Hundreds of furious American Airlines workers claim the new uniforms are making them sick
Some American Airlines employees are claiming that their new uniforms are causing them to have headaches and break out in hives, according to a report from Chicago Business Journal.
The world's largest airline by fleet introduced new uniforms for pilots, flight attendants, and customer service employees earlier this month. It was the first time the company had updated its uniforms in almost 30 years.
In total, more than 50,000 employees worldwide were outfitted in the new threads. But it didn't take long for the complaints to start coming in.
According to the report, more than 400 employees have already complained to their union about the issue. However, American Airlines said only 15 employees have reported issues to the company directly, according to a report from the ABC news affiliate WFAA.
The uniforms are manufactured by Twin Hill, a company that makes corporate uniforms. The fabrics used for the uniforms consist of a wool blend, while the shirts and blouses are made of cotton.
American Airlines did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But the airline did confirm to Chicago Business Journal that it has received some complaints and that at this time believes that it may be related to a wool allergy among some employees. The company also told the Journal that it has given employees the option of a polyester uniform instead.