Qantas is set to embark on a significant uniform redesign, marking its first refresh in over a decade. As the national carrier moves forward with an ambitious fleet renewal programme and prepares for the launch of Project Sunrise, it is reimagining one of the most recognisable symbols of its brand—the Qantas uniform.
The airline is enlisting top Australian designers to craft a look that embodies the next phase of Qantas’ identity. The final selection will be made in the coming months, with the new uniform set to debut in 2027.
Employee-Centric Approach
A key part of the redesign process is ensuring employee involvement. Qantas is surveying over 17,500 uniformed staff to ensure the new attire not only reflects the airline’s evolution but is also functional, comfortable, and suited to the needs of its workforce.
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson underscored the importance of this initiative:
“We have ambitious plans for the future, and transforming how we represent the brand is vital to that. Our uniform is a symbol of the Qantas spirit across the globe. With a growing international and domestic network, a historic fleet renewal programme underway, and the final frontier of aviation on the horizon, it’s time to define a new look for our people that embodies where we’re headed.”
Hudson also paid tribute to Martin Grant, who designed the current uniform in 2013, thanking him for his contributions over the past decade.
A Legacy of Distinctive Style
Throughout its 105-year history, Qantas has collaborated with renowned designers including Peter Morrissey, Yves Saint Laurent, George Gross & Harry Who, and Emilio Pucci. These uniforms have mirrored different eras of aviation, featuring everything from jungle green and aqua hues to the Wirriyarra boomerang print, celebrating Australia’s heritage.
This upcoming redesign will mark the eleventh iteration of the Qantas uniform, expected to strike a balance between heritage, contemporary aesthetics, and practicality.
Aligning with Industry Trends
Qantas’ decision to refresh its uniform aligns with a wider industry trend of airlines modernising their attire. Many carriers are now focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and enhanced functionality. Recently, Qantas’ subsidiary Jetstar introduced a Genevieve Smart-designed uniform, its first redesign since the airline’s inception in 2004.
Elsewhere, Emirates has launched new uniforms for VIP clients; while Virgin Atlantic and Alaska Airlines have launched gender-neutral and eco-friendly uniforms, reflecting the aviation sector’s broader shift towards contemporary, employee-driven designs.
Looking Ahead
With over 100 aircraft on order and ongoing investments in customer experience, Qantas’ uniform refresh is part of a broader brand transformation. As the airline prepares for Project Sunrise, which aims to revolutionise ultra-long-haul travel, its visual identity is evolving in tandem with its operational advancements.
By engaging its workforce and collaborating with leading Australian designers, Qantas is ensuring that its next uniform will be more than just a change in appearance—it will serve as a statement of progress, innovation, and national pride. The official designer selection is expected to be announced soon, setting the stage for a bold new look in 2027.
