A Japanese budget airline is facing criticism over a move to put female flight attendants in a new uniform of short mini-dresses.
Skymark Airlines, the country’s third-largest carrier, faces accusations of inviting sexual harassment and treating women like a commodity.
The new uniform consists of a short, fitted 60s-style mini-dress in royal blue, the Telegraph reported.
In a satetment, trade union the Japan Federation of Cabin Attendants said: “We’re concerned that the design of this uniform may cause problems.
“The airline is saying the uniform is meant to attract more customers, but this shows the company is treating women like a commodity.”
The union’s website contained posts raising concerns that passengers could take pictures up the cabin crew’s skirts.
It has also questioned whether the uniform will allow the attendants to carry out their duties properly.
The airline disputed the union’s claims, saying the uniform was for a temporary promotion during the launch of Airbus A330s on domestic routes this spring.
Skymark president Shinichi Nishikubo said: “We won’t impose the uniform on any of the cabin attendants who refuse to wear it.
“It is disappointing that the outfit designed in part for the ad campaign is being seen in a distorted way.”