New Delhi : Tata-owned Air India has stepped into a new era of inflight couture with the unveiling of a stunning collection of uniforms for its cabin and cockpit crew.
Designed by renowned Indian couturier Manish Malhotra, the uniforms are set to redefine the airline’s identity and bring together India’s rich heritage with contemporary style.
Crafted at Malhotra’s Mumbai atelier, the uniforms boast a vibrant array of colors and timeless designs, embodying a seamless fusion of traditional Indian aesthetics and 21st-century elegance and comfort.
Over the coming months, the collection will be progressively unveiled, beginning with the arrival of Air India’s first Airbus A350.
“Air India’s crew uniforms are among the most storied in aviation history,” stated Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of Air India. “We firmly believe that Manish Malhotra’s innovative ensemble will script an exciting new chapter for Air India’s future narrative.” It perfectly encapsulates our new brand, our guiding service principles, and our mission to redefine global aviation standards.”
A ready-to-wear ombre saree with elaborate patterns evoking Indian heritage architecture (jharokha) and the Vista (the new Air India logo icon) is the attire worn by female cabin crew members. It is paired with a relaxed blouse and blazer.
The ready-to-wear sarees can optionally be paired with cozy pants, giving female cabin crew members more freedom to choose the look that best suits their personal style and creating a distinctive East meets West aesthetic.
The senior female cabin crew will wear ombre sarees that range from aubergine to burgundy, paired with aubergine blazers that project a sophisticated yet authoritative vibe. Junior female cabin crew, on the other hand, will represent youth and energy by dressing in vivid red-to-purple ombre sarees paired with red blazers.
The hallmark technique of ombres is a signature attributed to Malhotra, reflecting his deep-rooted fondness for traditional attire and gradients.
The colour palette of the new uniforms comprises deep red, burgundy, aubergine, and accents of gold, paying homage to India’s rich cultural heritage.
The cockpit crew’s uniform features a classic black double-breasted suit with a print inspired by the Vista, signifying professionalism, timelessness, and the gravitas of the flying profession.
Malhotra has also curated footwear that blends style and comfort, allowing each step to resonate with the grace and poise inherent in Air India’s sartorial overhaul.
The female cabin crew will wear dual-tone (black and burgundy) block heels, and the male cabin crew will wear comfortable black Brogues.
The uniforms include pearl earrings and sling bags for female cabin crew.
“Air India has been in the world’s spotlight for some time. We are confident that our new crew uniforms will rise to the heightened expectations, distinctly making a statement that defines the very best of Indian heritage and hospitality. Travellers across continents will be able to instantly recognise these uniforms as the new Air India,” Campbell Wilson said.
Malhotra has meticulously crafted uniforms not only for Air India’s cabin crew and pilots, but also ground staff, engineers, and security personnel, which will be revealed in due course.
Sustainability and quality have been the cornerstones of the design and production process of these new uniforms. All fabrics and garments are proudly sourced and tailored in India.
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