How To Select The Right Uniform For Your Airline

Summary: With more and more carriers taking off each day, airline fleets are also on the rise. Unifying one entire fleet through a single iconic uniform then becomes a head-scratcher for designers and manufacturers for days on end as it is directly related to brand perception capital. So selecting the right airline uniform becomes a matter of having an edge in the industry.


Aircraft Pilot Stewardess Air Traffic Controller Stock Vector (Royalty Free) 1059052889 | Shutterstock

Taking to the skies is a fairly regular affair now. Even then the airline uniform remains a point of pride and glory for the rulers of the skies.

Before the 1930s, aviators could be seen wearing silk scarves, leather bomber jackets, khaki pants, gloves, boots and other flying gear inspired by military attire. The style later took a turn for Navy-style apparel that comprised a navy-blue, double-breasted jacket with rank insignia on the sleeve cuffs and a hat.

Since then, airline uniforms have come a long way to include other relevant personnel beyond pilots and cabin crew as well.

Numbers Speak


Smiling Cabin Crew Uniforms Walking Ahead Stock Photo 2028477440 | Shutterstock

As the aviation industry continues to grow and expand, there is an increased demand for pilots, maintenance technicians, and cabin crew. According to various reports, the aviation industry is expected to experience significant growth from 2021 to 2040. The global commercial aviation fleet is likely to more than double in size during this period.

This growth will create an increased demand for pilots, maintenance technicians, and cabin crew. The reports estimate that the aviation industry will need approximately 612,000 to 750,000 new pilots, 650,000 to 890,000 new maintenance technicians, and 800,000 to 1.5 million new cabin crew members to support this fleet expansion over the next two decades.

This undoubtedly creates a huge potential that manufacturers and designers should brace for and tap on to reap maximum dividends.

What to keep in mind


Asian Flight Attendant Woman Airline Uniform Stock Photo 2248731933 | Shutterstock

Airline uniforms are an essential part of a company's brand and image. They not only help identify the airline but also set the tone for passengers' perception of the airline's quality and service. When choosing the right airline uniform, there are several factors that airlines should consider. In this article, we'll discuss the important factors to consider when purchasing airline uniforms.

Airline uniforms must be practical and comfortable, instead of simply being stylish and glamorous. They should be comfortable and yet enjoyable to wear. The design, therefore, becomes crucial - to aid both the economic parameters of a business and wearer satisfaction.

It gets tricky when one design needs to fit across all shapes, sizes and ages. Thus, it is virtually impossible to have a single uniform that will look good on everyone. Though Singapore Airlines, Etihad, Vistara and Akasa Airlines have done a great job at making their uniforms flexible and breathable enough to be appealing to all.

Important parameters


Woman Stewardess Air Hostess Uniform Holding Stock Photo 2111449631 | Shutterstock

1. Comfort: The comfort of the uniform is crucial since employees will be wearing them for long periods. The uniform should allow for ease of movement and be made from comfortable, breathable fabric. Pilots and cabin crew should be able to move freely in their uniforms, without feeling restricted or uncomfortable.
   

2. Safety: Safety is another crucial factor to consider when choosing an airline uniform. For example, pilots and ground staff should wear high-visibility clothing when working on the tarmac. The uniform should also be flame retardant and protect against hazards like electric arcs or static discharges.
   

3. Functionality: The uniform should be designed with the job functions of each employee in mind. Cabin crew uniforms should have enough pockets and compartments to hold essential items like pens, notepads, and other accessories. Pilot uniforms should have enough pockets to hold all their essential equipment.
   

4. Customisation: Customisation is essential to ensure the uniform reflects the airline's brand and values. Airlines may choose to customise their uniforms with logos, colours, and other design elements. Customisation can also help promote inclusivity by accommodating the different body types of employees, such as providing uniforms in various sizes and fits.
   

5. Durability: The airline uniform should be able to withstand the rigours of the job. It should be made from high-quality fabric that can withstand frequent washing and ironing. The uniforms should be long-lasting and able to withstand wear and tear.
   

6. Cost: The cost of the uniform is an important factor to consider. Airlines should balance the need for quality over quantity against the cost of the uniform. The goal is to find a uniform that provides the best value for money while still meeting all the necessary criteria.

Conclusion - Time to Fly

In conclusion, choosing the right airline uniform is a crucial decision for any airline. The uniform should be comfortable, safe, functional, customisable, durable, and cost-effective. Airlines should take the time to consider all these factors before making a purchase decision. A well-designed and appropriate uniform can help create a positive image for the airline and increase employee satisfaction and productivity. Call Fashinza to be your preferred partner in designing and manufacturing airline uniforms. Book a Demo with Fashinza today.

Key Takeaway

i) Flexibility, safety and comfort are the three important aspects that designers need to abide by while manufacturing or designing airline uniforms.

ii) It is virtually impossible to have a single uniform that will look good on everyone.

iii) Gender-inclusive uniforms help build perception capital among the target demographic and are in favour currently