Uniform fabric of Akasa Air's crew made from pet bottle plastic found in marine waste

MUMBAI: Akasa Air, the startup carrier promoted by ace stock market investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, on Monday unveiled the first look of its crew uniform as it gets ready for its first flight likely by the end of this month.

Akasa Air, which took delivery of its first Boeing 737 Max aircraft on June 21, plans to conduct proving flights this week, after which it will receive an Air Operator's Permit to begin commercial operations.

The company said that the focus of the uniform fit is to provide the best stretch possible that will allow for comfort during their busy flight schedules.

The company said it is the first Indian airline to introduce custom trousers and jackets, whose fabric is specially made for Akasa Air (using recycled polyester fabric made from pet bottle plastic salvaged from marine litter), and comfortable sneakers for the airline crew keeping ergonomics, aesthetics and comfort in mind.

"We have designed a uniform in which our team feels both proud and comfortable as they direct their energy to ensure a warm, friendly, and efficient flying experience for all our passengers," said Belson Coutinho, Co-founder and Chief Marketing & Experience Officer, Akasa Air.

The company said that keeping in mind crew members' mobile lifestyle and long hours of standing, Vanilla Moon lightweight sneakers contain extra cushioning from heel to toe to ensure better support.

The sneaker's sole is carved from recycled rubber and is made without the use of plastic.

"We are delighted to share this shoe design --- which is sustainably produced, functional, comfortable, gender-neutral and contemporary," said Deepika Mehra, Founder, Vanilla Moon.

Designed by Rajesh Pratap Singh, a Delhi-based fashion designer, the jacket takes inspiration from the Indian bandh gala and is forward-looking in a modern version of the garment.

"These uniforms are a perfect amalgamation of style and sustainability and reflect Akasa Air's core values. From concept to the final outcome, it has been an exciting journey for me to work on these designs and present one of the most unique, sustainable and functional uniforms of our times," said Singh, who worked with the new airline to create the uniform.

Earlier, the airline had tweeted a black-and-white teaser video of the crew's uniform. Responding to the tweet, Sanjiv Kapoor, CEO, Jet Airways, said: "A black and white pre-launch teaser. Now, where have I seen that before? Jokes aside love the sneakers! Reminds me of the casual jeans and kurtis weekend uniform we had introduced at SpiceJet in 2014. Casual and fun works well for LCCs. Good an Indian LCC will have it now."

With PTI inputs