In 1927, the US Army introduced the inaugural standard flight jacket, the A-1. This design incorporated a knit waistband and cuffs to enhance insulation and was typically crafted from robust materials like horsehide, sheepskin, or goatskin leather. Notable for its button closure and flap pockets, the A-1 set a precedent in military apparel. However, as the 1930s approached, the A-2 emerged as its successor, trading the button closure for a sturdier zip fastening. It also boasted a fold-down collar, creating a vintage, iconic look that would become a hallmark of classic flight jacket design.

World War II's rapid advancements in aviation technology led to aircraft achieving greater speeds and higher altitudes, necessitating the development of warmer jackets for pilots. This period saw a surge in innovative flight jacket designs, both in terms of style and materials. The B-15 jacket, introduced in the 1940s, was a significant step forward and ultimately, laid the groundwork for what would become the most iconic bomber jacket design to date: the MA-1.