This is an example of the trousers from the Luftwaffe two piece electrically heated "Kanal" suit. They became standard issue for pilots and aircrews sometime in 1943.
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.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Germany
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Flight Clothing
Luftwaffe winter flying trousers; slate blue cotton exterior with a crushed velvet lining; zipper down front with snap closure at waist; zipper in front of leg cuffs; bellow pocket with snap flap closure on the thigh of each leg; patch pocket on right side leg with snap closure; attached belt at waist with loop buckle; cotton straps with steel loops on inside of the waist for suspender (braces); electrical heating element between layers with plug attachment.
Clothing: 105.4 x 45.7 x 5.1cm (41 1/2 x 18 x 2 in.)
Cotton, synthetic fabric, brass, steel, copper, rubber, leather
A19771047000
Transferred from the United States Air Force, Foreign Technology Division
National Air and Space Museum
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