RAF Lightweight Flying Coverall [issued to Sir Keith Park]
Maker and role
Royal Air Force, Maker
Production date
Circa 1946
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Object detail
Accession number
1982.905
Maker
Description
Flying overalls. Navy blue overall with white woollen collar and cuffs at the sleeves, Snap dome pockets on the chest and hips of the overalls, Snap domes at the cuffs of the sleeves, Overalls lining attached with snap domes. Front zip goes from collar to underside of the crotch. Belt attached around the waist. Two navy blue/grey nylon strips attached at the collar. Epaulette straps on the shoulders.
Brief History
This is an example of the post-war RAF Lightweight Flying Coverall issued between 1946 and 1951. This set was issued to New Zealand Sir Keith Rodney Park while he served in the South East Asia Command.
During the 20th century, changes to aircraft technology including enclosed cockpits, higher flying altitudes, and fire risks meant that the RAF needed to offer a greater range of suitable flying clothing and protective gear for crew. It was soon found that RAF uniforms designed for desert climates were ill-suited for South East Asia's hot and humid conditions with high insect populations.
Clive Vernon Beadon was tasked with improving survival aids provided for use by aircrew within the South East Asia Command. The suit in the MOTAT Collection is a development of the ‘Beadon Flying Suit,’ and was the RAF mass produced version for tropical conditions. Though the suit was intended for use in tropical regions, it proved popular and could frequently be seen in use by aircrew in more temperate climates.
This suit's wearer, Sir Keith Park, is remembered for his contributions in both the First and Second World Wars, particularly the leadership roles he played during the Battle of Britain and Siege of Malta in WWII which saw Allied success in aerial warfare.
During the 20th century, changes to aircraft technology including enclosed cockpits, higher flying altitudes, and fire risks meant that the RAF needed to offer a greater range of suitable flying clothing and protective gear for crew. It was soon found that RAF uniforms designed for desert climates were ill-suited for South East Asia's hot and humid conditions with high insect populations.
Clive Vernon Beadon was tasked with improving survival aids provided for use by aircrew within the South East Asia Command. The suit in the MOTAT Collection is a development of the ‘Beadon Flying Suit,’ and was the RAF mass produced version for tropical conditions. Though the suit was intended for use in tropical regions, it proved popular and could frequently be seen in use by aircrew in more temperate climates.
This suit's wearer, Sir Keith Park, is remembered for his contributions in both the First and Second World Wars, particularly the leadership roles he played during the Battle of Britain and Siege of Malta in WWII which saw Allied success in aerial warfare.
Marks
KEITH PARK Maker's Mark
Collection
Credit Line
Royal Air Force. Circa 1946. RAF Lightweight Flying Coverall [issued to Sir Keith Park], 1982.905. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
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