The MA-1 was the most popular and the longest used of the flight jackets of which there were many. The development of the MA-1 began in the early 1950s based on the B-15 series, which was the official flight jacket until then. The B-15 was an improved version of the cotton B-10 introduced in 1943 and underwent transformations that adapted to dramatic technological innovations and advances in military aircraft. Emerging against this backdrop, the MA-1 model made the greatest change to the flight jacket, namely, it removed its collar. This is because the development of jet aircraft forced he review of aviation accessories. The MA-1 continued to be cherished by U.S. Air Force officers and personnel since its adoption in 1957 until the introduction of the CWU45/P jacket in 1976. In the meantime, the MA-1 needless to say continued to make fine improvements and be perfected further. With its style having a significant impact on the fashion world, the MA-1 has had far-reaching effects that greatly extend beyond the military category.
- Custom manufacturing of the correct weight and weave nylon outer shell and inner lining to precisely match the original USAF specs. and treated to repel water.
- Correct USAF-spec. inner lining of warm wool fibre filling sandwiched between the outer and inner shell lining.
- Two snap-down exterior pockets lined with warm 80/20 wool-rayon fabric precisely matching 1950's USAF specs.
- Two snap-down interior pockets lined with heavy all-cotton twill fabric precisely matching 1950's USAF specs.
- Exact copy of the heavy-duty 1953 Crown zippers on sleeve pocket and jacket front, with zip tape made of all-cotton HBT fabric that is rolled and glued at the base, not incorrect poly-cotton that is heat sealed with plastics at the base.
- Leather zipper pull tab as found on Albert Turner MA-1's, designed for easy functioning with gloves.
- Heavy wind flap protector located behind zipper closure.
- Custom manufacturing of the correct, two-ply, wool knit collar, cuffs and waist skirt.
- USAF insignia transfer on left sleeve and under maker label in lining, exactly as found on early MA-1's.
- Zippered pocket on left sleeve outfitted with four pen/pencil slots and two anti-puncture pencil caps made of USAF-spec. brass.
- Lot No. BR14900
- Made in Japan
- Model is 5'11"/170 lbs. and wears size Medium