Pilot Uniforms, How and why?

In this video I will show you what forms part of MY pilot uniform and why it is SO important that you keep your uniform in good shape and act in a responsible way when you wear it.
The video about Flaps, Slats and Slot's are still missing some key video sequences so It is still under constrction.
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[@LMBraun]

I remember when I was about 6 or 7, we were waiting in the terminal and my father pointed out the captain of our aircraft, showing me how to recognise a captain by the number stripes on his arm, etc. I remember myself thinking that this was someone important who deserved respect; like a police officer or a soldier, and I was happy he was in charge of our plane. Small details often have a larger impact than most people think. Well done.

[@Stephanie-vt8xi]

oooo wow! awesome!

[@WWG1-WGA]

Yeah ! For me use to be the same , they where kind of authority, the good one and best

[@hi-qn2xt]

Nice 👍

[@lindadoerr7919]

I know this is an "older" video for you, but as a non-pilot who found your site fairly recently and really enjoys your style, l want to say how much I appreciate your PROFESSIONALISM, whether describing emergency descent procedures or how to wear your tie. Thank you! ✈️

[@judywaits4u]

As a retired nurse I can say that when I became a nurse and wore my (Now old fashioned) uniform it actually gave me confidence and the patients were more confident about their nurses. Our nurses hats where I trained were very fancy and we had a love, hate relationship with them because they were a pain in the kneck to get them in the right place but we also looked superior to nurses at other hospitals. Then I became an army nursing officer and of course the uniform was part of who we were and we also had much fancier hats compared to most civilian nurses. Even today I still think that a man wearing a three piece suit and a tie is more attractive than the average man. I am not interested in working uniforms men wear but dress uniforms are something else.

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I liked it when doctors and nurses wore different uniforms. Nowadays, everyone wears scrubs, from doctors to cleaning staff, and I don’t know if it’s ok to ask for water or something like that because I don’t want to offend it if isn’t their job (I’m talking about as an in-patient). One time I asked one man in my room “are you my nurse?” and he answered “it doesn’t matter what I am”, how unprofessional. It matters to us patients, there are enough unknowns and confusion while in the hospital without that, especially if receiving certain medicines. One nurse I really had a high opinion of wrote his name, title “your nurse”, the day of the week and the date on the whiteboard, and it really helped me stay oriented, as I was recovering from mechanical intubation and induced coma (had sepsis/pneumonia, my only extensive hospital stay). I was a little confused and found it difficult to communicate for the first day or so.

[@freedomloverusa3030]

@@kimberlyperrotis8962 I found scrubs extremely practical for healthcare professionals in general, and nurses in particular.

[@nomore6167]

@@kimberlyperrotis8962 "One time I asked one man in my room 'are you my nurse?' and he answered 'it doesn’t matter what I am', how unprofessional" - I would say it all depends on how he said it. You interpreted it as an unprofessional response, meaning you probably interpreted it as a dismissal and an uncaring, unhelpful attitude. Without hearing his tone and seeing his face for context, I interpreted his statement to mean "it doesn't matter what I am because we're all here to help you, so if I'm not the appropriate person, then I'll get the appropriate person".

[@literallyshaking8019]

The answer to so many “why do airlines do this?” questions are: “Because Pan Am”

[@nikitavasiutin5753]

I think that clothes also affect yourself. When you dressed in a professional unifurm, you also feel that you must to match that professionalism. ...and you feel the oposite, when you not dressed neatly.

[@theinspiringengineer-railw153]

I remember a time when a flight was held up as the pilot became unavaiable, so a pilot working for the same airline who was on the flight as a passenger with his family going on holiday, offered to fly the plane as he flew that route as his work, so he flew the plane in his holiday clothes :D

[@korenn9381]

That was fortuitous! But what did the crew do for the return jouney?

[@ayla6854]

​@@korenn9381Late answer, but likely another pilot was found for the return trip, a standby pilot perhaps or the return trip was supposed to be flown by another pilot and crew anyway

[@Kr0noZ]

Well, it's all about that air of authority. This is really good advice btw, it also applies to all other profession where people are routinely wearing uniforms. Imagine a police officer or a firefighter captain, they all make sure that they are clearly visible and appear professional in order to have people pay attention, and in many cases that is how they're maintaining security and order.

[@gcorriveau6864]

Good post. thanks for reminding me of that first time I put on The Uniform. I always felt conspicuous walking through the terminal full of passengers after a major accident where questions about a pilot's performance were being raised. Yes - the uniform represents all airline pilots... I find short sleeves are more practical for the flight deck environment (more physical movement and reaching - and extremes of heat and cold - compared to the average office). However, some pilots prefer long sleeves in winter or for UV protection. After my first few years I switched to the practicality of the "less elegant' clip-on tie for security issues (both industrial and/or human) and for comfort. (see previous notes about flight deck 'gymnastics' and temperature variations. ;-) ...

[@mikegallegos7]

You look sharp, Captain.

[@MentourPilot]

Thank you!

[@vim66]

Uniforms alone can distinguish between a professional and a layman.The moment one don's a uniform , you become a part of the company , its culture and history.

[@MentourPilot]

True that!

[@dpm-jt8rj]

@@MentourPilot Probably before your time, Pan Am Captains and FOs (FEs as well) wore a white hat and they stood out in a crowd. A few years ago I noticed that some airlines had gold stripes and others had silver stripes (epaulets and jacket sleeves), I guess it depends on the taste of the ones writing out the paychecks. I don't remember seeing pilots with double breasted jackets, that is a really sharp look Petter! Maybe Mr O'Leary wanted to save the cost of uniform hats?

[@dpm-jt8rj]

@@MentourPilot Also I have seen a lot of corporate pilots who are in that position for the long haul (pardon the pun) wear long sleeve uniform shirts and I think that would be more cumbersome than practical.

[@EleanorPeterson]

vim66 - You're absolutely right. With hindsight, it's exactly the mind-set that adults try to impress on children with old-fashioned school uniforms. Sometimes it works; more often it doesn't. Military uniforms have a more 'brutal' application - the need to obey, kill and die when so ordered. Significantly, in all of the armed forces one salutes the uniform, not the man wearing it. For an airline pilot or a ship's captain there's a vast amount of responsibility attached to the uniform. As you say, with hundreds of lives at stake, it's only right that the person in charge should reflect that level of expectation and responsibility by paying close attention to not only their appearance, but also to their demeanour. Being a 'professional' means so much more than merely being paid to do a job!

[@jackybacky]

I love the pilots uniform, have done ever since I i can remember. It is my dream to become a pilot. However, I currently work in anesthesiology, I wear casual clothes to work and change in to scrubs. Does this mean I am not a professional ?

[@friendme1032]

It’s true the uniform is the first image as model for the pilot. Give trust, respect and power of the responsibility. Thank you for your great video

[@mandolinic]

The importance of the pilot's hat was explained in an episode of the BBC radio comedy show "Cabin Pressure". In an emergency, the passengers immediately recognise the pilot's authority, which can make the difference between life and death when things turn nasty.

[@zogzog1063]

A week before my first day at a law firm I bought two expensive dark suits. I thought that that even if I did not know what I was doing at least I would look the part.

[@no_handle_required]

I'm not a pilot, nor will I ever be one, but I enjoy these videos and the professionalism you portray.

[@Ambulance104]

I just found your channel today, and i really like it! I think, what you said about uniforms, that you wear a uniform you represent all the people who wears the same, its really true, and its true about all of those who wear some kind of unifom.

[@amonganns8647]

Pilots are role models for everyone! Much respect for pilots. I find so interesting your channel

[@nassplease]

I love every detail of the video... Before I used to always see pilots to be sorts of people from a different world mysteriously, but since I started watching ur videos I feel this personal closeness and connection into the pilots world... If there's ever a KZbin videos award, I'd say u deserve to win every category.

[@TakeDeadAim]

One of the basic tenants of rank as a Captain regardless whether you're flying for an airline or serving in the Navy is "When in command...COMMAND". You must not only look like you're in control but act and look the part as well. That said, nothing beats the confidence of wearing two star Admiral boards occasionally just to keep things fresh up front and to remind those pesky JO's that I'm the man they inspire to...but will fall short of...being lol! Seriously though...good channel and if you make it to Oshkosh some day let me know...I'm well connected there.

[@worldwide8553]

Must be a good day when you get an extra band/stripe on your uniform! :)

[@raymondmei3039]

im not a airline pilot. in fact i am working in the financial industry. i love the way you portray and describe the importance of the uniform and how and why it needs to be wore correctly. the messages / Take out after watching this video, 2 key words influential and discipline. i am hoping if you can be my mentor in my career as I find that you can influence me and point me to the right direction when I am lost and when I am struggling in dealing With people, colleagues and hierarchy at work. Thank you in advance and i look forward to hearing from you soon. Merry Christmas. Raymond

[@matts4598]

I don’t work in aviation, but I love your videos. I was in the US Navy and always wondered about the commercial pilot uniforms, and you’re absolutely right about them - if you’re going to wear a uniform, that every piece should be tidy and neat as a whole. I also agree about the hats (we call them covers).

[@astudentpilotlife]

When I was a little boy and whenever I travel to a different country, I always think of the pilot in uniform as a very high skilled, professional and expect them to know everything. It just WOW me and I have so much respect for them and ever since I have been interested into the uniform and because of the uniform, now I am I am in love with flying and knowing that one day that i will just be like them. I strongly agree that the uniform is a very powerful tool as same as the uniform policeman. I am so inspired by your video work and explaining so much and easy to follow for many of us young dreamer to get a dream come true. Thank you Mentour Pilot, so much for the opportunity by making these video! AV8R's!

[@kathy13volpe]

Very professional podcast. I think that pilots are role models for everyone. Thank you .

[@MentourPilot]

Great to hear that you liked it!

[@franknibley431]

Kathy volpe-schaffer agreed

[@charleswickramasinghe2291]

Excellent comment

I think bus drivers are like gods.

[@AFmedic]

Mentour Pilot - I am late to the party, so to speak because I just came across your videos. I have been binge watch your vids and really like how informative and well done they are. What really impressed me is the respect you show others & giving credit where credit is due. Example: Video about maintenance and how you acknowledged the hard work done by the maintenance people. Also the videos where you recommended viewers to refer to videos by Captain Joe. You are a shining example of Professionalism!

[@natopeacekeeper97]

I'm 66 years old and I remember flying in Super Constellations. I think it was TWA but they gave children pilots wings whenever you flew and I thought that was a really nice touch. I remember how professional the pilots and flight attendants looked so professional but my favorite part was seeing the cockpit and how the pilots took the time to explain basic flight to us. Of course I guess cockpit tours are a thing of the past but everyone you said in this video was correct! thanks.

[@donnymac2856]

Man I’m thirty years old and I still ask questions every time I go to the airport! You’re 4 stripe legacy excellence man! Gold standard stuff my brother! Keep up the good work

[@Kubuluno]

I was at a symposium yesterday that was to do about the aviation industry, we had some pilots as guest speakers on two panels. The man and the two women pilots who were in their uniforms really presented themselves well, you could really have this majestic feeling from them and kind of an important feeling, a safe one.. it is hard to explain but it definitely was pleasant. I really like the uniforms worn by the pilots and I respect them. They are very important, as you say.

[@MentourPilot]

Yes, thats what I am talking about.

[@alright310]

Nathan Ken very well said, that's how I see them too!

[@a320crew6]

It's bad for business having naked pilots so they provide uniforms.

[@frantisekzverina473]

they should have spend the saved money on gym permits ;)

[@cristinamorenolamin3217]

I wouldnt complain!

[@thewaywardwind548]

I worked for a regional carrier closely associated with a major international airline. We had ATRs operating into and out of our airport. If you're not familiar with the ATR, there is a cargo bay with an upward opening door between the flight deck and the passenger compartment where we routinely stored gate check bags. That bay is opened as soon as the engines are shut down so we could get the gate checked bags to the passengers as they deplaned. This particular airplane had an air conditioning failure and the flight deck temperature was something over 100 degrees. When I opened the cargo bay to retrieve the gate checked bags, both the captain the first officer were in the bay putting their pants back on! OOPS! I shut the door and gave the crew a couple of minutes before opening it again.

[@philycheezesteak5176]

NOT TRUE! there's many evidence of Japanese airlines with naked flight attendants! just google it and there'll be tons of authentic pictures!!

[@Harradrush]

Ah yes, the totally real Japanese documentaries!

[@danielkorladis7869]

As much as we hate to admit it, people tend to judge by appearances. People will feel a lot more secure if the pilot looks like the mental "idealized" pilot. It's reassuring. Additionally, lots of people go many years between traveling by airliner. Much has changed over the years in the airline industry, what with increased security, different airlines, different baggage rules, etc. Pilots looking basically the same as they have since the 30s is a nice touch of the familiar for people who haven't flown in a while.

[@jmsfabrication7821]

Another great video! I can tell that you were raised by parents that taught you to have respect for others, and raised you right!

[@rodolfoaguirre6953]

Me gustó mucho este video. En 11 minutos y 12 segundos se resume la historia y las bases sobre las que se sustenta el uso del uniforme, lo que significa vestirlo, y el porqué es tan importante cuidarlo.

[@dobermanpac1064]

Uniforms are most important in Business....Pilots, Police, Fire, EMS, etc....builds confidence, shows care and identifies you as a PRO... Great topic!!....Optics are imporatant.

[@rodolfoaguirre6953]

I really liked this video. In 11 minutes and 12 seconds some aspects of the pilot´s uniform history is summarized, the fundamentals on which it´s use is based, and what it means to dress it, and why it is so important to take care of it as well.

[@mikoto7693]

Aye it’s much more complicated than ground crew uniforms.

[@karthikkumar1942]

Discipline is everything! Really inspired by pilots like you and my ambition is also to become a pilot and as of now I am 10th! Working hard to achieve my dream!

[@kenspinozastone7195]

Mentor. I respect your point of view regarding the uniform being the way it is commonly known as, however as one user already posted....I prefer the operational military look. It generates more security and comfort. The military look is strong and bold. Keep up the good work, I'm learning so much.

[@hmabboud]

I watched like 7 of your videos now and I like you a lot, in a human way. I feel you are a really nice person. I am trying to change my career but I dont have a friend or a relative to advise me. So many options and so many ways.

[@knighttuttruptuttrup8518]

You represent all pilots, I respect your commitment to excellence/perfection.

[@mohammedshaik7113]

Deep rooted professionalism , this is what makes a person consistent driveway for excellence!

[@Cl4rendon]

You are absolutely right about the uniform. It`s the appearance and the image not only of the airline, but the entire industry. Last week i was a bit shocked as i saw a wasted looking FO from a Scandinavian company at El Prat ( Barcelona) walking from outside into the terminal with his shades half on, jacket open, cigarette in the edge of his mouth dragging his white shirts behind him on hangers...

[@MentourPilot]

Yes, thats exactly what I am talking about. We need to realise that people see us, even if we have finished our duty. You will never see me like that.

[@eloisebrynlee]

Wow. I have never ever seen that in any Australian airports, hopefully never will. All the Australian uniforms look great, except the new QF uniforms are a step back I think, from the previous ones. I didn’t know before watching this video that hats, or wings, were not compulsory in airlines. www.smh.com.au/business/aviation/qantas-pilots-fume-over-stricter-uniform-standards-20161025-gs9w1h.html

[@kd5nrh]

I've worked a few jobs where I had to wear different uniforms, and one thing I started early on was taking non-uniform clothes with me everywhere. Even if it's just a jacket to cover a uniform shirt, it makes my time purely my own, without any responsibility to or reflection on the company if I want to pig out at dinner or stop at the liquor store on the way home.

[@lfk76]

Came here to hear what you had to say about hats, you're spot on with what I think too!.. Been binging all the other of your videos lately, great stuff, keep up the excellent work!

[@NeilVanceNeilVance]

A perfect short explanation of what I always wanted explained ... Thank you MP!

[@udhayaprakashudhay7009]

I love the pilot life.... I Hope I will be a pilot within 6 or 7 years... You are doing well in the you tube... Keep posting more details about piloting... I will be the first person to watch... Thank you RESPECTED PILOT...

[@Admas3500]

Absolutely fantastic video Really one of the things that make a pilot more confident is the uniform indeed

[@MentourPilot]

Thank you! Great to hear that you liked it!

[@anthonyfong4922]

Your professionalism really shows

[@im4inxs752]

I am the 5k thumbs ups individual. I HAVE watched ALL OF these explanations ON THIS SITE. VERY GOOD AND PROFESSIONAL, THANK YOU CAPTAIN.

[@user-ky6vw5up9m]

Pilots in caps and the long rainproof overcoats is a great look

[@kimicollier9846]

Awesome.!! Very informative for ALL new pilots on their way to the "front seats" Seriously - that office wallpaper.?? :) :) :) Thank you for your videos.

[@MaltaMcMurchy]

This is great, thank you for explaining the story behind the uniform. I found this video to be very enlightening.

[@AviatorInspirations]

Fantastic video and topic! Its a common question I get about why some pilots wear hats and some don't. But regardless, its a great message about keeping yourself looking sharp and professional! Keep up the great work.

[@billyjustbilly7923]

One more point. If your uniform looks crumpled or dirty people may assume you have life issues or maybe a drunk. If you take care of your uniform it is assumed you take care of yourself and your plane, not to mention your passengers. All round a very important image. Great video!

[@brendaproffitt1011]

Totally good looken in uniform most guy's do wear regular ties..yes the hat ..you done an excellent job and that's pretty cool having different pilot's..Thank you so much for your videos and everything you do...

[@MentourPilot]

Thank you for your support my friend!

[@brendaproffitt1011]

Mentour Pilot your welcome my friend..

[@thibault3604]

This is absolutely amazing! very interesting thank you Mentour!!

[@MentourPilot]

Great to hear that you liked it Thibault!

[@MeirbhinOConaill]

Thanks for this mate. It's important to reflect on the persona that we portray

[@brucel.6078]

You are very inspirational. Thank you for all you share!

[@pritikaneupane5725]

Loved your video. Desperately waiting to wear these uniforms 😍😍😍

[@mdogzino]

This guy has a really interesting interpretation/understanding of the word podcast.

[@pekalaita7193]

Looking smart on your uniform captain love it

[@aviationradar4160]

Really good video Mentour!! Congratulations!

[@tituslim4648]

Petter, you look great in the pilot recruitment video u were in for the company 👍👍👍 btw keep up the great videos!

[@theRealBryan]

Love the reference to the flying boats. My grandfather did maintenance on them in the 1930s at Dinner Key in Miami. Pan Am pilots were "the Sky Gods".

[@MentourPilot]

+Bryan Carson That's awesome!

[@jacopoiacomelli2424]

Totally agree with you! Well done!

[@embracethesuck1041]

Custom shirts are an amazing indulgence. Nothing fits quite like well tailored clothes.

[@sherwinsalvatori6997]

Great topic and it applies to all professionals, the way you carry yous self tell alot sbout you

[@Bim0Mr]

My fantasy is to wear jeans and polo shirt for official duty flying the cargo jets! I wore short and jumper once during ferry flight, while the other time I intentionally put on polo shirt flying the jet from manufacturer... quite nice and I loved it!

[@athronglasangtam7617]

Thank you for your information and great job.

[@rosselliott3971]

Absolutely brilliant thankyou certainty hope we can all keep the tradition.

[@RahmanSajid]

Awesome as always Petter ;)

[@MentourPilot]

Thank you! Glad to hear that you liked it!

[@martineyles]

I think It's reassuring to see the stripes indicating rank and experience. Reminds you that at least one of the pilots is highly experienced, and that more junior pilots with them are learning and assisting with and ultimately backed up by the experienced pilot.

[@MentourPilot]

Yes, thats the idea.

[@TakeDeadAim]

I find that wearing US Navy issue Admiral shoulder boards really inspire confidence. IF four stripes are good...stars are even better. I also encourage bowing and buying my Starbucks to take the edge off...

[@pratikkumar4060]

It's great watch another interesting video from you as always!! Please make some technical videos for cockpits, PFD ,ND , and all the features of flight deck?Hope we all will get it soon!

[@cathymartine6034]

Love the pilot uniform!! Lookin quite snazzy!!

[@route66flyer29]

In the 70's I drove bus for Continental Trailways out of Boston Mass. and we wore the same uniform as Eastern Airlines pilots minus the gold. It was common for us to pick up charters at Logan Airport and if we were in the terminal for some reason people would mistake us for pilots.

[@TKDonny]

Hats would mess my hair up. Great video 👍🏼

[@evilbred974]

It's crucial that the public perceives pilots as competent professionals and never find out the terrible truth.

[@felobatirmoheb4884]

And whats the terrible truth?

[@freedomloverusa3030]

@@felobatirmoheb4884 reality…

[@felobatirmoheb4884]

@@freedomloverusa3030 snap back to reality.

[@theillytellez3761]

I'm terrified of my planes and definitely not an aspiring pilot, but I really like your videos , I find them interesting and professional. This one was quite inspiring

[@MentourPilot]

Thank you! I glad you thought so!

[@justinobarajas611]

Thanks for your information captain I learned a lot of it

[@TheAviationChannel]

You make great videos (like always). Good luck with your future videos;)

[@andreylyubenov3421]

In my opinion the uniform looks great. Everyone expect someone who will give them respect and to be sure that this is a professional in what he do because probably flying the plane is not too easy like looks like. In a hard situation you give all your trust in the pilots hands.

[@roloyoung763]

Thanks for another awesome informative video and brilliant advice. Greetings from Fiji Islands

[@MentourPilot]

+Rolo Young Thank you for your support!

[@sianhinkley4267]

@mentour pilot I love ur content keep up the good work I like ur MacBook and ur Apple Watch

[@kevyelyod1211]

Great video! Very high quality content, very personable .

[@MentourPilot]

Great to hear that you liked it!

[@j2moto582]

Always looking sharp Cap. 😎👊

[@dianneb2224]

And you look fantastic in your uniform! 😘

[@yvonnemureithi2148]

You are my mentor👌👌 I'm an aspiring female pilot to-be..

[@mwakugomba]

Hongera!

[@dhanush123]

Ur really soooo great mr. Mentour pilot , ur giving some knowledge and some energy in aviation , thanks for all , even my aim is to become an airline pilot , but Dam sure that One day I will be an airline pilot 🥺😡 , I can I will !!.

[@drg111yt]

Very professional - now I know the meaning of the stripes.

[@MrSlitskirts]

Hi, great clip, and great shirts from Thailand. Ref the uniform being based on the US Navy, it may also (I don't know if tis true, I'm just 'thinking out loud') have been inspired by the Merchant Marine, aka Cruise Ships/Passenger Liners, as their uniforms were already established and known to people. So the uniforms and profession of the Merchant Marine could be transferred to Civil Aviation, like a Ship's Captain's authority and responsibility is transferred to an Airline Pilot Captain, etc. Kind regards.

[@selinalavanya9556]

Liked this information, captian!!

[@iRaauul]

great video, very useful information

[@georgeohwell9979]

Gorgeous for the airways Mentourprise 😉

[@edschermer]

My father was an A&P for his career, I remember as young child as addressing captains ALWAYS as “Captain _____”

[@ternoc]

On AirFrance, they have in addition of the three/four strips a loop.

[@htto0om]

Yes, I agree. The hat makes the uniform more official 👍

[@brurkriboww8545]

perfect video Capt!!

[@shilparangari3598]

Nice profession you have

[@ct92404]

You look sharp. Good video.

[@PaulJohnsonM]

Airline pilots look good! I dig the uniforms.

[@justicemoody]

Excellent!

[@FlyLA-be3vj]

Really like your videos captain!

[@MentourPilot]

Thank you! Thats great to hear!

[@reg7180]

The uniform must make it a lot easier to find a lady friend for the evening.

[@GabrielUngacta]

Well ladies do love a man in uniform.

[@machinegunlament]

or a man friend ;-)

[@duck5336]

Definitely when they know he’s taking in around $115k a year.

[@ericluo520]

@@duck5336 I’m pretty for the first year it’s slightly above or below minimum wage

[@user-rv9yt2gq6c]

Is that forman uniform is a uniform? 😂

[@MagnusMas]

Thank you so much, u r amazing mentor here