U.S. Air Force Capt. Kate “Flare” Archer, F-22 Pilot with the 27th Fighter Squadron, prepares her gear before stepping out to the flight line, on Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Feb. 25, 2021. The female hair regulation change in AFI 36-2903, allows ponytails and braids in uniform. Before the change, most women would have to wear their hair out of regulation in order for their gear to fit them properly. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jaylen Molden)
U.S. Air Force Maj. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers, 27th Fighter Squadron Assistant Director of Operations and F-22 Mission Commander, climbs into an F-22, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Feb. 25, 2021. Female pilots often struggled to fit their helmets over their buns and more often than not would ultimately have to let the bun down, Ayers prepares to strap in and slip her helmet over her head without worrying about having a bun in her way. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jaylen Molden)