Air India has unveiled new uniforms for its cabin crew and pilots. The new designs are the next step in the airline’s rebranding as it restructures and prepares to take the delivery of its first Airbus A350 aircraft.

The new uniforms will be phased in over the next six months, beginning with the arrival of Air India’s first Airbus A350. “Air India’s crew uniforms are among the most storied in aviation history,” said Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India. “We firmly believe Manish Malhotra’s innovative ensemble will script an exciting new chapter for Air India’s future narrative.” It adequately embodies the core of our new brand, service ideals, and pursuit of further global aviation benchmarks.”

“Air India has been in the spotlight for quite some time. We are confident that our new crew uniform 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 recognize these uniforms as the new Air India instantly,” he added.

The new uniforms, designed by famous Indian celebrity couturier Manish Malhotra, feature an array of colours that complement the carrier’s new design palette. The corporate identity was recently revealed on the company’s first A350 long-range twinjet, now being prepped for delivery in Toulouse, France.

“The collection mirrors a rare, harmonious blend of rich Indian heritage and aesthetics with 21st-century style, elegance, and comfort,” says Air India. The new uniforms will be phased in over the next few months, beginning with the entry in service of Air India’s first Airbus A350.” Malhotra’s designs represent a more confident, progressive, and resurgent new India while blending with the country’s national carrier’s new corporate identity.

“I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to design the uniforms for Air India,” Manish Malhotra said in a statement. “It is a privilege to be able to contribute to the national flag-bearer and showcase the elegance and charm of Indian fashion.”

I aimed to create uniforms that capture the essence of India’s rich culture and traditions while simultaneously evoking a modern and sophisticated look. By incorporating quintessential hues that are symbolic to India, I hope these uniforms not only make the crew feel proud but also leave a lasting impression on the guests, representing the warmth and hospitality India is known for.”

A ready-to-wear ombré saree with intricate patterns reminiscent of Indian heritage architecture (jharokha) and the Vista (new Air India logo icons) is matched with a comfy blouse and blazer in the new female cabin crew uniform.

The ready-to-wear sarees may be worn with comfortable pants, allowing the female cabin crew to choose the style they most identify with and bring a distinctive East-meets-West appeal.

Meanwhile, the senior female cabin crew will wear ombré sarees in aubergine and burgundy, combined with aubergine blazers that “exude a balance of authority and sophistication.” On the other hand, the younger female cabin crew would wear brilliant red-to-purple ombré sarees with red blazers.

Malhotra’s signature technique is ombré, which reflects his deep-rooted fondness for traditional dress and gradients. The new uniforms’ colour scheme includes deep red, burgundy, aubergine, and gold highlights, which are said to pay homage to India’s rich cultural heritage.

The well-fitting uniforms for male and female cabin crew have been designed with practicality and durability, allowing crew members to move freely while performing their in-flight duties.

The cockpit crew’s outfit is a classic black double-breasted suit with a pattern inspired by the Vista logo. The design is intended to “signify professionalism, timelessness, and the gravitas of the flying profession.”

The airline also requested Malhotra to design appropriate crew footwear ranges to accompany his new uniform designs.

The female cabin crew will wear dual-tone (black and burgundy) block heels, while the male crew will wear comfy black brogues. The female cabin crew’s attire features pearl earrings and sling bags.

Malhotra has been busy recently. Malhotra has developed new uniform lines for Air India’s cabin crew and pilots and designed new uniforms for the airline’s ground staff, engineers, and security personnel, all of which will be rolled out in the coming months.

Sustainability and quality have been central to designing and manufacturing these new uniforms. All fabrics and garments are sourced and tailored in India with pride.

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