One of India’s oldest carriers, Air India, has flipped the switch with its new pilot and cabin crew uniforms which were unveiled yesterday. The new uniforms are an ode to the airlines’ “rich history and a promise of a bright future”, the carrier said unveiling the uniforms on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The new collection of uniforms has been designed by one of India’s most renowned fashion designers, Manish Malhotra. “These uniforms, envisioned by India’s leading couturier Manish Malhotra, features three quintessential Indian colours – red, aubergine and gold, representing the confident, vibrant new India,” Air India said in its post on X.
In a statement, the airline said the new uniforms will be introduced in a phased manner over the next few months. The induction will start with the entry of service of Air India’s first Airbus A350 aircraft. Air India CEO and MD Campbell Wilson said that the airlines’ crew uniforms are “amongst the world’s most storied in aviation history” and that the firm believes that Malhotra’s “ innovative ensemble” will commence a new chapter for its future. He added that the crew’s new uniform perfectly captures the essence of the airline’s new identity, among others.
What do the new Air India uniforms look like?
The new uniforms were designed keeping in close touch with the cabin crew representatives and the airline’s In-flight services team, who also conducted an extensive testing exercise for the new designs.
Air India stated that the uniform for female cabin crew includes a ready-to-wear ombre saree adorned with intricate patterns inspired by Indian heritage architecture (jharokha) and the Vista (new Air India logo icon). This ensemble is complemented by a comfortable blouse and blazer.
The uniform for the cockpit crew includes a timeless black double-breasted suit adorned with a print inspired by the Vista, symbolizing professionalism, enduring style, and the gravity of the aviation profession. Additionally, Malhotra has selected footwear that combines style with comfort, with the female cabin crew donning dual-tone block heels in black and burgundy, while the male cabin crew will wear comfortable black Brogues, as announced by the airline.
Malhotra expressed that the goal was to design uniforms that encapsulate the richness of India’s diverse culture and traditions, blending them with a modern and sophisticated aesthetic. “By integrating essential hues symbolizing India, my aspiration is for these uniforms to instill pride in the crew and create a lasting impression on guests, reflecting the warmth and hospitality that India is renowned for,” stated Malhotra.