Airline boss says he’s sorry for saying only a man can do his job
Qatar Airways’ CEO has apologised for claiming that his job is too hard for a woman.
Akbar Al Baker made the remark at a press conference in Sydney after taking over as chairman of IATA’s board of governors, on which Flybe’s CEO has just become the only female representative.
When asked about the under-representation of women in the Middle Eastern aviation industry, he claimed only a man could handle his ‘challenging’ role at Qatar Airways, according to news organisation Bloomberg.
"Of course it has to be led by a man, because it is a very challenging position," he said.
Al Baker has since said claimed his remark has been ‘sensationalised’ by the media.
"I would like to offer my heartfelt apologies for any offence caused by my comment yesterday, which runs counter to my track record of expanding the role of women in leadership throughout the Qatar Airways Group and has been sensationalised by the media," he said.
"Women comprise almost half (44%) of our work force, and the dedication, drive and skill they bring to their jobs tells me that no role is too tough for them, at all levels of the organisation.
"Qatar Airways firmly believes in gender equality in the workplace and our airline has been a pioneer in our region in this regard, as the first airline to employ female pilots, as one of the first to train and employ female engineers, and with females represented through to Senior Vice President positions within the airline reporting directly to me.
" Qatar Airways is made stronger by its female employees for whom I hold nothing but the highest regard. I support all IATA initiatives to promote the advancement of women in our industry, and I am a strong advocate for these and will continue to be moving forward."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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