British Airways Unveils Inclusive Uniforms Including Its First-Ever Jumpsuit

After nearly two decades, British Airways is introducing a set of new uniforms for airline staff, most notably including a jumpsuit for female cabin crew in an “airline-first,” alongside a tunic and hijab. 

The collection of clothing, which will be worn by over 30,000 of the airliner’s staff, was designed by homegrown fashion designer Ozwald Boateng OBE, who took five years to bring the project to fruition. 

According to the company, Boateng was inspired by the airline, its employees, and the art of flying. Each piece of the uniform features an airwave pattern, mimicking the movement of air over a plane’s aircraft wing; while the jacquard fabric represents the firm’s iconic speedmarque. 

“One of my main objectives was to create something that spoke to, and for, the airline’s colleagues. Something that inspired and empowered them, encouraged them to conduct their roles with pride and most importantly to ensure that they felt seen and heard,” remarks Boateng.

Men can choose from a tailored three-piece suit with regular or slim-fit style trousers, while women will have the pick of a dress, skirt, and trousers. Those opting for a more gender-neutral look can don the jumpsuit, while a tunic and hijab have been created for global staff members.

To ensure the outfits would translate well in real life, the airliner involved over 1,500 of its staff members in 50 workshops to ensure the garments were durable and sustainable, which it says helped it “create an iconic collection that will stand the test of time.” 

Each piece of the collection underwent an additional six months of “secret trials,” where they were worn by engineerings on cargo flights across Europe. The outdoor garments were also subject to freezing temperatures to ensure they were fit for purpose. 

The old Julien MacDonald garments, which will be handed back to the company upon the switch, will be donated to charity or recycled to create toys, tablet holders, and other items for the airliner’s museum. 

Airline engineers and ground operations agents will be the first to wear the new uniforms from Spring 2023, while cabin crew, pilots, and check-in agents will have to wait till Summer 2023 to switch over to the collection. 

[via NDTV and British Airways, images via British Airways]