Air India Express’ new cabin crew uniform brings together Indian textile traditions and the practical demands of airline operations, with the design process spanning nearly three years after the airline’s rebranding.
Designer Pooja Krishnan developed the uniform using banana crepe fabric, chosen for qualities such as comfort, breathability, durability and an elegant drape. The design aims to balance the visual appeal expected from a contemporary airline uniform with the demands of long working hours and movement during flights.
The uniform also forms part of Air India Express’ wider “Tales of India” design initiative, which draws inspiration from India’s regional art forms, crafts and cultural heritage. The cabin crew ensemble reflects this approach by bringing together influences from five traditional craft and textile traditions.
These include Tamil Nadu’s Kanjeevaram, Himachal Pradesh’s Pattu, Gujarat’s Patola, Assam’s Gamosa and Madhya Pradesh’s Bagh. Each tradition represents a different regional connection, allowing the uniform to incorporate references to India’s diverse textile heritage while maintaining a contemporary appearance.
The design story also highlights the amount of preparation behind the polished appearance associated with cabin crew roles. Krishnan noted that what passengers see as a glamorous profession is supported by considerable preparation and work behind the scenes.
By combining regional craft references with modern fabric and functional requirements, the new uniform attempts to present Indian cultural identity through an everyday working garment. The initiative reflects the airline’s broader effort to connect its visual identity with different parts of the country and their cultural traditions.