Original Item: Only One Available. Development of protective flight uniforms and equipment began with the advent of military aircraft in WWI and continued on into the Weimar and the Third Reich eras, resulting in three distinct one-piece combination pattern flight suits being approved before WWII and worn for the duration of the war.
Regulations of July 4TH 1940 and April 24TH 1941 introduced two piece protective flight suits for fighter pilots designed to increase the wearers mobility and not be as restrictive in the close confines of a cockpit. The two piece flight suits consist of separate jacket and pants and was commonly referred to as the “Kanalanzug”, (Channel Uniform).
Officers and certain senior NCO’s were responsible for purchasing their own uniforms and were allotted a clothing allowance. Generally speaking officers bought nice quality, private purchase, uniform items but they could also choose to buy their uniforms directly from the military clothing depots. Besides the standard issue flight garments Luftwaffe personnel also utilized a wide variety of private purchase leather jackets in contradiction of regulations. These private purchase jackets appear to have been quite popular as they can be commonly seen in period photographs.
This example is a high quality, German made private purchase, non-regulation, milk chocolate brown leather construction fully lined. We estimate that it is most likely around a size 40. Features four zipper pocket on front each with a German made ZIPP zipper. All zippers function with the exception of one. Zippered cuss, fully inerior rayon lining and double breasted button design. Correct officer shoulder boards and pin back breast eagle. Overall offered in very good condition, this is about the best example of a Luftwaffe leather pilot’s jacket we’ve ever come across!
Approximate Measurements:
Collar to Shoulder: 10″
Shoulder to Sleeve: 24.5″
Shoulder to Shoulder: 18″
Chest width: 20″
Waist width: 20″
Hip width: 20″
Front length: 28″