Anime Air: Spring Airlines dresses flight attendants in cosplay
Staff Reporter 2013-04-23 09:32
The maid costumes were inspired by Japanese manga and anime. (Photo/Xinhua)
Spring Airlines, a Shanghai-based budget airline, has taken unique measures to draw passengers, now requiring its flight attendants to serve passengers dressed as butlers and maids, reports China's official news agency Xinhua.
Influenced by Japanese anime and the popularity of its female characters, it has become increasingly common in Japan to see young women dressed as maids to hand out fliers promoting various stores. Meanwhile, maid cafes — themed restaurants where waitresses dress up in maid costumes — have opened in different locations across East Asia including China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and South Korea.
Spring Airlines hopes to cash in on the craze and believes the move will appeal to a greater number of young people. EVA Air, Taiwan's second-largest carrier, undertook a similar measure last year by launching Hello Kitty-themed planes to increase its appeal to female passengers in particular.
Some Chinese netizens have objected to Spring Airlines' move, saying the airline should improve its level of service and lower prices, rather than resort to a gimmick. Many also said the maid theme does not fit in with traditional Chinese culture — a suggestion that contains more than a hint of anti-Japanese nationalism.
The company responded to netizens' concerns, stating that the onboard food service will be improved and a new premium economy cabin class will be introduced this month.
