Thompson Aero Seating (TAS) is preparing for a busy time at Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg, with plans to reveal enhancements to existing seating ranges, announce the development of a new seating product, and make announcements about new airline customers over the three days of the show.
Among the activities, Aircraft Interiors International is particularly excited about the ‘coming soon room’ at the TAS stand, a private space where a few select guests will be invited to share their opinions on a seat in development.
This process helps the TAS development team glean industry knowledge and gain airline and passenger opinion to help define and refine enhancements to seat designs. According to TAS, this tactic proved invaluable in the development of the VantageNOVA platform.
Innovations on show
TAS will be showing its full range of products at AIX. A particular draw will be the VantageNOVA range, which is due to be delivered to launch customer Delta Air Lines later this year for its A350-1000s.
A number of other programmes are currently in progress with several other TAS customers. A range of production-standard VantageNOVA seats in both herringbone and reverse herringbone configurations will also be showcased at AIX.
Also on display will be VantageNOVA First, a continuation of its ‘first class for free’ space-efficient front-row suites, which is a finalist in the 2026 Crystal Cabin Awards. TAS has applied its in-house-designed Project Echo colour scheme to the VantageNOVA range for the very first time, with a rich moss green and tan palette applied in the enhanced front row.
VantageXL+
Following the recent introduction of the VantageXL+ model developed specifically for the A350 and B787, TAS now plans to reveal the VantageXL+ First version at AIX 2026. Features of this newest iteration include extended bed level cushioning, a floating outboard armrest and cocktail surface, and overhung privacy doors to maximise interior living space. The VantageXL+ First is configurable with fixed privacy screens and has the option for a zero-g seating position.
VantageXL range
The VantageXL seat, VantageXL suite and VantageXL First models will also be available on the TAS stand at AIX, with the team on hand to explain the latest integrated technologies. These versions of the forward-facing platform for twin-aisle aircraft will demonstrate the many configurations, customisations and new innovations available, including the VantageXL for the A330 and the VantageXL+ for the A350 and B787.
VantageSOLO range
The latest versions of the VantageSOLO seat along with the VantageSOLO First will also be on display, to demonstrate how they meet the requirements of single-aisle aircraft cabins. Popular features that will be demonstrated include highly customisable stowages, and bi-fold and single-leaf tables.
The First enhanced front-row option includes a buddy seat and a large dedicated table so that passengers travelling together can relax, dine and socialise in a dual or quad environment.
Vantage
And of course, the industry-proven Vantage seat will be on show. This model has now been optimised for the Airbus A321 platform to provide extra room in the footwell and console area. The Vantage continues to attract new customers, with Thai Airways being the latest customer to launch.
“AIX 2026 is perhaps our biggest and best show yet,” said Andy Morris, chief commercial officer at Thompson Aero Seating. “We have so much to share with our airline customers, existing and prospective, and so much to launch to the industry. Exciting times are ahead.”
