Airline fined over ‘sexist’ lipstick and high heels dress code

Vueling has been fined by the Catalonian authorities after imposing “sexist” appearance regulations on flight attendants.

The Spanish low-cost carrier was issued with a €30,000 (£26,400) fine after a complaint was filed by Stavla, the union representing cabin crew working for the airline.

While male flight attendants working for Vueling were only required to have a “clean and neat appearance,” female flight attendants were required to wear foundation, eyeliner, mascara and heels that are two to three inches high.

Catalonian authorities stated that Vueling should introduce “less burdensome and [a] more balanced corporate image, without affecting fundamental rights”.

Vueling, which is owned by International Airlines Group (IAG) – the parent company that also includes British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus – has now stated that it will no longer require male and female members of cabin crew to abide by separate appearance standards.

In a statement shared with The Independent, Vueling said that it has been working on “an inclusive image” for more than a year.

“The process initiated by the Labour Inspectorate of Catalonia includes a sanction proposal that is not yet definite. Vueling is currently studying the process to present allegations making use of its rights.

“The company has been reviewing its style guide and has been working on an inclusive image for more than a year. We always consider any concerns that our crew may have and these are factored into decision-making and implementation. The company’s aim with the dress code is to always ensure comfort and safety in all environments. In fact, the style guide was drafted with the cooperation of the crew member representatives.

“In addition, some of the crew members’ suggestions have been gradually incorporated. An example of this is the adaptation of the guide with regards to the use of make-up, in which there is now no gender distinction or obligation to wear make-up.”

It’s not the first time IAG has come under fire for its uniform regulations.

Flight attendants working for Iberia launched a petition in 2022 to protest their employer’s compulsory high heels rule, following the carrier’s first uniform revamp in 15 years.

When the new uniform policy was unveiled, women working for the airline found that, although they could wear trainers while in the…