Updated AFI 36-2903: Highlight #3 Published Aug. 24, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Whitney Jackson Nellis Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- Editor's note: This Highlight is just one of many changes included in the recently updated version of AFI 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel. A total of 10 Highlights are scheduled to be included in this series. All photos are staged and intended to provide visual examples of improper standards due to the AFI updates. For more information on dress and appearance standards, Airmen are encouraged to review the new AFI or contact their commander or first sergeant. Air Force officials released the updated Air Force Instruction 36-2903 July 18, 2011, to all Air Force personnel. Some changes in the updated AFI are located in Chapter 6.3. These include: 6.3.3. Handheld Electronic Devices. Handheld electronic devices are small electronic equipment such as cellular phones (personal or official), MP3 or similar players, radio, or hands-free devices (e.g. Bluetooth). Handheld electronic devices will be plain black, silver, dark blue, or gray. Holster and other storage devices used to carry handheld electronic devices will be plain black, silver, dark blue, or gray. One handheld electronic device may be attached to a belt/waistband on either side, clipped to a purse, or carried in the left hand. 6.3.3.1. Wear/use of an earpiece, any blue tooth technology or headphones, while in uniform, indoors or outdoors, is prohibited, unless specifically authorized for the execution of official duties. (Exception: Headphones and earphones (IPods, MP3 type players, etc.) are authorized during air travel and/or while wearing the physical training uniform (PTU) during individual or personal PT in the fitness center or on designated running areas unless prohibited by the installation commander). Use of a hands-free device is authorized while in uniform operating a motor vehicle if local policy permits. 6.3.3.2. While walking in uniform use of personal electronic media devices, including ear pieces, speaker phones or text messaging is limited to emergencies or when official notifications are necessary. Military customs and courtesies take precedence.
