United Kingdom Based British Airways (BA) has initiated the rollout of its brand-new uniform, with over 5,000 colleagues working in the airline’s engineering, maintenance, and airport operations teams worldwide donning the new garments starting today.
The innovative uniform, meticulously designed by renowned British-Ghanaian Savile Row fashion designer and master tailor Ozwald Boateng OBE, will eventually be worn by more than 30,000 British Airways colleagues by the end of this year.
The next phase of the rollout, scheduled for September, will include cabin crew, pilots, and other customer-facing colleagues.
British Airways New Uniform
British Airways’ operational ground colleagues have placed orders for over 128,000 garment items. Subsequently, reflecting the extensive range of choices available in the new wardrobe.
The comprehensive operational collection showcases over 20 distinct garments. Further, including a stylish quilted jacket adorned with a bespoke airwave print, a consistent motif throughout the collection.
Further, the jacket boasts a cozy fleece lining and is showerproof. Subsequently ensuring optimum comfort and protection against the elements.
Subsequently, with practicality at the forefront, the garments feature additional pockets for tools, detachable tool belts, and gloves equipped with touchscreen technology.
Over the course of five years, the entire collection was meticulously crafted in close collaboration with British Airways’ colleagues.
More than 1,500 colleagues from various departments generously volunteered their time to contribute to the creation of the collection. Actively participating in over 50 workshops.
These workshops encompassed design sessions, prototype feedback, and garment trials. All are aimed at capturing the essence of the iconic British designs.
To ensure the utmost suitability and functionality, renowned designer Ozwald Boateng immersed himself in the airport environment. Further, shadowing different airport roles and gaining valuable insights into their unique requirements.
The newly developed garments are then subjected to rigorous secret trials, undergoing tests in deluge showers and freezing chambers set at -18 degrees Celsius.
These trials rigorously assessed the garments’ water resistance and durability. Further ensuring their reliability in various conditions.
Executive Insights
René de Groot, Chief Operating Officer of British Airways, expressed his enthusiasm for the long-awaited uniform launch. Which has been years in the making.
Colleagues are eagerly embracing the new collection. Further recognizing it as a significant advancement from the previous garments, providing enhanced practicality.
De Groot is particularly pleased that the dedicated teams will make the first transition to the new designs. They work in airport operations, cargo, engineering, and maintenance across British Airways’ global airports and bases.
In line with British Airways’ commitment to sustainability through its BA Better World program, the design of the new uniforms incorporates sustainability as a core principle.
The recycling of the old uniforms is an integral part of this initiative. As the operational ground teams begin wearing their new uniforms, they will return their current ones, which will be donated to selected charities or recycled.
British Airways is actively exploring various options for recycling garments, including the potential creation of a sustainable merchandise range and the preservation of certain items in the British Airways Heritage Centre.
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