New Delhi - On Tuesday, Air India, the private carrier, unveiled its latest collection of uniforms designed by Manish Malhotra for both cabin and cockpit crews. The company stated that the introduction of these new uniforms would occur gradually over the next few months, commencing with the debut of Air India's first Airbus A350 aircraft.
"The introduction of Manish Malhotra's innovative ensembles will mark an exciting new chapter for Air India's future narrative," said Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director at Air India, emphasizing the rich history of Air India's crew uniforms in the aviation industry.
The new crew uniform, according to Wilson, perfectly encapsulates the essence of the airline's evolving identity. The female cabin crew attire showcases a ready-to-wear ombre saree adorned with intricate patterns inspired by Indian heritage architecture (jharokha) and the Vista, the new Air India logo icon. This ensemble is paired with a comfortable blouse and blazer.
Manish Malhotra expressed his goal of creating uniforms that not only reflect India's diverse culture and traditions but also embody a modern and sophisticated look. The use of quintessential Indian hues aims to instill a sense of pride in the crew and make a lasting impression on guests, representing the warmth and hospitality for which India is renowned.
The uniform designs resulted from a collaborative effort involving input from cabin crew representatives and the airline's In-flight services team, with thorough testing to ensure their suitability. The cockpit crew's uniform features a traditional black double-breasted suit adorned with a Vista-inspired print, symbolizing professionalism, timeless elegance, and the esteemed nature of the aviation profession.
In addition to the uniforms, Manish Malhotra has also designed stylish and comfortable footwear. The female cabin crew will wear dual-tone block heels in black and burgundy, while the male cabin crew will sport comfortable black Brogues.