Low-cost airline easyJet is introducing a new uniform for cabin crew and pilots - each outfit made from around 45 recycled plastic bottles as part of its commitment to mitigate waste.
Manufactured by Northern-Ireland based Tailored Image, the new uniform will be introduced this month. The roll-out is estimated to prevent around half a million plastic bottles from ending up as plastic waste each year.
The new fabric, adapted to the airline's current style, was first trialled last year for suitability in cabin and flight deck environments. Compared to the non-recycled alternative, it provides more elasticity, a four-way stretch, improving fit and freedom of movement for enhanced comfort and durability.
This development can lead to it being long-lasting for the wearer, reducing the need for more uniform items to be produced in the long term.
The airline has already taken steps to reduce plastic onboard as it continues to reduce the number of single-use items used on its flights.
Tina Milton, director of cabin services at easyJet, said: "Climate change is an issue for all of us, and at easyJet, we are looking at all parts of our operation to see where we can reduce carbon emissions and reduce waste.
"We are excited to be debuting this new pilot and cabin crew uniform made from recycled plastic bottles and to introduce it for our pilots and cabin crew colleagues. We know that sustainability is an important issue for them and also for our customers."
Bernard Birt, managing director of Tailored Image, said: "We were excited from the outset to be involved in this project and are delighted that the success of the new easyJet wardrobe demonstrates the result of our award-winning customer-focused approach and our ability to meet even the most exacting briefs."
From its first flight over 25 years ago, easyJet has been focused on being as carbon efficient as possible adding more modern, fuel and carbon-efficient planes; flying them in ways that avoid noise and unnecessary use of energy; whilst still flying aircraft full of passengers.
Since 2000 easyJet has reduced the carbon emissions for each kilometre flown by a passenger by more than a third. Initiatives have included introducing lightweight carpets, trolleys and seats, single-engine taxiing and removing paper manuals from aircraft.
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