American Airlines to let unions choose new uniform vendors

After being inundated with complaints from employees who said their uniforms caused itching, wheezing and other problems, American Airlines has decided to let its unions choose the next vendor. Thousands of flight attendants, ground workers and pilots reported allergic reactions to the uniforms produced by Twin Hill, prompting the Fort Worth-based carrier to end its partnership with the manufacturer and seek a new company to produce its uniforms. “We’re working together with each union to select a Frontline Uniform Advisory Team to shape our long-term solution toward a uniform that all team members wear with confidence,” the carrier said in a letter sent to employees Monday. American said it already narrowed its vendor search to 22 potential suppliers and each union will select five as finalists. The company said the process will take several months and include factory visits by union leaders and employees.<br/>