Kenya: Explained: Little-Known Meaning Behind Stripes in Pilot Uniforms

At first glance, the stripes on a pilot’s uniform may seem purely decorative, but in aviation, they carry a precise meaning.

The number of stripes on a pilot’s uniform is a visual indicator of rank, experience and responsibility on the flight deck, according to aviation training guidance, including the Kenya School of Flying. This system allows for the quick identification of a pilot’s level of authority.

Typically, the stripes are displayed on the lower sleeves of the pilot’s…