British Airways has unveiled a new uniform collection for the first time in nearly 20 years — and it features hijab and tunic options for Muslim women.

The collection, created by fashion designer Ozwald Boateng OBE, will be worn by more than 30,000 of its staff from Spring 2023.

The move to include a modest clothing option has received widespread praise from Muslims on social media.  

“Including this option may seem simple but to many who wear the hijab, it’s a step in allowing them to feel more included and welcomed,” said poet Asthma Elbadawi on Twitter.  

Another user Fariya Abass said: “Love the new British Airways cabin crew uniform which now includes a hijab option.”

Hajer Naili said on Twitter: #BritishAirways has unveiled a new uniform, the first in 20 years, and it includes a modest outfit for Muslim female cabin crew. The outfit is made up of a tunic and a hijab. Bravo @British_Airways for choosing inclusion over exclusion 👏”

“Something that inspired and empowered”

The collection took inspiration from the airline’s staff and their experiences in flight.

Boateng said: “One of my main objectives was to create something that spoke to, and for, the airline’s colleagues.

“Something that inspired and empowered them, encouraged them to conduct their roles with pride and most importantly to ensure that they felt seen and heard.

“Although the airline has a strong heritage, it was imperative to support in creating a fresh narrative of change and transcendence, while remaining timeliness.”

The airline tested the uniform over the last six months in secret trials. During the trials, colleagues gave feedback on the practicability of the garments, resulting in amendments ahead of the rollout.

Sustainability and quality have been front and centre throughout the uniform design process. More than 90% of the garments are produced using sustainable fabric from recycled polyester blends.

Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, said: “Our uniform is an iconic representation of our brand, something that will carry us into our future, representing the very best of modern Britain and helping us deliver a great British original service for our customers.

“From the very start this has been about our people. We wanted to create a uniform collection that our people are proud to wear and with the help of over 1,500 colleagues, we are confident that we have delivered this.”