USAAF Type A-2: Aero Contract No. 42-18775-P
• Pattern taken from a number of original 1942 jackets in our archives
• Talon zipper
• Squared pocket corners
• Military grade cotton lining
• High grade knitted cuffs and waistband
• Ring studs
• Pictured left in Dark Seal Vicenza Horsehide
The USAAF Type A2 leather flying jacket was undoubtedly the most popular garment ever issued to aviators. First standardised 9th May 1931, it became a classic during its long service life and remained in use in every theatre of operations until long after WWII, despite discontinuation in April 1943.
This, the final WW2 Aero contract Type A-2, has styling, detailing, stitch patterns and label that are facsimiles of the original by Aero Leather Clothing, Beacon, NY. This Type A-2 is fitted with a high grade Japanese made WW2 replica Talon zipper and is cut from the original WW2 patterns made by Aero Leather Clothing of Beacon NY. Our current incarnation of this famous jacket is cut from the original WW2 patterns made by Aero Leather Clothing of Beacon NY.
This contract is virtually identical to the 42-15142-P Type A-2. The original paper patterns taken from dismantled WW2 jackets way back at the start of of our A-2 production have been checked across the whole size spectrum. We’ve also checked gaps in our original WW2 paper archive patterns by dismantling a few more wrecked original jackets and taking exact patterns from these, bottom line, after checking and amending the entire grading from 34" to 52", we can guarantee that our current 42-18775-P fits identically to the equivalent WW2 issue jacket.
The 42-18775-P pattern is taken from several original 1942 jackets in our archives and fits identically to the 42-15142-P. It’s the most relaxed cut of all Aero Contracts, with more room around the body and sleeves and larger armholes. It’s probably the most iconic Type A-2 fit, typical of most examples seen in wartime photographs.
We generally advise ordering based on your natural chest measurement if you’d like a slimmer fit, or your expanded chest measurement for a more relaxed fit.
For further general sizing information, please see our sizing FAQ section. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for there, please get in touch.
Don’t worry, all sizing information displayed here is only a guide. Every order placed is checked over by a member of our production team who will confirm your size selection against your measurements or recommend any necessary changes that need to be made. If you have any specific queries, you can note these in the special instructions box on the ‘measurements’ page when placing your order.
