China’s Spring Airlines is facing online backlash after announcing plans to recruit married women and mothers as flight attendants under the title “Air Aunties.”
The Shanghai-based low-cost carrier said the initiative aims to create more employment opportunities for women with “life experience and empathy.” The airline added that the new recruits’ duties and salaries would be the same as those of other female flight attendants.
According to the announcement, applicants aged 25 to 40 who are married or have children will be eligible to apply.
However, the term “Air Aunties,” which dates back to the 1990s, has drawn criticism online, with many describing it as derogatory and outdated. Critics argue that the label reinforces gender stereotypes rather than promoting inclusivity in the workplace.
