Low-cost airline Vueling is facing a €30,000 fine after falling foul of Catalan labour laws: female cabin crew employed by the company are reportedly instructed to wear high heels and make up while on duty.

The country’s workers’ union, STAVLA, brought the action, making it known to the Catalan government of the company practises, with the El Periodico newspaper reporting the various ‘rules’ in place for female air stewards: obligatory makeup depending on the person’s skin colour in addition to black mascara and eyeliner, eye shadow and high heels worn between 5cm and 8cm in height.

Male stewards are told they must only maintain “a clean and neat appearance” and were not instructed on their choice of footwear.

Vueling says the guidelines were agreed upon five years ago and are currently being reviewed for a “more inclusive” outcome. “We always consider any concerns that our crew may have and these are factored into decision-making and implementation,” said a spokesman for Vueling. “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 members’ representatives.”

The airline, which forms part of the IAG (International Airline Group) along with British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus, is considering appealing the fine.