Among the many airlines in the world, the name Air France stands out for its chic and elegant brilliance. This is likely due in part to the fact that its flight attendants have long been regarded as ambassadors of France, the land of culture and fashion. The uniforms worn by female flight attendants are the pride of the country of haute couture and have always reflected the times.
Air France was founded in 1933. The era of passenger aircraft did not fully begin until after the war. In 1945, the airline hired its first female flight attendants. They were selected from among outstanding women in their twenties who served in the military or the Red Cross. Naturally, their uniforms were similar in style to military uniforms.
It was a time when flying was a luxury and adventure only available to a wealthy few. The flight from Paris to New York took 20 hours, and the service offered was on par with that of a luxury hotel. While serving drinks and meals was the man's job, the role of female flight attendants was to make passengers feel at ease and provide attentive care. They were like mothers or nurses, so to speak. In addition to academic background and language skills, family background and appearance were also important.
Air France began service to Japan in the fall of 1952. The route was a southern route with stops in Beirut, Karachi, and Saigon. The advertising slogan at the time was, "Paris to Tokyo in just 41 hours and 10 minutes, with only three stops." It was a much longer journey than it is today.
In 1954, the job duties of flight attendants were revised, the age limit for women was raised to 40, and safety management became more important. The 1950s also saw the first changes in uniforms. Although the strictness of the uniform, with its beret and buttoned-up shirt, still retained a military appearance, feminine elements were gradually being added.
Initially, flight attendants purchased the uniforms at half price, and only got them after two years. It wasn't until 1953 that they began to be provided free of charge.
Standing on this premise, stewardesses remained popular. Their elegant demeanor, beautiful smiles and gestures, witty conversation, and precise mannerisms were the object of admiration. They were fully aware that they were "ambassadors on board" for the country of France.
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