DOHA: British Airways (BA) will introduce a new uniform for some 25,000 of its staff serving the region to suit the religious and cultural requirements of the Middle East, a senior official at the airline, said yesterday.
The new uniform has been designed by a renowned British fashion designer, Julien Macdonald, and will be worn by cabin-crew, flight crew, dispatchers and check-in agents beginning this month. "The British Airways Uniform Committee has adapted the new uniform to ensure that it upholds the corporate image while allowing flexibility to meet key religious requirements of the region, particularly focusing on issues of modesty. The new design reflects the airline's British heritage combining the qualities of a classic tailored pin stripe suit with the style and creative flair of Julien Macdonald. The uniform includes contemporary details such as branded cufflink buttons and a striking red lining," he added.
Rory Black, manager for Qatar and Bahrain at BA, said: "Our uniform is one of the most powerful symbols of the BA brand and it is important our staff feel proud to wear it on the ground and in the air. The new uniform is successful at reinforcing our identity - professional, reassuring and proudly British - a quality brand that is recognisable throughout the world." For the first time, female staff will have the option of wearing a skirt or trousers and female pilots will have a specially designed uniform. With the number of female pilots increasing rapidly, the airline felt the need for a dedicated uniform with a more feminine cut.
Julien worked with top milliner Stephen Jones to design a hat reminiscent of the pioneering aviation days. A new handbag designed by Tanner Krolle of London is also a part of the uniform. According to details released by BA, some 800,00 buttons with the airline's logo were used for the new uniform tailored items, coats and suits.
Over 170,000 metres of fabric were used in the tailoring and some 200,000 metres of fabric for shirts.
© The Peninsula 2005
