Delta Air Lines has unveiled a new uniform collection for 65,000 of its employees, a move that comes more than six years after its previous uniform launch resulted in health complaints and legal challenges. The Atlanta-based carrier partnered with retailer Lands' End for the new designs, which will be worn by flight attendants, airport customer service agents, and maintenance crews.
The new collection, showcased at the Delta Flight Museum in Atlanta, prioritizes employee feedback and material safety, featuring a classic color palette of navy and burgundy. The full rollout is scheduled for 2027, following an extensive testing period set to begin this summer.
Key Takeaways
- Delta's new uniforms are designed and manufactured by Lands' End for 65,000 global employees.
- The design process heavily incorporated employee feedback to address fit, function, and comfort.
- All fabrics are OEKO-TEX certified to ensure they are free from harmful substances, a direct response to health issues with the previous collection.
- The collection includes first-ever maternity wear for maintenance staff and an elite line for premium service employees.
- A full rollout is planned for 2027 after a trial period involving 1,500 employees this summer.
A Fresh Look with a Nod to Tradition
Delta's new apparel line was revealed during a fashion show-style event where employees walked a runway set up inside a Boeing 767 aircraft. The collection marks a return to the airline's iconic colors, moving away from the controversial "Passport Plum" shade introduced in 2018.
For flight attendants and airport agents, the core collection includes a classic wrap dress, a design that was reportedly a crowd favorite at the launch event. Other options include sweaters, pants, and jackets in deep navy and rich burgundy tones. The designs focus on a professional and timeless aesthetic.
The airline's elite "Red Coat" customer service agents will receive a distinct V-neck dress in scarlet red, maintaining their visible and iconic presence in airports. According to company executives, the goal was to create a look that would stand out.
"I think we will be turning heads in every concourse around the world," said Ekrem Dimbiloglu, Delta's managing director of brand experience, during the event. He added the new look could "make many other airlines jealous."
Prioritizing Safety and Employee Feedback
The development of the new uniforms was a multi-year process heavily influenced by direct input from the employees who will wear them daily. Delta executives emphasized that they conducted extensive surveys, focus groups, and job shadowing sessions to understand the practical needs of their workforce.
This employee-centric approach was a crucial part of rebuilding trust after the previous uniform launch. The 2018 collection, designed by Zac Posen, led to thousands of employees opting out and filing lawsuits, citing skin rashes and other allergic reactions.
The new uniform fabrics are OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified. This global certification confirms that every component of the garment has been tested for harmful substances and is safe for human health. This was a key requirement for the new collection.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian addressed the lengthy timeline for the new collection. "It’s been a long, long coming but it’s the reason it took so long is we wanted to make sure we got it right," he stated on Monday.
New Designs for a Diverse Workforce
The collection introduces several firsts for the airline, reflecting a focus on inclusivity and specialized roles. For the first time, Delta will offer maternity wear for its maintenance employees, including specially designed bib overalls.
Another notable addition is an "elite collection" for employees who work with premium cabin travelers. These garments feature a subtle jacquard print, offering a more distinguished look for staff in Delta One and other premium environments. The airline also partnered with luxury Italian brand Missoni for a series of accessories, including scarves and pocket squares, to complement the business class experience.
Key Features of the New Collection:
- Classic Colors: A return to a navy and burgundy palette.
- Popular Designs: The reintroduction of a fan-favorite wrap dress.
- Specialized Wear: A new red dress for Red Coat agents.
- Inclusive Options: The first-ever maternity bib overalls for maintenance staff.
- Premium Line: An exclusive jacquard print collection for employees serving premium travelers.
The Path to a Full Rollout
Before the 65,000 employees worldwide receive their new apparel, Delta is launching a thorough testing phase. This summer, approximately 1,500 employees will wear the new uniforms to provide final feedback on fit, durability, and function in real-world conditions.
Background: The decision to redesign followed significant issues with the 2018 "Passport Plum" uniforms. The airline spent millions on the redesign process and ended a previous partnership with Gap Inc. before selecting Lands' End for the final collection. The focus this time has been on a collaborative and safety-first approach.
Ranjan Goswami, Delta's senior vice president of customer experience, framed the launch as a milestone for the airline as it approaches its 100th anniversary. "This is our second start to our next century," he said, highlighting the desire to create a "better way to design" that puts employees first.
The comprehensive testing and feedback loops are designed to prevent the problems of the past, ensuring the final product meets the needs and safety standards required by its global team. The full, system-wide launch is anticipated in 2027.
