Cockpit USA

Cockpit USA is a New York maker of military flight jackets. The company has made jackets in the USA since 1975. It focuses on aviation styles and heritage pieces. The range includes A-2, G-1, CWU, and field jackets. Prices on its site run from about US$550 to US$900.

History and aviation roots

Founder Jeff Clyman is a seasoned Warbird pilot. He flew vintage WWII aircraft in air shows. In 1975 he founded AVIREX Ltd. By 1978 the Cockpit catalog was launched and the brand grew. The U.S.A.F. began buying A-2 leather flight jackets from the company. Over time they supplied the USAF, U.S. Navy, Army, NASA, and international armed forces. The Wall Street Journal noted they have supplied the U.S. Government since 1987 and saw 20 percent sales growth. The flagship Cockpit store opened at 595 Broadway in SoHo.

Cockpit USA partnered with Warner Bros. to promote The Right Stuff. The brand also worked with Paramount Pictures in 1986 to promote Top Gun. More recently, it supplied original Nomex CWU flight jackets for Top Gun: Maverick. Cockpit sponsors the American Airpower Museum, reflecting its close ties to aviation history.

Pilot and military jackets

The A-2 flight jacket was issued to pilots, navigators, and bombers in WWII. Owners often customized A-2 jackets with US squadron patches. Cockpit USA continues that tradition with heavy leather builds, cotton linings, and a zipper for a trim fit. The heritage collection uses genuine leather.

• WWII Government Issue A-2 Jacket (Z2107H): A leather flight jacket for aircrew.
• U.S. Navy Issue Mil Spec G-1 Jacket (Z2108): A U.S. Navy G-1 flight jacket.
• Movie Hero Top Gun Navy G-1 Jacket (Z201036T): From the Top Gun-inspired collection.
• Nomex CWU flight jacket: The original CWU type supplied for Top Gun: Maverick.
• M-65 Field Jacket: Made in the USA to original 1965 specs.
• R.A.F Sheepskin Bomber Jacket: A refined take on the 1937 RAF bomber.

Materials and making in the USA

Cockpit USA highlights American production. Its A-2 jackets use heavy leather, with cotton linings for comfort and a zipper for a snug fit. The heritage collection is made of genuine leather. The company holds year-round core product inventory in a US facility.

Who it is for and customization

These jackets suit pilots and aviation fans who like proven military styles. The aviation brand ambassadors program is pilot tested and approved. Cockpit USA can personalize and co-brand products at smaller quantities. USA wholesale orders have a minimum of three pieces.

Pilots and aviation fans like Cockpit USA for its aviation roots, its made in the USA build, and its close ties to military units and films. The designs connect modern wear to real aircrew history.