Aeroflot representatives have reportedly suggested that overweight air stewardesses are 'dangerous' and that it is justifiable for them to receive lower pay for this reason.

"Ninety-two per cent [of Aeroflot passengers] want to see stewardesses who fit into the clothes sizes we are talking about here," said Pavel Danilin, a member of the airline's public council, citing results from a survey.

“Aeroflot is a premium airline and part of the reason people pay for tickets is the appearance of its employees," continued Mr Danilin.

The controversial comments were made at a press conference on Tuesday in response to two recent lawsuits, in which a group of female employees attempted to sue the airline for discrimination over their age, weight and appearance. The group has labelled itself STS - a Russian abbreviation for “old, fat, ugly”.