Philippine Airlines (PAL) has launched specially designed uniforms that have protective gear incorporated in them for its cabin crew as the airline carries out repatriation flights in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.
Designed by Filipino couturier Edwin Tan, PAL says the new protective suits are “fit” but also functional which will allow cabin crew to perform their duties. The new uniforms also feature the colours of the airline. The red, yellow, and blue stripes are a nod to the flag of the Philippines.
“The detail is a subtle branding for PAL. We didn’t have time to print or embroider so we came up with the idea of mimicking or reworking the ‘flag’ logo of PAL,” said Tan.
“We used a non-porous material for the PPEs [personal protective equipment]. A material with substantial weight to give it a better fall than generic PPEs,” he added.
The carrier said in a statement on Facebook that the cabin crew uniform for the coronavirus “season” will showcase various looks, designs and colours, before PAL decides on a “single, branded look” for its flights “this season”.
The uniform made its debut on a Philippine Airlines repatriation flight to Auckland from Manila on Monday. There were 184 Kiwi passport holders or permanent residents onboard, according to New Zealand-based news website Newshub.
Philippine Airlines has cancelled all domestic and international flights until May, but the airline is operating repatriation flights.
The carrier said it is planning to resume some international and domestic flights on select routes in May.
A few carriers have started to equip cabin crew with protective gear to minimise exposure to the virus on flights. Emirates said recently that all of its cabin crew, boarding agents and ground staff who have direct contact with passengers are now wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes a protective disposable gown over their uniforms, and a safety visor, in addition to masks and gloves.
