In an era where diversity and inclusivity are increasingly celebrated, it’s hard to imagine that there was a time when job requirements were based more on appearance than ability. Yet, a recent discovery has left many in disbelief as they learned about the ‘outdated’ qualifications for female flight attendants that seem more suited to a beauty pageant than an airline.
The list, which surfaced on social media and quickly became a hot topic, detailed the stringent and superficial standards set by Chicago and Southern Air Lines for their stewardesses—a term that itself feels like a relic from the past. The qualifications read like a checklist for a ’50s dating show rather than a job description, with requirements that the women be single not even engaged, aged between 22 and 28, and within a specific height and weight range.
The physical demands didn’t stop there. Prospective flight attendants couldn’t wear glasses and were expected to have ‘good teeth’, a ‘good figure’, ‘slender legs’, and a ‘natural’ hair colour. They were also required to have a ‘good carriage’, ‘nice hands’, and ‘clear skin’. It’s a stark contrast to the modern-day emphasis on safety and service that defines the role of cabin crew members.
The commentary on social media was swift and scathing. One user quipped about the absurdity of prioritising slender legs over safety, while another pointed out the irony of demanding a four-year college degree alongside such superficial criteria. The list seemed to many like a snapshot of a bygone era when sexism and objectification were the norm in the workplace.
Back in the ’50s, the training for flight attendants was less about emergency procedures and more about grooming, charm, and poise. A three-week course might cover conversational French and entertainment, with a side of vaccinations for those international routes. Today, the focus is rightfully on the physical ability to handle emergencies, with airlines like United requiring staff to be strong enough to lift heavy objects and reach safety equipment.
In Australia, Qantas sets practical standards for their cabin crew, including a minimum age of 18, a height range to ensure the ability to reach equipment, and a high level of health and fitness. Prospective crew members must also demonstrate their ability to swim 50 metres unassisted and tread water for three minutes—skills that are undeniably more relevant to the job than the colour of their hair or the straightness of their teeth.
While the industry has come a long way, some remnants of the past still linger. Reports of Malaysia Airlines firing a female cabin crew member for being 700 grams overweight and the expectation for Emirates flight attendants to wear signature red lipstick show that appearance can still play a role in the profession. However, these instances are becoming less common as the world moves towards a more enlightened view of workplace equality.
Have you ever encountered outdated or surprising job requirements in your career? What do you think about the evolution of the flight attendant role? Feel free to share your experiences, opinions, and any other insights in the comment section below – we look forward to hearing from you!
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