Northern Ireland

Emirates airline's Belfast recruitment day demands 'insult women'

Emirates, the world's largest international airline, is landing in Belfast next week in search of new "open minded" cabin crew members - however no `plain janes' need apply
Emirates, the world's largest international airline, is landing in Belfast next week in search of new "open minded" cabin crew members - however no `plain janes' need apply Emirates, the world's largest international airline, is landing in Belfast next week in search of new "open minded" cabin crew members - however no `plain janes' need apply

THE world's largest international airline is landing in Belfast next week in search of new cabin staff - however no 'plain Janes' need apply.

Dubai-based Emirates, which is hosting a Cabin Crew Recruitment Open Day in the city next week, will offer successful candidates a tax free salary and a host of other benefits.

The airline has said it is "looking for both women and men with an open-minded, helpful, friendly and service-oriented working attitude" who will be able "to deliver its award-winning on board experience to customers".

Those planning to attend the recruitment event must bring an up-to-date CV in English and a recent photograph.

They must also be aged at least 21, have an arm reach of 212cm when standing on tiptoes and must be able to adapt to new people, new places and new situations.

However, potential candidates will need to come to the recruitment day prepared - and getting ready for this stage could be a long-haul effort.

According to the airline's website only first class individuals who are "physically fit" and with a "healthy Body Mass Index" need apply.

Women who are attending the assessment day must also adhere to a full checklist of essentials.

Their hair must be neatly tied up with any lose hairs "pinned up".

They must also wear a full face of make-up - but only lipstick no lip gloss - and must have manicured nails with nail varnish in clear, red or French manicure.

High heeled shoes are also an essential requirement for the day.

For men, the checklist is not so detailed - neat, short hair, clean shaven and no make-up, clean nails and formal shoes.

Former Miss Ireland Michelle McTernan, who is now the owner of Michelle McTernan Management, said many people would find the checklist for potential candidates daunting.

"I think the criteria is very archaic....wearing blusher and having your hair tied back and having to wear high heels, it seems as if they are auditioning for a beauty competition.

"What about women who have short hair cuts, in bobs or hair that can't be tied back? I think the vast majority of potential candidates will find this list of requirements insulting".

Successful candidates for Emirates, which currently flies to 158 destinations across six continents, can look forward to entire employment package, which includes a variety of benefits such as tax-free income, free high standard shared accommodation in Dubai, free transport to/from work, medical and dental cover and exclusive discounts on shopping and leisure activities in Dubai.