Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has unveiled new cabin crew uniforms designed by Pakistani fashion designer Hassan Sheheryar Yasin, widely known as HSY. The new collection was presented on October 22, 2026, and is scheduled to make its debut on October 31 aboard the airline’s inaugural Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner flight from London to Islamabad.
The uniform redesign is part of PIA’s broader efforts to modernise its image and update its onboard experience. According to the airline, the collection combines contemporary tailoring with elements inspired by Pakistan’s cultural heritage, while prioritising comfort and practicality for cabin crew members.
PIA selected HSY following a competitive showcase held in Karachi in September, where 10 Pakistani fashion designers presented concepts for the airline’s new uniforms. The designs were assessed by a panel comprising fashion industry figures and representatives with relevant industry experience.
The participating designers included Maheen Khan, Deepak Perwani, Faraz Manan, Nomi Ansari, Amir Adnan, Munib Nawaz, Ismail Farid, Generation, and the design team of Deepak and Fahad, alongside HSY.
The selection process considered innovation, quality and the ability to reflect PIA’s identity and Pakistan’s cultural heritage. HSY’s collection was ultimately chosen to represent the airline’s updated visual identity.
Yasin said designing uniforms for Pakistan’s national flag carrier involved reflecting national pride and the warmth of Pakistani hospitality. He also emphasised the importance of creating clothing that allows crew members to feel confident and comfortable while representing the country internationally.
According to PIA, the new collection follows a “lifestyle first” approach, with an emphasis on durability, ergonomic movement and suitability for long-haul flights.
The uniforms incorporate soft, breathable fabrics and structured tailoring. Their colour palette and detailing draw on Pakistani cultural craftsmanship while maintaining the professional appearance required in commercial aviation.
Cabin crew uniforms serve both functional and visual purposes. Crew members need clothing that accommodates movement during boarding, passenger assistance and other onboard responsibilities. PIA’s stated design priorities therefore combine practical requirements with a refreshed appearance intended to represent the airline.
The collection is scheduled to enter service on October 31, when crew members will wear the new uniforms aboard the airline’s inaugural Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner flight from London to Islamabad.
PIA has a longstanding history of working with established fashion designers to develop its cabin crew uniforms. In 1966, French designer Pierre Cardin created an A-line tunic and hood for the airline, establishing a distinctive look that became part of its visual identity.
In the 1970s, British designer Sir Hardy Amies, known for his work as a couturier to Queen Elizabeth II, contributed to PIA’s uniform designs. More recently, Pakistani designer Nomi Ansari’s uniform designs remained in use for approximately 12 years, according to the airline’s announcement.
The latest redesign continues this tradition of involving fashion designers in shaping the appearance of Pakistan’s national carrier. It also highlights the role of local fashion talent in developing a visual identity for an airline that serves domestic and international passengers.
The introduction of the new uniforms comes as PIA pursues changes aimed at updating its aircraft and passenger experience under its new management. The airline has highlighted initiatives involving modern aircraft, improvements to existing cabins and seating, and changes to onboard services.
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner flight scheduled for October 31 will provide the first opportunity for passengers to see the new uniforms in service. The London-to-Islamabad route is also an important international connection for the airline.
While the uniform collection updates PIA’s appearance, its broader modernisation efforts involve operational and passenger-service improvements as well. The long-term impact of these changes will depend on their implementation and the airline’s ability to deliver consistent service.
For HSY, the project adds a national airline uniform collection to his fashion portfolio. For PIA, the launch represents another step in refreshing its public image while maintaining a connection to its history and Pakistani cultural identity.
The new uniforms are scheduled to debut on October 31, 2026, aboard the airline’s inaugural Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner flight from London to Islamabad.
