Giving a rest to the headscarf controversy, Air France has announced that it will allow its female crew to opt out of flying from Paris to Tehran. The controversy was sparked by the Iranian law that dictated women attendants to wear headscarves in Tehran upon landing. Following two days of uproar and displeasure over the diktat, Air France met with the airline unions on Monday afternoon and directed all female attendants to use their freedom to opt out of flying to the Islamic city. According to Air France, even if a pilot or a cabin attendant is flying from Paris to Tehran, they will be allowed to switch flights before landing in Tehran. Iranian law requires all women to cover their hair when venturing out in public spaces. Since the law is observed "by all international airlines serving the Republic of Iran", according to Air France, it does not apply during the flight.

But while headscarves are a tradition in Iran, the same along with hijabs and veils are banned in France.

The airline said in a statement, "Tolerance and respect for the cultures and customs in the countries served by the airline are part of the fundamental values of Air France and its staff."

Air France has made all its Paris to Tehran flights voluntary for women crew to respect "the personal values of each Air France female crew member."

Paris to Tehran flights will resume after an eight-year hiatus on 17th April and will operate thrice a week.