Air India, one of India's oldest airlines, has flicked the switch on its new pilot and cabin staff uniforms, which were introduced yesterday. The new outfits are a testament to the airline's "rich history and the promise of a bright future," according to the carrier, who unveiled them on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Manish Malhotra, one of India's most-known fashion designers, created the new uniform line. "These uniforms, envisioned by India's leading couturier Manish Malhotra, feature three quintessential Indian colors - red, aubergine, and gold, representing the confident, vibrant new India," Air India wrote in a post on X.

The airline said in a statement that the new uniforms will be phased in over the next three months. The introduction will begin with the first Airbus A350 aircraft entering service for Air India. Air India CEO and MD Campbell Wilson stated that the airline's crew uniforms are "amongst the world's most storied in aviation history" and that the company expects Malhotra's "innovative ensemble" will start a new chapter for the company's future. He went on to say that the crew's new uniform, among other things, properly embodies the heart of the airline's new identity.

How do the new Air India uniforms appear?

The new uniforms were created in collaboration with cabin crew representatives and the airline's in-flight services staff, who also undertook rigorous testing on the new designs.

According to Air India, the female cabin crew uniform features a ready-to-wear ombre saree with intricate designs inspired by Indian heritage architecture (jharokha) and the Vista (new Air India logo emblem). This look is completed with a comfortable blouse and blazer.

The cockpit crew wears a traditional black double-breasted suit with a Vista-inspired design, symbolizing professionalism, enduring style, and the gravity of the aviation profession. Malhotra has also chosen footwear that blends flair and comfort, with female cabin personnel wearing dual-tone block heels in black and burgundy, and male cabin crew wearing comfy black Brogues, as stated by the airline.

The goal, according to Malhotra, was to create uniforms that encapsulated the richness of India's diverse culture and customs while integrating them with a modern and refined look. "By integrating essential hues symbolizing India, my aspiration is for these uniforms to instill pride in the crew and create a lasting impression on guests, reflecting the warmth and hospitality that India is renowned for," Malhotra said in a statement.