoos. As much as they mean to me I can always get something new later down the road in a none visible place.
Tyler
Tyler,
As always, your life your call but again I think you’re putting the tattoo WAYYYYYYYYY before the horse. Are you going for uniform fittings, checking good restaurants for your overnights in Boise and working on your PA voice too? While it’s great to have a plan again YOU HAVEN’T STARTED FLYING YET. Worry about that. Worry about training, studying, checkrides, instructing, etc then worry about an interview you may or may not have 2-3yrs from now.
Adam
Adam,
I know. Just getting information so I know what I need to do in the future. Trying to avoid potential road hazards in the furture by addressing them now. Less to worry about in the future. Overnights in boise would be nice. I live in ID so I know a few really good spots for supper.
Tyler