This response was not enough to placate female politicians in Norway, a country that is widely considered to lead the way on gender equality issues.

Ingrid Hodnebo, of Norway’s Socialist Left Party, accused the airline of being stuck in a “Mad Men universe”. Anette Trettebergstuen, who represents women in the country’s Labour Party, said: “The year 1950 rang and it wants its rulebook back.”

The truth is, Norwegian Air is far from alone in conjuring up sexist policies for its female cabin crew.

Up until last month, Virgin Atlantic required its female attendants to wear make-up; and getting rid of that protocol was considered a newsworthy move.

On British Airways, female crew must wear a minimum of lipstick and blusher, while Emirates female attendants adhere to a strict code that includes a particular shade of red lipstick, and nail varnish approved by the airline’s grooming department.

Quite why looking “professional” or “smart” has anything to do with heels or lipstick is anyone’s guess. But unless the same rigorous demands are placed on male stewards, it’s entirely sexist - and has no place in this day and age.

Images: Getty

Female flight attendants on this airline need a doctor's note to not wear heels