Famous designer Manish Malhotra is set to revamp the uniforms for Air India’s pilots, flight staff, and cabin crew.
In a recent announcement, Air India expressed excitement about this collaboration, recognizing Manish Malhotra’s iconic status in the world of fashion.
The airline aptly describes this partnership as “Fashion takes flight.”
Social Media Announcement
The official announcement was made on Air India’s social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
Air India shared its delight in partnering with the renowned fashion designer, Manish Malhotra, to create fresh uniforms for cabin crew, pilots, and frontline colleagues. A stylish transformation is in store, reflecting the new Air India we are building together.
Uniform Update
After six decades, Air India decided to update its airline cabin crew uniforms.
Currently, female air hostesses wear sarees, while male cabin crew sport suits.
The upcoming change promises to infuse fashion into the flight experience, with reports suggesting a choice of suits with churidars or other Indo-Western combinations for female staff.
New Uniform Timeline
Air India anticipates rolling out the new uniforms for employees by the end of 2023.
This initiative aligns with the broader efforts to give the airline a fresh identity since the Tata Group assumed control in January 2022.
The introduction of designer uniforms for staff is a crucial part of this transformation.
Consultations with Air India Employees
Manish Malhotra and his team have initiated discussions and meetings with Air India employees to gain insights into their specific work-related requirements.
This collaborative approach aims to ensure the uniforms meet both style and functionality criteria.
Air India CEO’s Perspective
Campbell Wilson, CEO and Managing Director of Air India, commented, “Manish Malhotra and his team are closely aligning our brand, heritage, culture,
and the unique aviation environment. We anticipate a new and appealing style that represents the new Air India.”
A Glimpse into History
In 1962, during the era of JRD Tata, Air India’s air hostesses used to don Western-style uniforms, including skirts, jackets, and caps.
At that time, most air hostesses at Tata Airlines were of Anglo-Indian or European origin. However, the uniform evolved to include sarees, a tradition that continues today.
