Singapore Airlines (SIA) is preparing for a footwear change that will mark the end of a long-standing part of its iconic cabin crew uniform.
From January 2027, the airline will progressively introduce new closed-toe wedge shoes for female flight attendants, replacing the open-toe batik sandals and closed-toe slingbacks they currently wear during different stages of a flight.
The new footwear was developed in collaboration with local shoe brand Pazzion, with the airline saying the change follows a review aimed at improving safety, comfort and support while meeting the practical demands of cabin crew duties.
A New Design With Familiar Batik Details
Although the footwear is changing, SIA is retaining a recognisable element of its signature look.
The new shoes feature the airline’s distinctive batik-inspired design, with different colour variations to complement the sarong kebayas worn by cabin crew members of different ranks.
Made from genuine leather, the shoes include cushioned lambskin insoles, a widened toe box and a padded back section designed to improve comfort and support.
The closed-toe design is also intended to offer better protection against spills and falling objects in the aircraft cabin.
Why the Airline Is Making the Switch
Female cabin crew currently alternate between open-toe sandals and closed-toe slingbacks during a flight. The slingbacks are worn during take-off and landing, while the sandals are used during other parts of the journey.
With the new design, crew members will be able to wear one pair of shoes throughout the flight, eliminating the need to change footwear.
The development process involved feedback from female flight attendants, multiple fittings and wear-testing. Several prototypes were also tested on actual flights before the final design was selected.
According to CNA Lifestyle, the shoes took 31 months to develop in collaboration with Pazzion.
The End of a Recognisable Uniform Feature
The sandals have long been associated with the Singapore Girl image, alongside the airline’s distinctive sarong kebaya uniform.
The uniform’s history stretches back decades, making even a footwear update a noticeable change to one of Singapore Airlines’ most recognisable visual identities.
The latest transition is part of the airline’s effort to balance its traditional appearance with the practical needs of cabin crew working onboard.
SIA has confirmed that the new footwear will be introduced progressively from January 2027, although it has not announced when the transition will be fully completed. Male cabin crew will continue wearing their existing black leather shoes.
