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This is an example of a 1941 Pattern flying suit used by Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots and aircrew during the World War II. This garment is electrically wired for heat and has connections for heated gloves and socks. The suit contains a heavy insulation of kapok to provide buoyancy in case of a water alight.

This flying suit was obtained for research by the U.S. Army Air Forces Foreign Technology Division (FTD) during World War II. These items were made available for study by commercial firms who could then incorporate any improvements American flight clothing.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Country of Origin

United Kingdom

Type

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Flight Clothing

Manufacturer

Taylor Electric Clothing

Physical Description

Royal Air Force 1941 Pattern Taylor Buoyancy suit; one piece coverall; drop fall collar with securing snap at front of neck; zipper from neck to waist; four metal snaps at waist; zippers going from hip to ankle on both legs; slash pockets on both ankles with snap closure; zipper closure at wrists; manufacturer tag inside collar with garment number (written in ink), a crown and the letters A.M. printed on it.

Dimensions

Clothing: 160 x 86.4 x 11.4cm (63 x 34 x 4 1/2 in.)

Materials

Overall: Cotton

Inventory Number

A19771107000

Credit Line

Transferred from the United States Air Force, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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