Delta employees are getting their first glimpse of an all-new, modern uniform collection, created in partnership with GPS Apparel by Gap Inc. The prototypes, which have been in development for over a year and a half, were designed with feedback from Delta’s 70,000 uniformed employees at the forefront of the process.
The airline partnered with Gap Inc. in 2022 to leverage their extensive product design expertise and sourcing capabilities. Through various methods, including job shadows, focus groups, surveys, and interviews, Gap Inc. gathered feedback from more than 20,000 employees on future uniform designs. This feedback has been instrumental in creating prototypes that prioritize comfort, functionality, and a modern, elevated look.
The new uniform prototypes feature a classic color palette of deep navy blues and rich burgundy, with accents of bright red and white, inspired by Delta’s brand identity and heritage. The collection offers a cohesive and elevated look while allowing employees to choose between different styles and looks. The garments are made from OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100-certified fabrics and components, purpose-built for each division and role, with functional elements to help employees perform their jobs well and wear their uniforms with pride.
Designers have incorporated Delta’s iconic widget logo throughout the collection, both overtly and subtly. The widget, first introduced in 1959 and seen on the tails of Delta aircraft, represents the airline’s spirit and culture, with its flat base symbolizing a solid foundation and the top portion pointing skyward, reminding employees to always keep climbing.
The process of outfitting Delta employees in the new uniforms will take time. The airline plans to begin extensive wear testing for each uniform garment later this fall, allowing employees to continue influencing the fit, form, and function of the new collection. The roll-out of new uniform pieces across all workgroups is not expected for the next few years.
“Delta has tens of thousands of uniformed employees, all with different needs and preferences,” said Ranjan Goswami, SVP of Customer Experience Design. “That means any evolution of the uniform program will take time and deliberation to get right. We are committed to using this time to listen, learn and iterate as we work toward a new look – one that reflects and celebrates who we are as Delta.”
