FAQs

Why is the MA-1 orange on the inside?
In 1960, the MA-1 was changed to a reversible jacket with an orange lining instead of green. By reversing their MA-1 jacket to the orange side, downed pilots could easily be located by search and rescue teams.

What is the sleeve pocket on the MA-1 for?
This pocket was originally created to hold a pack of cigarettes.

Why is there a tab on the front of the vintage MA-1?
True to the original military spec, this tab was placed on the front of the jacket so that the pilot could clip his oxygen mask to it.

What is the M-65 made of?
The fabric for the M-65 outershell is a wind-resistant 50% Cotton/50% Nylon Sateen with a 225 lb. Breaking strength.

Has Alpha ever made a floating jacket?
Yes. It was called the Impermeable Extreme Cold Weather Waterproof Clothing Ensemble. This was originally designed for U.S. Navy shipboard use during extreme cold, wet weather.

Why are the "pen bullets" sewn into the MA-1?
These bullets are sewn into the MA-1 to cover the tip of the pen when it is placed in the pen pocket, assuring that the ink does not leak on to the sleeve of the jacket.

Why are the pockets angled on the CWU 45/P?
When the jacket was designed officers realized the need for pockets from a functional standpoint, but did not want their pilots walking around with their hands in their pockets. Consequently, they asked that the pockets be angled and placed high on the front of the jacket.