Offered here is a World War II Luftwaffe leather flight jacket along with leather flight trousers. The jacket features a Ries main zipper, Eclair pocket zippers, lower pockets with button flaps, major shoulder insignia, and Luftwaffe Officer’s breast eagle on the left chest. This is a very popular style jacket worn by Luftwaffe fighter pilots. Includes a set of oberstleutnant shoulder insignia. The electrically heated winter leather flight trousers feature Ri-Ri, Zipp and Rapid brand zippers, large pockets with button and snap flaps on the front of both legs, back pocket with snap flap, electoral connector, and elastic suspenders. Originally developed by the French for World War I, heated flight gear was explored by both the Allies and the Axis during World War II, due to the medical perils of long range high altitude flight and winter operation, where the comfort of pilots and aircrew needed to be balanced against their ability to actually fit in and operate the aircraft. Lightweight, partially electrified suits are noted as having been deployed for use by Luftwaffe single-seat aircraft pilots, keeping hands and feet warm and useable without excessive bulk. Provenance: The George Petersen Collection; The Putnam Green/Sycamore Collection

The flight jacket and flight trousers are both very good and show honest wear and use. A great set of classic World War II Luftwaffe officer’s flight gear that displays nicely.