Turkish Airlines continues to impress us. We are experiencing a new dawn at the airline, which already carries well over 65million passengers per annum. Today saw the reveal of the airline’s new uniform which replaces the somewhat-dated previous threads which were sadly never going to turn heads.
Instead this new collection from Milan-based Haute Couturier Ettore Bilotta encapsulates the look of a modern, international carrier. The silhouettes might appear familiar, and there’s good reason, it was the same designer that brought the stylish Alitalia uniform that was quickly replaced earlier this year.
Featuring the Turkish Airlines’ signature red and complimented with a deep charcoal grey, the uniforms resemble the brand image of the carrier, and most likely gives us an insight into the colours of the new 787 and A350 cabins that will be rolled out next year.
The woven texture built into the female uniforms is elegant, chic and adds depth to the outfits. “Inspired by many classic elements of Turkish design and culture, the new uniforms incorporate traditional patterns found in artisanal glassware, ceramics and calligraphy with contemporary textures and details,” the company said in a statement.
Meanwhile men have been given a super-slick suit which is perfectly tailored and offers a contrasting trim to the lapels.
The biggest developments can be seen in the accessories. Gloves (even for men), hats and bags all add a fashion catwalk vibe. While many carriers use red in their uniforms, there are only a small handful that combine charcoal grey, so these uniforms will become easily identifiable and iconic in the many countries the carrier flies to.
We think Turkish have got these new threads spot on. It’s shaking up the image of the carrier, and when they roll out at the end of October, the same time the airline up roots and relocates to the New Istanbul International Airport, Turkish Airlines will certainly be radically changing its proposition, and with new business class cabins just a few months away too, 2019 could be a very exciting year for them. Now, if only they would sell the accessories as a capsule collection…
The Big Picture
TheDesignAir 
Nice to see how Bilotta has basically photocopied the Alitalia model… Let’s hope he’ll bring more luck to TK than he did at AZ or EY, both of whom are in deep financial trouble.