Collaborative Cabin Solutions: Why Next-Generation Content Supply is Essential for the Cabin of the Future

Collaborative Cabin Solutions: Why Next-Generation Content Supply is Essential for the Cabin of the Future

Watch this PEC Session On-demand

Collaboration is key when it comes to innovative solutions for the aircraft cabin. A next-generation content supply chain is essential to ensure seamless integration across technologies and systems and to enhance the digital passenger experience in the aircraft.

Moderator:

Verena Bintaro, Head of Marketing & PR, AERQ

Panellists:

Jonas von Kruechten, Head of Strategy & Business Development, AERQ
Andre Valera, Director of Business Development, Touch Inflight Solutions, Inc.

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New cabins, new routes – the show goes on

16/11/202117/11/2021

New cabins, new routes – the show goes on

Watch this PEC Session On-demand

Despite the challenges of the past 18 months, aviation, rail and passenger experience leaders are continuing to innovate new cabin environments and preparing to launch new routes, even new airlines. Consumers’ expectations of the brands they engage with, and their priorities in relation to evidenced hygiene and comfort have significantly shifted over the same period. How are the latest onboard service and interiors solutions addressing new traveller needs? And how are underlying passenger experience business models evolving to create robust businesses for the future?

Moderator:

Cristian Sutter, Chief Executive Officer, Avensis Aviation

Panellists:

Ingo Wuggetzer, Vice President Cabin Marketing, Airbus
Juliane Trummer, Vice President Strategy & Design, Mormedi
Anne Bigand, Passenger Experience Director, Alstom
Mariya Stoyanova, Director Product Development, JetBlue Airways
(Nino) Navdip Singh Judge, Chief Executive and Founder, flypop

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The World’s Lowest Carbon Aviation Leather

16/11/202117/11/2021

The World’s Lowest Carbon Aviation Leather

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Hear from Muirhead’s leading sustainable innovations in the leather industry, providing the world’s lowest carbon leather, the strategies they have in place to be zero carbon and zero waste, and how they can help customers achieve their carbon emission targets.

Panellists:

Archie Browning, Sales Director, Muirhead
Dr Warren Bowden, Sustainability and Innovation Director, Scottish Leather Group

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Putting People at the Heart of Each Journey in the Digital Age

16/11/202117/11/2021

Putting People at the Heart of Each Journey in the Digital Age

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Digital interfacing has rapidly become the default way of doing business as we all seek to avoid touching communal surfaces and screens and keep our distance from each other. But travel should also be about emotional connections and journeys that delight. What should this look like for air travel and the inflight experience as we embark on recovery? How can we build the human touch back into flying and create new personal and people-centric experiences? How should our approach be informed by insights from the travel and hospitality sectors?

Moderator:

Simon Calder, Travel Broadcaster and Travel Editor, The Independent

Panellists:

Luc Gesvret, Senior Vice President Guest Experience, Accor Hotels
Jeremy White, Director of Transport Design, Seymourpowell
Tom Mano, Vice President, Products & Services Planning, ANA

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Women Behind Aviation

16/11/202120/02/2023

Watch this AIX Session On-demand

This session will bring together a cross-section of women in senior roles in the aviation sector to discuss their career path; current and future initiatives to improve both diversity in the workforce and in leadership roles; plus immediate challenges for the industry to address. The talking points will include learnings from sectors outside aviation, role models and mentoring both for professional development and to encourage more women into aviation, the benefits that diverse and gender-balanced workforce brings to corporate culture, innovation and the bottom line.

Moderator:

Jane Hobson, Editor, PAX Tech & PAX International magazines

Panellists:

Fadimatou Noutchemo Simo, Founder, Young African Aviation Professional Association
Karyn McAlphin, Design Director, Kydex
Erin Lear, Founder, Birde (female aviation academy)
Jane Hoskisson, Director Talent, Learning, Engagement & Diversity, IATA

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Commercial Aviation & Interiors Market Outlook

16/11/202117/11/2021

Commercial Aviation & Interiors Market Outlook

Watch this AIX Session On-demand

Commercial aviation is on the road to recovery with passenger jet daily flights having recovered to approximately two thirds of 2019’s level, driven primarily by the large domestic markets of the USA and China. However, significant challenges remain in international markets, and several regions of the world are yet to see meaningful recoveries in passenger traffic due to government travel restrictions. What do these challenges mean for the aerospace supply chain, and more specifically the aircraft interiors sector, and how will the industry transform to ensure its return to financial health? This session comprises a commercial aviation market outlook briefing from Ascend by Cirium, as well as an interiors market outlook from Tronos Aviation Consulting. This will be followed by a panel discussion featuring senior representatives in the interiors market, who will debate the challenges and opportunities presented by the current market.

Moderator:

Andrew Doyle, Senior Director, Strategy, Cirium

Panellists:

Rob Morris, Head of Consultancy, Ascend by Cirium
Gary Weissel, Managing Officer, Tronos Aviation Consulting
Harald Mehring, Chief Customer Officer, Diehl Aviation
Beth de Young, VP Business Development, Aircraft Interiors – Lease Customers, Safran

Design Exchange Between the Business Aviation and Commercial Airline Interior Sectors

16/11/202117/11/2021

Design Exchange Between the Business Aviation and Commercial Airline Interior Sectors

Watch this AIX Session On-demand

This session, curated by Business Jet Interiors International magazine, will explore what the business aviation and commercial airline markets can learn from each other to benefit cabin design.

A stellar panel of experts will discuss innovations, trends and general lessons with cross-sector potential; the factors to address to achieve successful crossover; and if there is potential for a service level somewhere in-between the sectors. The session will outline the differences in how each market is structured, conventions in the design and outfitting process, customer requirements and more.

Moderator:

Izzy Kington, Editor, Business Jet Interiors International

Panellists:

Tom Chatfield, CEO, Camber Aviation Management
Howard Guy, CEO, Design Q
Andrew Muirhead, Head of OEM and Engineering services, Lufthansa Technik AG

Encouraging the Start-up Scene in Aviation: How They Can Help Achieve Sustainability Goals

16/11/202106/12/2021

Encouraging the Start-up Scene in Aviation: How They Can Help Achieve Sustainability Goals

Watch this AIX Session On-demand

The aviation start-up ecosystem faces challenges from strict regulations, long cycles and high cost for R&D. Aviation needs to become faster and more open to accomplish its sustainability goals: this can only be achieved if we are open to structural changes and invite new partners, new players, and new ideas. We invite a panel of Crystal Cabin Award Winners and Sustainable Aero lab mentors to discuss how they have succeeded in such a challenging environment and what is the road to success?

Moderator:

Lukas Kaestner, Co-Founder, Sustainable Aero Lab

Panellist:

Dr Achim Leder, Co-founder & CEO, Jetlite GmbH
Nico Buchholz – Aerospace Executive & Co-Founder Flightlevel 500, Mentor at Sustainable Aero Lab (former LH Group and Bombardier)
Omer Bar-Yohay – CEO & Co-Founder Eviation Aircraft

The Crystal Cabin Awards

16/11/202108/06/2022

Watch this AIX Session On-demand

The Crystal Cabin Award is THE international prize for innovation in the aircraft cabin. A high-calibre jury made up of renowned academics, engineers, specialist journalists and airline and aircraft manufacturer representatives come together under the slogan “Let your ideas take off” to honour extraordinary cabin concepts and products. The competition was launched by Hamburg Aviation and is organised by the Crystal Cabin Award Association. This unique honour has been presented at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg every year since 2007. The trophies have become a seal of quality, known and coveted around the world.

Airlines: The Leadership Discussion

16/11/202117/11/2021

Watch this AIX Session On-demand

Airlines were already making many changes to the passenger experience pre-pandemic, but the shock it has provided to the industry has acted as a huge catalyst to speed this up. Everything from getting through the airport to the on board product offer, to customer wellbeing and the approach to sustainability are in a state of flux.

Many aspects of the changing passenger experience are being supported by rapid technological developments, but the priorities and responses vary enormously depending on the market segments addressed by the airline in question. What is significant for the customer base of a global network carrier can be quite different to that of a new start-up, able to begin with a clean sheet of paper and no legacy processes or thinking to overcome.

John Strickland, Director of JLS consulting will be moderating a thought-provoking discussion with senior airline leaders from across the sector, representing different airline business models. Topics covered will include the impact of the pandemic on customer expectations, likely changes in onboard product across different cabins, the importance of digital in managing customer relationships and service experience and the growing importance of good environmental credentials to passengers.

Moderator:

John Strickland, Director,JLS consulting

Panellists:

Tom Stevens, Director of Brand & Customer Experience, British Airways
Birgir Jónsson,CEO, Play
Tonje Wikstrøm Frislid, CEO, Flyr

Global passenger experience industry gathers at AIX Virtual

17/09/202117/09/2021

In Press Releases.

Global passenger experience industry gathers at AIX Virtual

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) and World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE) Virtual welcomed 3,016 attendees to the platform from 14-16 September, reuniting cabin interiors and onboard service professionals from across the globe.

Joining from 160 countries around the world, participants took advantage of invaluable sourcing, networking and learning opportunities. Demonstrating the importance of the event, more than 148 airline, lessor and rail operating companies,– including Qantas, Ryanair, Emirates, Lufthansa, LATAM, Ethiopian Airlines and American Airlines – joined the platform to meet with exhibitors and discover products and conference sessions, tailored to their needs.

With the ongoing challenges facing the global travel industry, the appetite to connect and reignite business opportunities was clearly evident. Over three days, the platform facilitated 1,124 high-quality meetings, helping to not only reconnect the industry as it rebuilds but create new business opportunities for over 150 exhibiting companies.

Speaking about the networking opportunities offered by the virtual platform, Thomas Bulirsch, CEO and Founder of aviationscouts GmbH, said:

“We had a fantastic number of online meetings during the event and developed a lot of new leads. It was just great touching base with many of our customers after such a long time without AIX and having a “virtual beer“ with some of them. Great show, great feedback from our visitors and great new opportunities!”

Alan Casey, VP Global Sales, Marketing and Business Development at Zim Aircraft Seating, added:

“It was a great platform, well constructed and easy to use. We had a high interest level in our product showcases, leading to drop-in meetings. The potential for future business is very high after participating at AIX Virtual 2021. It was great to see like minded companies sharing data and exploring new avenues for collaboration.”

More than 1,931 hours of educational content viewed

A packed line-up featuring more than 100 industry experts provided 30 sessions of on-trend educational content across three conference streams. Visitors could tune into live and on-demand sessions, watching 1,931 hours of content over the course of the show.

At the Passenger Experience Conference, attendees heard experts from All Nippon Airways (ANA), Airbus, JetBlue Airways, flypop, Panasonic Avionics, Heathrow Airport, Virgin Atlantic, Lufthansa Group, Icelandair, Diehl Aviation and Boeing as they tackled a wide range of topics including how to put the passenger at the heart of the journey in the digital age; collaborative cabin solutions; accessibility; the emergence of new cabins, new routes and even new airlines; and how the latest onboard service interiors solutions are addressing evolving passenger needs.

Tailored sessions for the global cabin interiors and onboard services community also ran across the three days, with AIX Sessions welcoming senior airline leaders and suppliers representing British Airways, Play, Flyr, Lufthansa Technik AG, Sekisui Kydex, International Air Transport Association (IATA), Cirium, Diehl Aviation, Safran and the Young African Aviation Professional Association. Here, panels discussed the impact of the pandemic; the importance of collaborative thinking between the business aviation and commercial airline interior sectors; the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion; and sustainability, and the role start-ups can play in helping the industry meet its all-important targets.

Produced in partnership with Onboard Hospitality Magazine, Taste of Travel returned to give onboard services professionals fresh insights from The Aviation Sustainability Forum, NowNewNext, Iberia, Virgin Atlantic, Westjet, Qatar Airways, LSG Group, and Singapore Airlines. Covering everything from sustainability trends; new catering concepts; food allergies and wellness; careers and rebuilding passenger confidence, the sessions helped attendees understand the macro trends that will affect their business in the coming year, and how they can flex their business to meet changing passenger demands.

Get onboard AIX

Find out more about the next Aircraft Interiors Expo and register your interest to join the event.

Women Behind Aviation: Zuzana Obračajová, MAC Aero Interiors

03/09/202120/02/2023

In Blog, Women Behind Aviation, Women in Aviation.

Women Behind Aviation: Zuzana Obračajová, MAC Aero Interiors

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Zuzana Obračajová, Sales Director, Aircraft Interiors at MAC Aero Interiors, as part of our Women in the Aviation series.

This series of interviews aims to shine a spotlight on notable women in the industry and the diverse career opportunities in the sector.

As a leading aircraft interiors specialist for more than 50 years, MAC Aero Interiors has provided solutions to a wide range of airlines, and is now part of the Magnetic MRO family.

Read on to discover more about Zuzana Obračajová and her experiences.

How long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I started in 2011 so I have 10 years of experience working in the aviation industry.”

How did you get into the industry?

“My career path is more of a meandering trail than a direct route, with hard work and serendipity playing equal parts. Aviation is part of who I am. My passion led me to study aviation and air traffic management at University in Prague. I am an ATPL-licenced pilot. In the past ten years, I have built myself up from a design engineer, a project manager to a sales director.

I was involved in a new aircraft development program, as well as actively promoting the Czech aviation industry and its potential on the strategical G2G level. I also founded a start-up focused on VTOL aircraft development, its infrastructure and the environment as I genuinely believe this is where our focus should be at this moment.”

MAC Aero Interiors provide seat refurbishment services.

What is it about working in the aviation industry that appeals to you?

“A job in aviation was always my intent and I consider myself very lucky to work for MAC Aero Interiors, a member of Magnetic MRO Group. Within Magnetic MRO Group I like to focus on the advantages that our organization brings to the industry.

“”If this is what you love, go for it and don’t ever look back.”

Zuzana Obračajová

I believe that my varied work positions and pilot background have allowed me to make contributions to aviation areas such as continuous improvement and new product development, risk assessment and contingency plans but also to sense the opportunity to grow. We support our customers beyond our duty, and we always search for other ways how to bring value to the market.”

As a woman, how do you find working in such a male-dominated industry?

“Creating a gender positive workplace is incredibly important, and having employers go the extra mile to make everyone comfortable definitely helped me reach where I am now. There is a certain level of stigma regarding females in traditionally male industries.

But for me personally, it has always been an aircraft-dominated industry, regardless of the gender of my colleagues. And that would never be possible if I was not given the chance to play by the same rules, have the same opportunities and get the same rewards. I simply do the job I love in the field I love.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“There are still few people that makes it much harder to work in the so-called male field because it’s not enough to be good, you have to be the best. Luckily, I have met only a few of these exemplars. The majority have been very supportive professionals giving me the space to perform, fully trusting my actions and providing guidance if needed.”

As a female senior leader, why do you think it’s important for companies to address the gender gap?

“It should go without saying that gender equality is an asset, not a liability. Companies should focus on the gains from a new perspective; a wider pool of talent as well as improved metrics, as science shows, in gender-balanced workspaces.

With a positive attitude that sees more women in all positions as a competitive and strategic advantage, any company may be capable of reaping the benefits that come with a levelled field.”

MAC Aero Interiors provides galley repair and refurbishment.

What do you believe has been the key to your success?

“I would say my hunger to achieve more, combined with hard work and a piece of luck.”

What characteristics do you believe women need to survive in the aviation industry?

“It is the ability to put your fear behind you. Women have what it takes to become valuable team members and bring different opinions to the table. In a healthy organisation, every opinion matters and different approaches should not be considered as bad or less important.”

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to women succeeding in the workplace?

“The aviation community needs to start perceiving this challenge as a communal issue, something we all share. Without having everyone, not just females themselves, advocating and striving for closing the gender gap, the probability of success seems rather slim.

But if we get all people of all genders to participate in this undeniably positive development, our chances are much higher. One really cannot achieve progress on this issue alone.”

What would you say has been a career highlight to date?

“I have always been focused on working with a prospective customer towards a strategic solution. What becomes of paramount importance is providing the right solution to satisfy the needs of the client.

“Creating a gender positive workplace is incredibly important.”

Zuzana Obračajová

The long process of listening, asking questions, experimenting, measuring results and learning is the essence of the buyer’s journey. After the deal is closed, a successful outcome for the customer becomes all-consuming to me.”

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Sometimes we need to lose the small battles to win the war.”

What advice would you give to female professionals interested in a career in aviation?

“If this is what you love, go for it and don’t ever look back, you are not going that way. Don’t be scared to stand up and speak your mind.”

What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing the aviation industry?

“Definitely climate change. With the growing number of climate neutrality commitments and emission reduction strategies, aviation companies need to reassess their business model while taking into account not only economic indicators but the ecological footprint as well.

I am personally excited about the developments in alternative fuels, new concepts of electric jets and VTOLs, and other paths towards a greener future without having to sacrifice air travel or comfort and wellbeing of passengers and personnel. I am of a firm belief there will be new aviation disciplines, such as short-haul passenger and cargo transport, which will partially replace ground transport.”

What do you believe has been the biggest development in air travel over the past 25 years?

“I say advanced composite materials and design changes to improve aircraft characteristics such as speed, comfort, performance and fuel-efficiency altogether with continuously improved flight procedures to lower the impact on the ground such as noise and pollution.

As business aviation has grown over the decades, jet manufacturers have constantly worked on upgrading their products. In the 90s, winglets were added to the end of the wing. Also using carbon-fibre composites and more complex fuselage shapes to minimize drag and therefore to significantly improve aircraft parameters.”

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Emergency exit and cabin lighting systems from STG Aerospace

25/08/202126/08/2021

Register now to meet us at AIX Virtual

Emergency exit and cabin lighting systems from STG Aerospace

Whatever your lighting requirements we have the right solution for you – from emergency exit to a range of cabin lighting solutions that compliment the cabin interior and enhance your passengers experience. STG Aerospace has worked with OEMs, airlines and MROs for over 25 years. See how we can help you…

Bright ideas. Brilliant solutions

Photoluminescent and electrical lighting technologies provide our two system offerings. In combination, this enables STG to offer unique, optimised solutions as a single source provider for your total lighting requirements.

With full through life in-house capability (including design and certification), customer support is provided throughout the full life cycle of all our lighting products and systems. We are innovative thinkers and problem solvers, always up for a lighting challenge. Which STG Aerospace lighting solution will work for you?

Let it glow

STG Aerospace designed, developed and certified the first patented photoluminescent floor path marking system in 1995 (saf-Tglo®) to address the regulatory requirements for emergency evacuation of passenger cabins.

Why choose photolum exit marking?

100% reliable. With no electrical power source needed, saf-Tglo® is self-powered. If it’s there, it works! Eliminating instances of AOG which can cause delays, cancellations and cost penalties.
Unlimited life. The patented sealed assembly prevents fluid ingress damage and staining. The protective coating is highly durable and designed to withstand the most harsh cabin environments. Replacement is needed on a condition only basis.
Easy to install, charge and maintain. Installation is a simple ‘cut, seal, stick’ process. Charging is via the cabin lighting during aircraft preparation, prior to the first flight of the day. No test coupons or ongoing maintenance is required for the continued airworthiness of STG’s saf-Tglo®.

Since our first generation of saf-Tglo®, we have developed our product offering, market knowledge and understanding of customer changing requirements with continued research and design. Our patented blue glow option, with a soothing blue tone compliments the aesthetics of contemporary cabin designs.

The latest generation of saf-Tglo®, SSUL-X – is the most durable, lightest, narrowest and aesthetically appealing product in the market.

What’s new about saf-Tglo® SSUL-X?

Single multi-model STC – Regardless of aircraft type or width variant, it is all included under one STC pack
Edge to edge – colour that eliminates floor board visibility and reduces view of dirt over lifetime
Widest CMF palette available – including the industry first red daylight colour!
All standard industry widths (18,23,36mm wide)
Matt finish – another market first is our subtle matt finish to blend with the cabin. This is proving a very popular option with our customers. Gloss finish is also available.
Simplified installation – Cut guides and an online installation guide enable a one hour install for typical single aisle aircraft.

Customise your design

saf-Tglo® SSUL-X is fully certified to the latest requirements defined by EASA and the FAA. It is available with a range of custom options to meet specific cabin design requirements including PatternMatch™ to match surrounding carpet’s colour and pattern or BrandMatch™ to incorporate airline branding and colour schemes.

Complete your emergency exit system

STG Aerospace offers a wide portfolio of signage products which utilise the same leading photoluminescence technology as saf-Tglo®. This signage can be installed throughout the cabin to either complete the emergency exit marking system when used as progression signs or to aid passenger guidance.

Speak to our team at AIX virtual to understand how our latest saf-Tglo® floorpath marking systems and signage solutions, together, can provide your emergency exit system.

The Instagramable experience

We understand that retaining passengers in a difficult market is about delighting them with great in-flight experiences. Modern hotels and restaurants have been at the forefront of innovative lighting driving today’s passengers to expect a more sophisticated and customised experience with cabin lighting.

An aircraft cabin is much more than a seating area. It is a:

restaurant
bedroom
Instagram studio
workplace
cinema

STG Aerospace’s range of cabin lighting systems (liTeMood®) are designed, developed and certified, to meet the demanding requirements of airlines, crew and passengers for Airbus and Boeing aircraft.

liTeMood® enables airlines to transform a cabin interior with the latest full colour, dynamic and configurable LED lighting solution. It is fully customisable to any scene or scenario. With 16.7 million colours to choose from, there is an option to meet every requirement. Our team will guide and support you to select the lighting scenes that work best for your brand & your passengers.

Fleet harmony

Working with airlines across the globe we understand that, maintaining a consistent quality lighting experience fleet wide and throughout the flight, is the best way for passengers to connect with the airline brand, while on-board.

How can that be achieved no matter the age/type of aircraft within the fleet? With liTeMood®. It provides a simple and cost effective way of enhancing the cabin ambience to the same or better quality standard as brand-new aircraft.

We have seen increased demand for liTeMood® as airlines seek to either extend the life of their current fleet or integrate new aircraft, yet still require the light quality, functionality and customisation options liTeMood® provides.

Plug, play, fly

liTeMood® is easy to install and operate. It is a plug-and-play programmable lighting system, designed to retrofit commercial aircraft cabins. Fully interchangeable with incumbent lighting systems, requires no changes to aircraft wiring or control systems. liTeMood® is compatible with both Classic and Enhanced CIDS. It can be installed in just six hours (typical single aisle aircraft). Then easily controlled by the existing flight attendant panel. No need for extensive flight crew training.

With MTBF in excess of 800,000 operating hours, liTeMood® is a reliable solution for your ambient lighting requirements. Find out more about liTeMood® and our custom design solutions at AIX Virtual.

View our products in the ADS immersive 3D aircraft interiors showroom www.digitalcabin.aero

Meet STG Aerospace at AIX Virtual

To learn how we can help with your emergency exit or cabin lighting requirements, talk to one of our team at AIX Virtual. Let’s talk lighting!

Product Showcase listings are a paid-for opportunity for cabin interior manufacturers to share their products, services and solutions. If you’d like to showcase your product, get in touch with the AIX Sales team.

Quality of time and comfort in your space

25/08/202106/09/2021

Quality of time and comfort in your space

The ZIM Premium Economy Class has a place with every Airline, within every budget, we have the latest modern, comfortable living space in the skies.

Codenamed PC01 – ZIMmagic and PC-02 ZIMPrivacy. The ergonomic structures offers passengers spacious living areas whilst providing excellent cabin density for the airline.

Passenger needs are well taken care of with a wide variety of selectable features on both platforms.

For example, highlights like, the centre console equipped with cocktail tray, a one piece meal table and in-seat power outlets, ergonomically contoured seat back and bottom, seat articulation, legrest including footbar and 6-way moveable headrest.

Additionally, the new seat can be customized with all common IFE systems and enhanced compatibility with personal electric devices.

Designed with your passengers in mind, ZIM offers a lowerable aisle side armrest as well as integrated in-arm touch-screen monitor.

This unique seat brings even more style, comfort and technology to the modern Premium Economy class cabin. Its enhanced cradle-style recline, featuring patented seat kinematics, accommodates passengers both working and relaxing during flight.

The fixed backrest shell design enables a passenger experience at a seat pitch that doesn’t take up valuable cabin space. This efficient design feature allows the luxury to manage the passenger’s journey with enhanced privacy and personal ownership of space without compromise or intrusions.

Wireless charging, Bluetooth connection, USB integration and personal reading lights are also available.

Our newest seat design the ZIMprivacy, will be delivered to our customers already in 2021.

Several 5 star airlines have chosen our flagship product for their Premium cabins on various aircraft platforms.

Summary

Leading in the Premium Economy Class market and offered on all major single aisle and widebody platforms, the high customisability of the product is easy to realise as we collaborate together to create your brand

With the seats being the main interface between you the airline and your flying passengers, work with ZIM Aircraft Seating to realise the unique space you can create in your cabin.

We are pleased to welcome you to our virtual booth at the AIX Aircraft Interiors Expo 2021

Please register to book a slot, for your personal meeting with us to discuss your requirements.

Register now

SABIC provides lightweight thermoplastic LEXAN™ sheet materials for Aircraft Interiors

25/08/202126/08/2021

https://www.aircraftinteriorsexpo.com/en-gb/exhibitor-list.html

Can we reduce the weight of an aircraft by replacing metal with thermoplastic materials? Every kilo reduced in a commercial airplane leads to less fuel consumption and significant reductions in CO₂ emission.

SABIC developed a “one step” formability as LEXAN™ Light F6L300 sheet can be thermoformed into complex 3D shape parts.

With very thin walls down to 0.6mm, offering substantial potential for overall weight savings and fuel efficiency across an airline fleet.

To produce 3D shape parts as durable and tough as metal equivalent. With weight savings >40%, innovative lightweight closed-cell foam encapsulated by solid outer layers.

That is Chemistry that Matters™

IN SUMMARY:

LEXAN™ F6L300 sheet offers up to 40% weight savings when replacing traditional PVC/PMMA blend based sheet products
Complies with typical industry flame, smoke (FAR25.853) and Airbus/Boeing toxicity requirements (BSS7239, ABD0031)
Innovative lightweight closed cell foam encapsulated by solid outer layers
Can be thermoformed into complex 3D shape parts with very thin walls, offering substantial potential for overall weight savings and fuel efficiency across an airline fleet
Samples available in standard gray and black colors
Technical support from SABIC available for sampling and thermoforming

POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS:

Seatbacks
Kick panels
Side panels
Seat trims
Magazine holders
Cockpit dashboard enclosures and components
Partitions
Luggage compartments
Passenger service units

For more information, please visit our website www.sabic.com/ff or follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/sabic-functional-forms-solutions/

Link: To the Exhibitor Directory (SABIC Booth)

The passenger experience industry reconnects as AIX Virtual platform goes live

24/08/2021

In Press Releases.

The passenger experience industry reconnects as AIX Virtual platform goes live

The online platform for Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) and World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE) Virtual is now live. Registered attendees can now use the digital platform to update their personal profiles, search for exhibitors, pre-schedule business meetings, and more – all before the virtual event takes place online from 14 – 16 September 2021. Register today to join the global cabin interiors and onboard services community for three days of networking and learning.

Plan your time at AIX and WTCE Virtual

Reconnecting the cabin interiors and passenger experience industry and facilitating important networking opportunities, the AIX and WTCE Virtual platform enables attendees to find specific products and services of interest and use the smart AI appointment system to match their needs with leading suppliers – ensuring they discover the right solutions and business contacts to meet their requirements.

The new flexible digital platform allows visitors to view contacts across both AIX and WTCE, accept meeting requests and view their complete show schedule including confirmed meetings and conference sessions. Attendees can watch a walkthrough video (below), demonstrating the functionality of the platform features.

Engage with brand new suppliers for 2021

In addition to invaluable networking and learning opportunities, visitors will be able to explore new products and solutions from a range of exhibitors across the supply chain. New exhibitors will be joining AIX for the first time including AD Aerospace, PACE Aerospace Engineering and Information Technology GmbH, Aviocost S.p.a., Clarendon Specialty Fasteners, ATTAX, CCX Technologies, Generation Global, L&L Products, Digital IFE Services and Flitetec. Registered attendees can use the product directory to view the full offering on show from participating exhibitors to discover the latest innovations.

John Hill, CEO of Generation Global commented: “This virtual event has been a real plus for Generation Global whose sales team is located in New Zealand and cannot travel globally, even if we wanted to. With no packing up and travel required, we will be able to respond to attendee’s needs quicker and more efficiently from our own office than when we attended a physical event. We admit that a physical event still has its place, but we feel that this virtual event will give us new opportunities to reconnect with the aviation industry as it gets back onto its feet. See you there!”

Joining the line-up, L&L Products will showcase its aerospace solutions including FST adhesives range L-9107 / L-9120 and its new L-9060. Patrick Siboni, Key Account Manager aerospace and composites at L&L Products, said:

“AIX Virtual provides an important platform to gather the industry and discover the latest innovations. AIX offers the best opportunity to network across the cabin interiors supply chain. Being virtual this year allows us to interface with attendees we have relationships with, in addition to new connections who would not traditionally attend the show in person. Attending AIX Virtual is very important in this time of lockdown to stay in contact with the market.”

Register for AIX Virtual

Take your seat at AIX Virtual and reconnect with the industry.

Mobile ONAIR 4G: the next generation of Mobile Inflight Connectivity

18/08/202118/08/2021

Mobile ONAIR 4G: the next generation of Mobile Inflight Connectivity

Mobile ONAIR 4G allows passengers to use their mobile phones onboard aircraft, just like travelling in another country. The service is made available for passengers under an all-inclusive roaming bundle deals that drives adoption, usage, and ancillary revenue for airlines.

SITA’s next-generation airborne service, Mobile ONAIR 4G, gives passengers a fast and seamless experience. As a simple add-on to the inflight Wi-Fi system, it is a cost-effective solution for airlines and presents solid opportunities for generating ancillary revenues.

With Mobile ONAIR 4G, passengers can access this inflight cellular service using their all-inclusive data plan with their mobile operators, eliminating ‘bill shock’ and the need to authenticate or input payment details beforehand. Under SITA’s global agreements with mobile network operators (MNOs), Mobile ONAIR 4G supports multiple service providers and contracts used by passengers, enhancing the overall inflight connectivity experience.

The Small Cell Unit enables a mobile 4G network onboard aircraft as an add-on to Wi-Fi. It can easily integrate into any connectivity server and aircraft backhauling system (satellite or Air-to-Ground). The unit operates in and allows for switching between 3G or 4G modes.

Additionally, the Small Cell Unit is already ‘5G-ready’, built to be compatible with 5G new radio (NR) access technology. It means the advanced cellular network will be adopted wherever it becomes available to accommodate the evolution of passenger expectation and the rise in the Internet of Things (IoT).

Start embarking on the inflight 4G & 5G revolution with Mobile ONAIR 4G. Find out how we can help you at: www.sita.aero/mobileonair

Meet SITA at AIX Virtual

ADS Digital Cabin: an innovative visual experience for UK interiors

18/08/202126/08/2021

ADS Digital Cabin: an innovative visual experience for UK interiors

With the pandemic’s impact on exhibitions, aerospace trade association, ADS, has come up with a solution. Introducing the new Digital Cabin, an immersive 3D aircraft interiors showroom accessible online, globally 24/7. OEMs and airline buyers move around a realistic aircraft interior, exploring the technologies and capabilities from the exhibiting companies from UK and Eire, rendered in 3D for a realistic perspective.

www.digitalcabin.aero

ADS Digital Cabin – a one stop global shop

The Digital Cabin is an interactive web-based showroom where leading airline interiors companies represent themselves with exciting 3D renders of their products, instead of flat text and images.

This is an innovative and unique B2B solution. Aviation buyers, engineers and designers can now look around the inside of an aircraft cabin 24/7 with just an internet connection and a laptop, tablet, or VR goggles. In one place, users can access a rich range of UK aircraft interiors innovation, from pioneering seat concepts to advanced electronics, lighting, and expert contract manufacturers. There are tech sheets, 3D visualisations and sales contact information.

“We wanted to create a realistic cabin experience; presenting buyers with everything from seat designs to lighting effects and subcomponents. This gives a unique look and feel for the product in a cabin geometry, which is tricky even at a physical trade show” – Omar Kadhim – ADS Head of Aerospace Business Development.

Aircraft Interiors Companies – who’s on board?

There are currently eight customers in the initial launch at AIX 2021. They encompass pioneering seat designers and lighting specialist and others who make the highly engineered materials and subcomponents in the cabin such as arm rests, seat supports, fabrics and biomaterials.

ADS Marketing & Engagement Manager, Nicola Green, says “3D visualisation helps build customer confidence and is playing an increasingly important role in the B2B sales process. The UK is world-leading in its innovative aerospace products and I’m delighted that we are able to leverage 3D technology to help UK SMEs reach a global marketplace”.

Airtek, is a government-funded consortium between Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE), JPA and SWS Aircraft Certification. They offer a pioneering all-composite seat which reduces weight dramatically and were the first to sign up.

Stuart Olden, WAE’s Senior Commercial Manager, said: “When ADS told me about the Digital Cabin concept I thought it was a great idea. The Airtek seat is a pioneering premium-class totally lie-flat configuration and in the virtual cabin environment, people can interact with the seat and its functionality. Our individual web page incorporates 3D renders, fact sheets and video enabling us to get our key message across in a number of different ways.”

TT Electronics supplies a range of human management interface (HMI) solutions for the cabin including mood lighting, passenger control units, and illuminated signage.

Stacey Vinther, TT Electronics Marketing Manager, said “Our HMI technologies are visual by nature – the ability to touch and interact with our solutions is really important. The Digital Cabin will enable customers to really immerse themselves into the virtual aircraft cabin and see how our products enhance the passenger experience”.

STG Aerospace – is best known for its saf-Tglo photo-luminescent signage and emergency floor path marking system and has expanded into LED cabin lighting with liTeMood ®. In showing their range of lighting solutions virtually they can demonstrate how lighting combines paramount safety with state-of-the-art design, to enhance the passenger experience.

“It’s critical now more than ever that we continue to support our customers and the wider aerospace industry. We want to ensure our customers know that whatever the lighting requirements, our in-house expertise will manage the whole process, from initial design through to certification and reducing maintenance. STG are excited to add the ADS Digital Cabin to our customer experience and are delighted to showcase this at AIX Virtual”. Grant Bennett – STG Aerospace CEO

Other companies include:

IPC – SC21 Gold Award Winner, IPC, use the ‘X-ray’ view feature in the cabin to showcase their injection moulding capability with a screen bezel and latch assembly on a premium economy seat, whilst externally the armrest and tray assembly will be on display.
Flitetec specialise in the approved repair, manufacture and distribution of spare parts for all types of aircraft interior products, helicopter interiors, cabin windows and transparencies.
Future Plastics is the leading supplier in Theromoforming and CNC machining
Cecence is an award winning sustainable composites innovator showcasing their novel seat back structure
Bradfor – have chosen the Digital Cabin’s surface rendering tools to help buyers visualise their high-quality premium fabric and upholstering capability

Digital Cabin – enhancing the ‘Brand UK’ sales proposition

The ADS Digital Cabin offers an immersive space that gives a visual summary of what the UK has to offer. As more companies get involved, it will deliver an increasingly richer way to express the broad and deep capability of the sector.

Omar Kadhim – ADS Head of Aerospace Business Development says: “We’re excited to finally launch this new tool for cabin and MRO buyers to explore the market. 3D web technology brings the cabin to life and allows SMEs to market themselves in a way that’s cost effective, fresh and engaging.”

At an individual exhibitor level, the digital cabin has been created to support the existing sales process rather than replace it. Each exhibitor has their own information page. Users can interact with products in 3D and link to technical specifications, videos and sales contacts 24/7 – greatly enhancing the bandwidth of exhibiting companies. The pages can also sit within an iframe on the individual exhibitor’s website.

How can companies get involved?

UK companies looking to exhibit should contact Omar Kadhim: omar.kadhim@adsgroup.org.uk

AIX Sessions look to the future of cabin interiors with roster of experts

17/08/202113/08/2021

In Press Releases.

AIX Sessions look to the future of cabin interiors with roster of experts

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) Virtual will host a first-class programme of educational seminars when it returns in a digital format from 14 – 16 September 2021. Through a series of AIX Sessions, attendees can gain insights from experts and leaders in the cabin interior industry as they share their experiences, the latest insights and data, as well as relevant case studies to help solve current and future challenges in aircraft cabin design.

Future gazing as the aviation industry starts its recovery

Commercial aviation is on the road to recovery with daily passenger flights having recovered to approximately two-thirds of 2019’s level, according to Cirium, driven primarily by the large domestic markets of the USA and China. However, significant challenges remain in international markets, and several regions of the world are yet to see meaningful recoveries in passenger traffic due to government travel restrictions. So, what do these challenges mean for the aerospace supply chain and more specifically the aircraft interiors sector, and how will the industry transform to ensure its return to financial health?

As travel looks to return, there are still challenges for the industry.

A session dedicated to answering these questions will see Rob Morris, Head of Consultancy at Ascend by Cirium, deliver a commercial aviation market outlook briefing alongside an interiors market outlook from Gary Weissel, Managing Officer at Tronos Aviation Consulting. Following this, a panel discussion moderated by Andrew Doyle, Senior Director, Strategy, Cirium and featuring Harald Mehring, Chief Customer Officer at Diehl Aviation and Beth de Young, VP Business Development, Aircraft Interiors – Lease Customers at Safran, will debate the challenges and opportunities presented by the current market.

Celebrating Women Behind Aviation

Following AIX’s successful Women Behind Aviation campaign in 2020, AIX Virtual will host a dedicated panel celebrating and highlighting the role of women working across the industry. This session will bring together a cross-section of women in senior roles in the aviation sector including Fadimatou NOUTCHEMO SIMO, Founder of Young African Aviation Professional Association; Karyn McAlphin, Design Director at Sekisui Kydex; Erin “Elle” Lear, entrepreneur, humanitarian and aviation heiress who launched Birde – the first female aviation academy, and Jane Hoskisson, Director Talent, Learning, Engagement & Diversity at IATA.

They will come together to discuss their career paths; current and future initiatives to improve both diversity in the workforce and leadership roles; plus immediate challenges for the industry to address. Moderated by Jane Hobson, Editor of PAX International and PAX Tech magazines, the all-female panel will discuss learnings from sectors outside aviation, role models and mentoring both for professional development and encourage more women into aviation, along with the benefits that a diverse and gender-balanced workforce brings to corporate culture, innovation and the bottom line.

Design exchange between business and commercial

A session curated by Business Jet Interiors International magazine and moderated by the magazine’s editor, Izzy Kington, will explore what the business aviation and commercial airline markets can learn from each other to benefit cabin design. Experts including Tom Chatfield, CEO of Camber Aviation Management; Howard Guy, CEO of Design Q; and Andrew Muirhead, Head of OEM and Engineering services at Lufthansa Technik AG will come together to discuss innovations, trends and general lessons with cross-sector potential. They will explore the factors required to achieve a successful crossover; and if there is potential for a service level somewhere in-between the sectors. The session will outline the differences in how each market is structured, conventions in the design and outfitting process, customer requirements and more.

What can business and commercial aviation share when it comes to cabin design?

A more innovative future for aviation

Focusing on encouraging the startup ecosystem in aviation and how they can help achieve sustainability goals, we will welcome a panel of Crystal Cabin Award Winners and Sustainable Aero lab mentors. Moderated by Lukas Kaestner, Co-Founder, Sustainable Aero Lab, experts including Dr Achim Leder, Co-founder & CEO, Jetlite GmbH, Nico Buchholz, Aerospace Executive and Co-Founder of Flightlevel 500, Mentor at Sustainable Aero Lab and Omer Bar-Yohay, Founder and CEO of Eviation Aircraft, will come together to discuss how they have succeeded in such a challenging environment and what the road to success looks like.

The Crystal Cabin Award returns this year.

Finally, AIX will also play host to the highly-anticipated Crystal Cabin Awards, world-renowned as the international prize for innovation in aircraft cabin design. These prestigious awards have been presented at Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg every year since 2007, and this year will take place during the virtual event on Wednesday 15^th September from 15.15-16.15 CEST. A high-calibre jury made up of renowned academics, engineers, specialist journalists and airline and aircraft manufacturer representatives will present the awards that aim to honour extraordinary cabin concepts and products.

Polly Magraw, Event Director at RX (Reed Exhibitions), said: “It’s incredibly exciting to announce the programme of AIX Sessions ahead of the virtual event in September. Alongside the Passenger Experience Conference and Taste of Travel agenda at WTCE, the events educational programme is shaping up to be one no cabin interior professional can miss as we look ahead to recovery. We’re delighted to welcome so many industry experts, both familiar faces and new names, to discuss some of the most pertinent topics the aviation industry should be discussing to influence the future.”

Sign up to attend AIX Virtual

Take your seat at AIX Virtual to attend the AIX Sessions this September.

Drive growth with new fast cure adhesive from 3M

16/08/202126/08/2021