Celebrity fashion designer Manish Malhotra to design Air India crew's new uniform

Air India, after a tradition spanning six decades of female cabin crew wearing sarees, is reportedly contemplating a change in their uniforms. According to insiders, the national carrier is in the process of revamping its female cabin crew attire and is expected to introduce a more modern outfit by November 2023. While designer Manish Malhotra is rumored to be working on the new uniforms, specifics remain under wraps due to a non-disclosure agreement.

Options such as churidars are being considered as an alternative to the traditional saree, but sarees may still have a place in the revamped uniform choices, with ready-to-wear versions resembling the classic attire.

Air India's association with sarees dates back to 1962 when the legendary JRD Tata initiated the shift from skirts, jackets, and hats. The move was hailed for its elegance and represented a source of pride for the female crew members, who were trained in the art of draping sarees correctly.

The new uniforms, set to align with Air India's rebranding featuring deep red, aubergine, and gold colors, will also be adopted by Vistara's cabin crew following the merger with Air India. CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson announced this change during a recent rebranding event, with the new look set to debut on the A350 aircraft arriving in October.