Aer Lingus has announced its plans to redesign its uniform, a process which will be led by renowned Irish designer Louise Kennedy.
The newly designed uniform will be revealed in spring 2019 and will be worn by all frontline ground agents and cabin crew.
The famous ‘teal green’ uniform that is currently in effect was also designed by Louise Kennedy and makes history in that it has been the longest-running Aer Lingus uniform – first taking to the ‘runway’ in 1998.
Aer Lingus has embarked on a significant journey in the last three years which has seen the iconic Aer Lingus brand, steeped in history, move into the modern day and the introduction of a new modernised uniform brings this journey full circle.
Designed by Sybil Connolly of Pimms in 1945, Aer Lingus’ first-ever uniform was a military-style rich brown suit which then became green a few years later in 1948.
A total of ten Aer Lingus uniform designs have been created from a host of leading Irish fashion names including Irene Gilbert, Neillí Mulcahy, Digby Morton, Ib Jorgensen, Paul Costello and Louise Kennedy.
Speaking at the announcement, renowned Irish fashion designer Kennedy said: “Some 20 years after we first designed the current and longest-standing uniform, I am thrilled to continue the design story of the celebrated Aer Lingus uniform.
“To be able to now design a brand-new uniform for the airline is an opportunity we very much appreciate and relish.
“In fact, it is an absolute honour.”
Aer Lingus carried out extensive feedback with staff across many departments within the airline to get their views on the current uniform and to discuss what the new uniform should address in terms of frontline ground agents and cabin crews’ needs in today’s working environment.
Mike Rutter, chief operating officer added: “The redesign of the Aer Lingus uniform will make ripples not just within our own airline but throughout Ireland and far beyond.
“The Aer Lingus uniform is the very fabric of our brand and together with the shamrock on the tailfins instantly depicts our rich history and gives our guests who fly with us a warm sense of Ireland and Irish hospitality.”