The new JAL uniforms, which also feature pants for the first time, are completely new.

JAL is currently promoting the slogan "Fly for it! Together, we can fly further" to support those who are working hard towards 2020 and beyond. The first project to embody the thoughts behind this slogan was the JAL New Uniform Development Project, which began in August 2018. The development of the new uniforms, which will be the 11th generation since the first uniforms and the first in seven years since the uniforms worn in 2013, was a big challenge as it was necessary to complete the selection process from planning to prototyping and practical application in the short period of about eight months until production begins in March 2019.

We approached the design and functionality from various angles.

Thanks to you, the previous uniform was well received in various quarters. Based on this, it was necessary for the new uniform to be of high quality and functionality.

The uniforms for flight attendants and ground staff, which are the ones most visible to customers, were designed by creative director Yasutoshi Esumi. With the theme of "Hybrid Modern Beauty," design work began to express "sophisticated hybrid beauty" and "modern beauty created by hybrids."

It starts with drawing up a design, then creating a sample. Using the sample, we test the ease of use, durability, comfort, and other aspects until we arrive at the ideal uniform. It's a painstaking process. As part of this, we had Esumi observe the actual work environment, including inside the aircraft, and we also took steps to gather a wide range of opinions from the field.

In addition, for the first time, JAL invited customers to comment on the uniform design on its website. We received more than 50,000 responses, and these comments were also reflected in the design of the new uniforms.

The unusual design has been carefully crafted without compromising usability.

This is how a uniform was born that is stylish, elegant, and highly functional. It is not only beautiful to look at, but is also carefully designed to maximize the comfort of the wearer.

The jackets and dresses feature innovative designs that combine beauty and comfort, using the latest techniques to combine different materials - woven for the body and ribbed (knitted) for the waist.

In addition, the sleeves of the dress and top are balloon sleeves, which are extremely rare for airline uniforms, in order to create an unprecedented elegant impression. Based on feedback from flight attendants, the chiffon balloon sleeves have been designed to be voluminous so as not to interfere with work.

I will wear the scarf you designed.

Another major feature is the introduction of pants for the first time in JAL's flight attendant uniforms. The lineup was created with diversity in mind, and we wanted our staff to be able to work with enthusiasm. The stylish and easy-to-move pants style has been very well received by the flight attendants who have actually worn them. In addition, the new uniform features a large scarf, allowing the wearer to express their individuality in their outfit.

The scarves will be available for a limited time only during the summer, when we will be welcoming many guests from all over the world, and we plan to wear designs submitted through public competition. We received many submissions based on the theme of "scarves that convey the charms of Japan," and as all of the designs were wonderful and we were touched by the passion of each of the applicants, it was extremely difficult to select a design.

Five final candidates were selected from the submitted designs, and then the final selection was made through a vote by all JAL Group employees. The final design will be announced at a later date, so please look forward to it.

The manufacturing process for the new uniforms was also "designed" with an eye to the future.

In addition to flight attendants and ground staff, maintenance engineers and ground handling staff are also wearing new uniforms. Designed by Descente Japan, in addition to coveralls, separate work clothes that can be used in a variety of working styles have been introduced. Outerwear such as raincoats and cold weather gear are from Montbell, which can reduce stress even in harsh weather conditions.

Well, this project is not just about "making good uniforms". In order to contribute to the SDGs through uniforms, there are other ideas besides design and usability. We also placed emphasis on environmental initiatives such as using recycled polyester and thoroughly reusing materials, which has been promoted since the previous uniforms.

In order to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society, we conducted an SMETA audit (an audit system to check for the presence of child labor and unpaid labor) based on the "Sustainable Sourcing Code" presented at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Based on this, we select production contractors with consideration for human rights and working conditions.

All of the factories that we are outsourcing production to are Japanese companies, and we have confirmed that they are being properly managed from the perspective of the SDGs. It is only thanks to the high quality of Japanese manufacturing that this new JAL uniform project was made possible.

We look forward to welcoming you again in our new uniforms.

Thus, new uniforms were completed for approximately 22,000 employees. We often hear passengers on board say, "Your uniforms have changed. They look great," and all the JAL staff are very happy about this. In addition to being stylish and elegant, the flight attendants have also commented that the new uniforms are comfortable to wear and make it easier to move around and work in the cabin. They also seem to have put a lot of thought into how they tie their scarves.

Although the self-restraint on going out and travel restrictions will continue for a while, the next time you board a JAL plane, please take a look at our new uniforms. From the ground staff and cabin attendants to the maintenance staff waving outside the window, we look forward to welcoming you with a new attitude and outfit.

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