Budget airline EasyJet, known for its garish orange colour scheme, is
set to trial wearable tech uniform created by London fashion tech label
CuteCircuit in 2016 as part of the airline’s 20th birthday celebrations.
The new wearable tech design for cabin crew will feature LEDs embedded
through the outfit, on the shoulders, lapels and hems, displaying
information like flight numbers and destinations and adding extra lighting
in emergency situations. In addition, the uniforms have microphones built
in, enable them to communicate with passengers, pilots and other crew
members.
EasyJet’s head of cabin crew Tina Milton, said: “Our crew’s primary
concern is for the safety of all passengers so it is really exciting to be
working on this pioneering new technology which could transform the
capability of our uniforms, helping crew to be more easily identified in an
emergency as well as helping them to provide great service to passengers.”
CuteCircuit, known for designing a dress that receives and displays
tweets worn by Nicole Scherzinger, has also designed a uniform for the
ground crew and engineers also adorned with LEDs, allowing them to work
hands-free on inspection and maintenance. Their uniforms will also feature
cameras to enable remote diagnostics and air quality sensors, and the
wearable tech uniform has also been specially designed to improve
visibility to help in situations.
EasyJet’s engineering director Ian Davies added: “With features like the
LED hood and video streaming and communications capability these amazing
designs offer very practical solutions for engineers working on the ramp
whilst enhancing safety at the same time.”
Francesca Rosella, chief creative director and co-founder of
CuteCircuit, said: “We are excited to be working with easyJet in creating
the future of aviation. The cabin crew uniforms and engineers’ uniforms
represent cutting edge developments in wearable technology and are a first
in the aviation industry.
“The uniforms unite fashionable style with novel functionalities,
increasing safety and communication with passengers to create a truly
unique inflight experience. We designed with the crew needs in mind and are
looking forward to starting trials in 2016.”
Of course in addition to all the wearable tech, the uniforms also sport
the company’s usual orange and black colour scheme. Trials of the easyJet
uniforms are set to begin in 2016.
CuteCircuit has been pushing the boundaries of wearable technology since
its launch in 2004 and has introduced many ground-breaking ideas to the
fashion world by integrating beauty and functionality through the use of
smart textiles and micro-electronics. The fashion house has also done
collaborations with U2 and Katy Perry, but this marks the first airline
partnership.
Images: EasyJet