Some 3,000 domestic, international and regional Qantas pilots will get new uniforms designed by Australian fashion designer Martin Grant by end of 2016. The last time Qantas Pilots uniforms got a refresh was 13 years ago.
Martin got his design inspiration from the classic military and naval-style pilot uniforms. In designing the new uniforms, Martin has also taken into consideration the feedback from pilots who wanted a uniform that was modern, wearable and recognisable.
The modern and sleek navy suit made from Australian fabrics features nostalgic design features linking back to the first Qantas pilot uniforms dated back to the 1930s. The streamlined cut navy suit comes with a narrow trouser for males and a more feminine version for women, including a specific female tie. The fabric is lighter, shirt more fitted and the gold stripes used to define rank are finer to give a more elegant look. The back of the jacket features a red vent to add a splash of colour.
The hat is navy with waterproof white top which is important for conducting the pre-flight aircraft walk around in all weather. The gold embroidered hat badge has been simplified using the Qantas Roo logo – the iconic symbol first introduced in 1947 to coincide with the airline’s first service through to London. The symbol also features on the new wing badge, which has been updated in gold embroidery.
A water resistant trench coat based on the iconic Qantas trench is made of lightweight wool giving it the practical aspect whilst maintaining the chic, tailored quality.
Approximately 80,000 garments will be produced using around 30,000 metres of suiting and 30,000 metres of shirting fabrics. The suit is made from Pure Australian Merino Wool and Australian cotton in the skirting. Some 5,000 metres of gold braid for the epaulettes, hat and stripes will be manufactured in Paris. 4kg of gold bullion thread will be used on the hat and wing badge.
