Rob Ross, the president of the union, told The Los Angeles Times that the fibers used in the uniforms are "potentially toxic." American Airlines, however, believes the reactions are a direct result of wool allergies. But, according to Fortune, flight attendants wearing the cotton version of the uniforms also experienced these symptoms.
A spokesperson from American Airlines said the company currently is working to correct the problem.
"The number one priority for all of us as we developed our new uniforms was to ensure that our new uniforms not only meet—but exceed—safety and comfort levels," an American Airlines spokesperson told Fortune. "Over the last three years, we have done extensive fabric, fit and wear tests to ensure we got things right. We are working in collaboration with our employees and the APFA to address individual concerns. We offer a uniform collection for individuals who have sensitivities or allergies to our wool-rich uniform collection."
Hannah Abrams is the senior content editor for Promo Marketing. In her free time, she enjoys coming up with excuses to avoid exercise, visiting her hometown in Los Angeles and rallying for Leonardo DiCaprio to win his first second Academy Award.