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History of the Flight Jackets
As recently as World War I when planes had open cockpits, pilots started seeking garments to provide warmth and comfort in the bitter temperatures of the open skies. Thus the start of the historical “Bomber Jacket” or “Flight Jacket” was born.
Over time, there have been many variations from the unofficial and popular early leather bomber jackets of 1915 through 1917 to subsequent official military issue bomber jackets such as the 1931 “A2 Bomber Jacket.”
Originally, pilots and crews used whatever they could find because no formal or official gear was issued to handle the extreme-hazardous cold and weather environments the pilots encountered in world war I. Weighty long leather jackets rapidly became desired with tight snug cuffs around the wrists, tight fit around the waists, and high collars to help protect from the cold. These are the design principles that are at the heart of what today we commonly think of as a flight jacket or bomber jacket.
At the conclusion of world war I, the United States army formed the Aviation Clothing Board and started distributing these heavy leather jackets.
By the time WW II broke out, the United States Air Corp was distributing the A-2 Bomber Jacket. The Navy and Marine Corp were issuing a similar jacket that was known as the G-1.
As aircraft power developed durring the war, airplanes were now flying at significantly higher altitudes and dramatically higher speeds. Temperatures inside these planes – often flying with open doors – plunged! And their stylish bomber jackets started to give way to a much warmer jacket with a lining of wool or fur. These warmer jackets were popularized by the B3 Bomber Flight Jacket, a large wool and fur lined jacket with large cargo pockets.
Ground crew and flight crews soon adopted the pilot’s B3 Bomber Jacket, and the new B7 Flight Jacket became the popular rage.
A decade later saw the high-tech age of the jet with its enclosed compartment and now attention needed to be focused on the warmth, comfort, and safety of the pilots. The B-15 Flight Jacket was designed out of nylon and other synthetic materials to keep the pilot both warm and dry. The lighter weight and more flexible design was also appreciated. As jet technology continued to develop, the MA-1 jacket removed its fur linings because they interfered with the harness of the pilot’s parachute. Today, you can often find both the B-15 and the Leather MA1 Flight Jackets with and without the fur collars.
A stylish flight jacket or bomber jacket is considered both a stylish and practical piece of clothing. Suitable for a evening out on the town or a comfortable outdoor excursion – and must be in every person’s closet.
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