Air India Express has introduced new uniforms for its cabin crew and other frontline staff, rolling them out from September 1. The airline said in a statement that the uniforms are being introduced across cabin crew, airport services, aviation security, and flight operations teams, reflecting the carrier’s evolving identity and its ongoing transformation of the guest experience.
The design draws on the airline’s ‘Tales of India’ initiative, which has already brought distinctive tail art inspired by Indian art, crafts, and cultural heritage to its aircraft. The uniforms incorporate design elements influenced by traditional textiles from different parts of India, including Kanjeevaram from Tamil Nadu, Pattu from Himachal Pradesh, Patola from Gujarat, Gamosa from Assam, and Bagh from Madhya Pradesh. The collection uses contemporary silhouettes inspired by the traditional kurti, paired with tailored jackets, scarves, and pocket squares.
Anchored in Air India Express’ Xpress Blue palette with accents of Xpress Orange, the uniforms are intended to create a visual connection with the airline’s brand. The designs were created in-house by Air India Express designer Pooja Krishnan, who worked on the women’s cabin crew uniforms as well as outfits for airport services, aviation security, and flight operations. The men’s cabin crew uniform was developed with Trent Limited. The uniforms use banana crepe fabric, chosen for qualities such as breathability, comfort, and durability.
Sunil Suresh, head of marketing, e-commerce & loyalty at the Air India group, said in the airline’s statement: “Our frontline teams shape some of the most memorable moments in every guest’s journey, and these new uniforms are designed to reflect their energy, professionalism and Inspired by the spirit of our Tales of India initiative, the uniforms thoughtfully bring together cultural authenticity, comfort and functionality for our teams.”
The rollout drew attention online. Some social media users responded positively, with one X user writing “Looks nice actually...” another calling it “an upgrade,” and someone else saying “Not bad at all.” Others expressed confusion about the colour choice, with one person asking “Isn't blue a little weird for a red airline?” and another joking that the airline was trying to “beat 6E at everything,” referring to IndiGo’s blue branding.