The annual Crystal Cabin Awards always serve as a reward for innovation today, and as a trend indicator for what tomorrow’s flight experience might look like. More than 80 entries qualified for the 2023 shortlist, with many reflecting the ever-increasing drive for passenger comfort, an increased focus on accessibility, and the rise of future air mobility
Themes of the March 2023 issue include sustainable seating design, circular sustainability, LEO connectivity, IFE trends and galley design
Vaayu Group has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to be launch customer for ST Engineering’s Access expandable cabin lavatory, which will be fitted on A320 and B737 aircraft. “We believe Access will change the dynamics of the sector”, says Vaayu’s chairman
Qantas has unveiled prototypes of the first and business-class cabins for its ultra-long-haul A350-1000s that can fly between Australia and, well, anywhere else really. Qantas has opted for a bespoke first class suite from Safran, and is launch customer for its Unity business class. With high levels of privacy and comfort, 20-hour flights will just fly by for passengers in the premium classes
United Airlines has invested in a dynamic seat map feature that finds available adjacent seats at the time of booking to help ensure children under 12-years-old will be seated next to an adult in their party
Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) will set the scene for the next chapter of aircraft cabin innovation when it returns to Hamburg Messe in June 2023, amid the year of the aviation industry’s return to profitability
A 3D-printing technology company has reported that its thermoset polyurethanes have passed 14 CFR vertical burn tests, demonstrating compliance with anti-flammability standards for airworthiness. The materials can now be used for 3D-printing parts including stowage compartments, decorative panels, ductwork, cargo liners, fabric sealing and more
World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE) is due to return in June as a bigger event as the aviation industry moves towards full recovery
United has opened a US$32 million expansion of its Inflight Training Center in Houston to support major staff growth. The investment has doubled the size of facility, with highlights including more classroom and training spaces, cabin and door trainers, and a water landing training centre
Keen to maximise opportunities as aviation continues to recover from the pandemic, STG Aerospace has appointed a new, and well known, regional sales director