The changing landscape of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO)

In Interviews.

AJW Group is a world-leading independent parts, repair, lease, engine, flight hour programme and supply chain solutions integrator.

The group’s AJW Technique Interiors offers fully tailored solutions, including a revolutionary new synthetic material, SkyLeather®. Their business offers support to over 1,000 airlines across 100 countries.

As part of our exhibitor interviews series, AIX sat down with AJW Group’s Interiors Programme Manager, Sohaib Ahmed. We discussed how the company’s product, SkyLeather®, is providing airlines and passengers with a chemical-free, sustainable, synthetic leather for use in aircraft seating solutions.

Can you introduce yourself, your company and your products to us?

“I’m Sohaib Ahmed – Interiors Programme Manager at AJW. Our company is a leader in providing end-to-end solutions for the aviation industry.

Our products and services include SkyLeather®, cabin interior services, supply chain management, asset management, part sales and support, AJW technique, managed MRO, engine services, power-by-the-hour, and our leasing and capital division.”

And what will you be showcasing at AIX 2023?

“This year we will be showcasing our SkyLeather® material – a revolutionary material that is changing the way we think about synthetic leather.

It is a unique, sustainable, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional synthetic leather which is made from petrochemicals. SkyLeather® is made from water-based polyurethane which makes this material highly durable and flexible.”

“It is highly durable and it’s resistant to wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for aircraft cabin interior applications.”

Sohaib Ahmed

“It can be used to create a wide range of products which includes aircraft seat covers and other applications within the aircraft cabin interior.

One of the key benefits of SkyLeather® is its sustainability – it is free from chemicals; it does not contain harmful chemicals like polyvinyl chloride, making it a safer and healthier choice for the passenger and the environment.

One of the other key benefits of SkyLeather® is that it is highly durable and it’s resistant to wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for aircraft cabin interior applications. It is also easy to clean and maintain, which helps reduce the cost of cabin maintenance.”

Are there any innovations or trends that you’re anticipating in the aviation and interiors industry this year?

“Well, I think sustainability is a focus for the aviation industry – to become more carbon neutral. Airlines are considering new sustainable technologies for cabin interiors like SkyLeather®, for example.

Airlines are expected to adopt more eco-friendly materials for aircraft interiors, such as recycled textiles, bio-based composites, bio resins, and the use of bamboo and hemp technologies as well.”

“Exhibiting at AIX…provides us with a platform to showcase our products and services to a targeted audience.”

Sohaib Ahmed

“Another trend we’ve seen is touchless technologies in their aircraft cabins, such as touchless lavatories, overhead bins having an opening sensor, without having to physically open them.

There are other trends such as enhancing passenger experience by incorporating more personalisation. Such as, passengers having their own ambient light, which they can control from a panel, and personalised, individualised entertainment systems.

There is also an increased use of augmented and virtual reality, especially when it comes to the aircraft cabin. There’s been a lot of involvement in this; airlines are expected to adopt more of these virtual reality technologies to provide passengers with a more interactive and immersive experience.”

What are you or the company looking forward to seeing and experiencing again at AIX?

“I am eager to witness the latest advancements in cabin interiors and sustainable manufacturing technologies. Many of the OEM’s have unique and cutting edge innovations to display at this show, which I’m eager to experience.”

“One of the key benefits of SkyLeather® is its sustainability.”

Sohaib Ahmed

“You always see something new, a new type of composite material used in the seat structure, which is making the seat even lighter; more comfortable. So it’s always interesting to see what the OEMs are doing; what research and development companies are doing with their new type of materials with the use of biocomposites and bio resins.”

Why are you coming back to AIX?

“AIX is a leading interiors exhibition globally, and I think it’s a must-attend event for any company engaged in cabin interior solutions as the right type of audience and key people are there.

We’ve had huge success. Last year, when we launched SkyLeather®, we met with a lot of airlines and leasing companies who showed great interest in our SkyLeather® material and our other capabilities as well.

We are in quite advanced discussions with some of those customers. So that’s why it’s important as a company that we exhibit at the show, and for anyone who’s involved in cabin interiors.”

Why is exhibiting or attending AIX important for you and your company?

“Exhibiting at AIX is important for AJW Group – I think the main reason is because it provides us a platform to showcase our products and services to a targeted audience where the key players are attending.”

“AIX is a leading interiors exhibition globally.”

Sohaib Ahmed

“The decision makers are attending and it’s a unique opportunity to network with them and it helps us establish relationships and generate new business.”

Would you recommend AIX to other companies? And please share why.

“Of course. Like I said previously, any company who’s involved with cabin interiors – must exhibit (or attend the show, at least!). It’s a must because all the airlines, all the decision makers and the right contractors are attending.

It’s a great opportunity to discuss your company’s capability, the services and products you can offer. I’m pretty confident you will find new business opportunities visiting the show.”

Barriers to Flying: “Enough is enough.”

27/03/202306/03/2024

In Trends.

Air travel has become an essential part of modern life, connecting people across the world in ways that were once unimaginable.

However, for many people with restricted mobility or disabilities, air travel can be a daunting and challenging experience. In this article, the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team speak to the campaigners advocating for change, and assess the progress made to make air travel more accessible to all.

One of the biggest challenges continuing to face disabled passengers is physical accessibility – from boarding and disembarking to the ability to use onboard facilities once in the cabin. Airlines are required to provide accessible facilities and services, but the reality is often not fit for purpose. In fact, the overall lack of access and lack of safety for the passenger with a physical disability is among the biggest concerns raised by those campaigning for change.

Take wheelchair users, for example. Unlike most modes of transport on the ground, air travel is one of the only methods of transport that does not allow passengers to travel in their own wheelchairs.

“Enough is enough. Disabled people need to be able to have the confidence to trust air travel.”

Sophie Morgan, British TV presenter

Treatment of equipment onboard

Speaking about his own experience, WheelChairTravel.org founder John Morris revealed that one of the primary concerns, particularly of wheelchair users, as well as any passengers travelling with some form of mobility device or aid, is the treatment of that device as it is loaded into cargo or transported in some capacity.

In fact, in 2019, following the introduction of new federal requirements in the United States, commercial airlines were, for the first time, required to report how often they gate-checked wheelchairs and scooters, as well as how often passengers reported those devices as damaged, lost, delayed or stolen.

Service man helping disabled passenger to enter on board at airport — Credit: Getty

While accessibility onboard had long been recognised as a pain point for passengers, and a potential area for development for airlines, the hard realisation of the quantity and value of the damage incurred was finally available in black and white – although still not a full picture of the problem globally.

The reporting revealed that airlines had mishandled more than 800 wheelchairs, the equivalent of 1.5 damaged chairs for every 100 flown over the course of one month. The consequence of such damage is far-reaching with many affected passengers opting not to fly to avoid such physical, emotional, and financial damage.

“From my own research, I know that disabled people are purchasing premium cabin seating at a higher frequency.”

John Morris, Founder – WheelChairTravel.org

Speaking about the challenges and how the industry is responding, John Morris said:

“I think that for a lot of the challenges that passengers face, there are easy solutions. I’ve noticed there has recently been an investment in loading devices that allow a wheelchair to be placed on the belt loader and into the hold without ramp personnel ever having to lift the wheelchair.

“Physically, lifting a 200kg wheelchair is a really bad idea, and should never be done. For years, I have said there is equipment out there that would eliminate the necessity if airlines would just invest in it. I think it would reduce the frequency of wheelchairs being damaged, and certainly the number of wheelchairs severely damaged or destroyed.”

The cost of damages

However, John recognises that solving damage to wheelchairs is an interim solution and moving to allow passengers with their wheelchairs in the cabin was a key priority – not only to respect the disabled traveller, but also for the airline’s bottom line.

He explained: “I travel a lot, so I am subject to a higher number of damage incidents than most travellers. Last year, I had two wheelchairs completely destroyed, costing the airlines more than $100,000. That’s a big impact on the bottom line.

A close-up shot of two mature women disembarking the airplane at an airport, one woman is visually impaired and can be seen holding a cane, they are wearing casual clothing. — Credit: Getty

So, while there is certainly a business case for an interim solution, the long-term solution will not only focus on the damage issue, but on delivering and maintaining the dignity of disabled flyers with a wheelchair space in the cabin. It exists on all other modes of transportation and there have been studies here in the US that say it’s technically feasible. If we can get past some of the red tape, it will not take as long as we think.”

Time for change in the industry

Progress in getting wheelchairs in the cabin has taken a leap with tangible change being recognised across the industry. Speaking about the progress made, Michele Erwin, Founder of All Wheels Up, said:

“The aviation industry is a very conservative, slow-moving industry. However, the biggest change I have witnessed over the past 12-24 months is a commitment to access, and the future of accessible travel. Specifically, the recognition for, and real interest in, a wheelchair spot on planes.”

She continued: “Wheelchairs and wheelchair securement systems already meet the standards that are outlined for airplane seats. In fact, these devices exceed the standards of an airplane seat and are testing at 20G vs. 16Gs. We know that a wheelchair spot is possible.

“Airlines are not shying away from the table or the opportunity to be part of the conversation on inclusive travel. “

Michele Erwin, Founder – All Wheels Up

Wheelchair-accessible lavatories have already been developed. The biggest hurdle is the economic impact on the airlines.

It is a commercial question of:

will the airlines lose money by making these accommodations?
will they or won’t they lose valuable space onboard?
what is the financial impact on the airline?”

airplane lavatory door with stickers — Credit: Getty

Chris Wood MBE, Founder/Director of Flying Disabled, agreed, stating: “An airline’s first priority will be how do I fit that in operationally, how would that fit within our current focus, what’s the cost? But there are no more excuses. The conversation is developing but to have those conversations, we need to have a solution, and now we do.”

Air4All

The solution Chris refers to has been created by Air4All – a consortium of industry leaders – headed up by Nigel Smith, Director of SWS; Daniel MacInnes, Director at PriestmanGoode, and Chris Wood Founder/Director at Flying Disabled.

In partnership with Sunrise Medical, the consortium has established a system aiming to revolutionise air travel for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). The proposal enables users to remain in their wheelchairs for the entire journey without reducing the seat count for airlines.

Launched in 2021, it offers practical improvements to the aircraft cabin and overall aviation transport experience for severely disabled people — resulting in greater independence, dignity, and freedom of travel. And it’s not the only project which demonstrates the possibilities for a wheelchair space in the cabin.

cartoon of elderly passengers in airline cabin — Credit: Getty

A team from Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research has received international recognition for a design that would allow WC19-certified manual and power wheelchairs to be used as a seat on board commercial airlines.

The Fly Your Wheels Suite — designed by NIAR researchers and students in the Advanced Virtual Engineering and Test Labs (AVET), in collaboration with Collins Aerospace and Q’Straint — can be implemented near the first-class cabin of a single-aisle aircraft, such as a Boeing 737.

It creates a free space where passengers with their own wheelchairs can choose their seating orientation, both forward and rear-facing.

And the good news is that airlines are already attending these conversations, looking for ways to collaborate with airframers and OEMs to find a truly practical application. Speaking about the appetite for change, Michele Erwin, added:

“Airlines are not shying away from the table or the opportunity to be part of the conversation on inclusive travel. We applaud them for the efforts they are currently taking – such as the Air4All commitment to improve accessible air travel.”

Airlines want to be involved

Chris Wood agrees and explains that there is a level of optimism given the parties now coming to the table to discuss this. “We now have everybody that needs to be involved. There is nobody left out to stop it from finally happening. Working with Sunrise Medical gives us a great advantage, but we’re in contact with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) in Canada.

The next step is to ensure that there is a joined-up approach, meaning that every leg of the journey applies the same thinking and approach to passenger inclusivity.”

Service man helping disabled passenger to enter on board at airport from behind — Credit: Getty

He continued, “it’s important to note that the impact in the US is far greater because of the frequency of air travel, over buses or trains. Our biggest hurdle remains the investment, and the willingness to adapt the cabin. Changing the cabin for greater accessibility is a broad spectrum, and I always feel that innovation could do more – this might be the trigger.

But we do know that the rules of engagement in aviation are different. This is a pressurised cabin, flying at 500 miles per hour, 30,000 feet in the air. We have to consider everybody’s safety, and that word – safety – is something we have not, and will not, deviate from.”

Barriers to flying: a global issue

Far from being a US-only issue, British TV presenter and paraplegic Sophie Morgan is among the latest campaigners to draw attention to the damage caused following her experience travelling between Los Angeles and London.

She is a disability advocate and recognised campaigner for inclusive and accessible travel, who has partnered with Disability Rights UK to launch a new campaign to demand that the UK Government grants the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) power to fine airlines and other actors if they fail to look after disabled passengers and their equipment.

Speaking about the campaign, Sophie said:

“Enough is enough. This is a short-term solution to an ongoing problem and the beginning of a long journey towards a whole system overhaul of the entire airline industry. Disabled people need to be able to have the confidence to trust air travel.

And this campaign is the first step for that. We are not asking for special treatment. We are asking for our experiences to match those of non-disabled people.

“There are no more excuses…we need to have a solution, and now we do.”

Chris Wood MBE, Founder/Director – Flying Disabled

While strides are being made to change the experience for wheelchair users, there has also been significant progress in the cabin, as John Morris explains: “Often, when we’re thinking about accessibility, the first thing that pops into people’s minds is the wheelchair and the wheelchair user. There are certainly millions of us other there, but that isn’t the full scope of the disability community and the spectrum of disability.”

cartoon of a disabled and able-bodied passengers in airplane cabin — Credit: Getty

He elaborates: “I think United Airlines has been a great example of a carrier that’s adding technical accessibility features into the inflight entertainment (IFE) solutions. There are a lot of carriers that don’t have IFC, but for those that do, the majority of those systems are not accessible to those who have limited vision or are blind. United has included a new feature that makes its IFE solutions accessible to people who have a vision impairment.”

The solution, referenced by John, “accommodates any level of vision, as well as provides support for customers with hearing and mobility issues’. It includes text-to-speech mode, captions and subtitles, audio descriptions and closed captions, as well as a variety of other visual settings and features from magnification, high-contrast text and paging arrows allow passengers to navigate the system with simple touch gestures or a mouth stylus.

While this is a small part of the challenges facing disabled passengers, it demonstrates one of many small steps airlines are taking to further improve the passenger experience for all.”

Technology’s role in accessibility

John adds: “It’s really exciting to me, and I’m hoping that as this technology evolves, whether that’s captioning IFE or other facilities that allow people to interact in an accessible manner with those devices, I’m hopeful that this will reverberate throughout the industry.

There are some areas that present key challenges. Take lavatory accessibility, for example. In the US, our Air Carrier Act requires accessible lavatories on wide-body aircraft. However, I would say that 75% of those, at most, put accessibility in quotation marks.”

“Accessibility onboard had long been recognised as a pain point for passengers, and a potential area for development for airlines.”

John Morris, Founder – WheelChairTravel.org

Michele points out the additional work underway to push developments in this area. She adds: “All Wheels Up is currently campaigning to add two stand-alone bills into the FAA Reauthorisation Act, including an economic impact study to implement a wheelchair spot on airlines and establishing a Center of Excellence for Accessible Air Travel (COE) to help research all accessible air travel issues. This would provide Universities with a 10-year sustainable source of funding to conduct the research needed.”

Current solutions for onboard lavatories present unique challenges. Here, John references a mid-cabin solution that is typically housed in the centre row, combining two standard lavatories with a bi-fold wall in the centre. However, he stresses that it doesn’t provide the accessibility that disabled people need.

He explained: “It’s extremely challenging and often they are in the middle of the economy class cabin, so nowhere near a boarding door. Airlines don’t just need to think about equipping the cabin with accessible features, but where accessible facilities should be located, as well as where disabled people should be seated on the aircraft.

For example, passengers using an aisle chair who have difficulty walking, who may be semi-ambulatory, should be near the boarding door not only for their comfort but also for their safety. That is currently being overlooked.”

Passengers trends for those with disabilities

John continued: “From my own research, I know that disabled people are purchasing premium cabin seating at a higher frequency. However, there has been a notable regression in this area. Business seats are becoming less and less accessible.

What is declared as the ‘best business class ever’ is actually the least accessible. Privacy and the installation of doors and larger seating shells are being put above accessibility to some degree. It is an attack on the dignity of the passenger, but also their independence.

Take herringbone style seats, for example. Positioned partially and equally askew in one direction, they entirely prevent a lateral transfer, or even safe assisted transfer, so there is still a lot of work to do.”

cartoon characters stood in front of landing plane — Credit: Getty

Accessible travel for all

And while there is an optimism shared by John, Chris and Michele, all three agree that airlines have a responsibility to ensure that air travel is accessible to all passengers, including those with disabilities. As John explains:

“You can’t fix a problem that you don’t know exists. The first step is education, and it’s not something to be ashamed of, but an opportunity to act upon.”

Airlines are encouraged to take the steps not because it’s just the right thing to do, but because there is a business case for it. Carriers are recognising the opportunity which will present the interior design community and OEMS, with a clear and present opportunity to deliver these products to their airline customers in the near future.

By providing safe and dignified cabin access to passengers, regardless of disability, airlines can make air travel a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone. Furthermore, by creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, airlines can help remove the barriers that prevent people with disabilities from travelling and exploring the world.

Learn more about the carriers, suppliers and products that are breaking down barriers to accessibility onboard at Aircraft Interiors Expo this year.

Comfort above the Clouds: A Bright Future For Aircraft Cabins

17/03/202321/03/2023

Comfort above the Clouds: A Bright Future For Aircraft Cabins

Credit: Crystal Cabin Awards

With passenger numbers resurgent following the collapse of 2020, aviation has once again set its sights high. To make flying more attractive, sustainable and comfortable, passenger solutions have become an even higher priority across the industry than ever before.

In 2023, the annual Crystal Cabin Awards will once again serve as a trend indicator for what might could by in the skies tomorrow. More than 80 entries qualified for the 2023 shortlist.

This year the renowned trophy will once again be awarded in eight categories on 6 June 2023 in Hamburg, the birthplace of the award, during Aircraft Interiors Expo. As every year, an international jury of experts will crown the winners.

Download the shortlist now

Added comfort with modular solutions and better use of space

On long-haul flights, providing a relaxing space for sleep becomes a high priority. In Economy, however, passengers often have to make sacrifices. With Skynest, Air New Zealand presents an option for routes such as Auckland-Vancouver that long-haul Economy travellers have long dreamt of: a real, flat bed. Installed in sleep islands in the middle section of the aircraft, Skynest bunk beds can be booked for time slots, enabling a restive nap above the clouds for those on lower fares.

Ultra-long-haul flights are generally becoming increasingly popular. Those allowing themselves a little more luxury in Premium Economy will in future be able to fold up the armrests and use several seats as a bed; that, at least, is the promise of the Paradym concept by Lift Aero Design.

American Airlines also takes a comprehensive look at the future of long-haul with its new cabin concept. Together with Teague, the carrier presents various layouts for wide- and narrow-body aircraft that provide a neat solution for a well-known problem: the front seat row in premium economy faces a partition instead of a backrest, forcing designers to build tables and screens into these passengers’ seats in turn pushing up maintenance requirements.

American Airlines’ concept incorporates tables and screens into the wall in front of the front Premium Economy row.

With Allegris, the Lufthansa Group presents a new cabin product from autumn 2023 across all four classes: First, Business, Premium Economy and Economy. While the latter will primarily benefit from more legroom and Premium Economy will enjoy more privacy, Business and First

Class offering will see massive upgrades. Guests will find, among other added benefits, suites with double beds or heated seats.

More sustainability in the cabin

For many people, aviation isn’t closely associated with sustainability. A future in which new engines and fuels dramatically reduce CO2 emissions still seems far away. For the Crystal Cabin Award jury, it has become even more important to award prizes for entries not merely labelled as part of a “green” trend, but to honour innovations that can make a real difference in the aircraft cabin.

Here, change often begins with reduced materials use, recyclable components and waste reduction. A good example is the Food Waste App from Lufthansa Industry Solutions, that uses AI to measure what passengers leave on their trays and makes suggestions for the next catering plan based on this information.

For its BioMat side panel, Airbus Operations mixes recycled carbon fibres from its A350 production with synthetic resins garnered from by-products of sugar cane processing. Meanwhile, the cabin outfitters at Austrian company F/List have submitted two bio-based materials into the race for a Crystal Cabin Award trophy.

The company says it is introducing both to the aircraft cabin for the first time: Linfinium, a linoleum covering made from natural components, and the plant-based “Whisper Leather”.

Not just in big planes: Cabin innovation for air taxis

In 2023, the Crystal Cabin Award team received more entries for electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft (eVTOLs) than ever before. EVE Mobility and Almadesign have entered this year’s race with a sleek, airy four-seater cabin concept for Eve Air Mobility, a daughter brand of aircraft manufacturer Embraer. Elements such as ceiling projection and pleasant colour moods are crafted to make the short flight experience as comfortable as possible.

HT-01, a cabin concept for air taxis by Hyundai Transys and its cooperation partner PriestmanGoode, also uses attractive colours and an optimized use of limited space. Building on the idea that the urban air shuttles of the future will be shared with other passengers, the South Korean company has included a variety of ideas to ensure sufficient privacy for all four seats.

The German “unicorn” Lilium has approached its cabin concept with a strong focus on exclusivity. The Pioneer Edition Lilium Jet features a light-flooded interior design with many customizable options, including a sky bar.

Broadening Horizons: Creative ideas with the power to surprise

This year, many entrants for the Crystal Cabin Award are thinking outside the box. AIR PREMIA and ZOSLEE STUDIO, for example, take this literally, proposing a more efficient stacking method for economy tableware and giving it a new, oval shape.

Privacy during important meetings above the clouds is the premise of Skyted‘s noise-cancelling mask; the Covid-19 pandemic has made mask-wearing so widely accepted on aircraft that fellow passengers won’t bat an eyelid. The innovative face covering was developed together with PriestmanGoode, Airbus Development, the European Space Agency Accelerator Program and ONERA.

Boarding processes at airports could change radically in the future, if the ideas submitted by Formation Design Group take off. Their autonomous boarding platform Dovetail rolls passengers directly to the aircraft and could significantly reduce turnaround times for boarding and de- boarding.

The partitions in the aircraft literally become transparent thanks to the transparent “The Smart View” displays by the Hamburg-based company AerQ (in cooperation with Boeing EnCore Interiors).

Breaking down barriers: More accessibility for all

Improving the flight experience in the long term means taking the needs of all stakeholders into account wherever possible. This year, several entrants made the Crystal Cabin Award shortlist with concepts for barrier-free travel.

Also noticeable here is a strong crop of ideas for Urban Air Mobility. This is exemplified by a concept from Supernal (in cooperation with Formation Design Group) that includes ideas for barrier-free use of air taxis, from gate to exit.

Every year, the Crystal Cabin Award is a unique opportunity for students to present their ideas to an international audience of experts and to make contact with the industry. Two American universities, the University of Michigan and the renowned Virginia Tech, have entered the fray with concepts for the safe travel of wheelchair users.

The Innovations of The Year: Live Awards Ceremony on 6 June 2023 in Hamburg

The Crystal Cabin Award, an initiative of the Hamburg Aviation cluster network, is awarded in eight categories: “Cabin Concepts”, “Cabin Systems”, “Health & Safety”, “IFEC & Digital Services”, “Material and Components”, “Passenger Comfort”, “Sustainable Cabin” and “University”.

For each category, the 28 experts will select three finalists to be announced in May 2023. Participating for the first time: Wahli Ong, VP Product Innovation at Singapore Airlines. With Mariya Stoyanova, Director Product Development at jetBlue, the Crystal Cabin Award Association welcomes another renowned US airline to its jury group.

The finalists will have the opportunity to present their concepts in person to the jury at the world’s leading trade fair for aircraft cabins, the Aircraft Interiors Expo (6-8 June 2023 in Hamburg). The winners of the Crystal Cabin Award 2023 will be announced on the evening of 6 June at a gala dinner at the Hamburg Chambers of Commerce.

This press release was created in partnership with Embargoed and Crystal Cabin Awards.

Register for AIX today to be at the Crystal Cabin Awards ceremony.

Women in Aviation: Brenna Wynhof, Boeing

17/03/202308/03/2023

In Women Behind Aviation, Women in Aviation.

Women in Aviation: Brenna Wynhof, Boeing

Aircraft Interior Expo’s Women in Aviation series shines a spotlight on industry thought-leaders and experts, with exclusive insights on both of the state of the market and navigating in the industry.

We sat down with Brenna Wynhof, Cabin, Features & Experiential Marketing at Boeing.

How long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I began working with Boeing as an intern in 2010 but joined full-time in 2011.”

How did you get into the industry?

“I am fortunate that Boeing was a company that recruited at my university. I was interested in learning more about the aviation industry as it doesn’t have the same presence in Ohio as it does in other parts of the United States.”

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

“Aviation is the most incredible industry. Whether someone is taking a trip to visit a loved one, travelling for work, taking a once-in-a-lifetime trip, or establishing “home” in a new country – our industry helps make all those things possible.

It is such a privilege to enable connection and it is so special to get to be part of something that is so meaningful and so much bigger than yourself.”

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

“Since I was young, I have always been labelled a “go-getter”. I have always loved a challenge. Entering into this industry, I knew that I might have to work harder to prove myself, but that didn’t bother me. I have had to work a bit harder than others, at times, but I have also been fortunate enough to have had female leaders in every organisation in which I’ve worked.

It is inspiring and encouraging to be led by strong women and I am grateful to work for a company that has enabled the advancement of women.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“As a mother to two young children, I can say that there have been hard moments in my career. The working world is adapting and changing to the way we live our lives today but there are still infrastructures and biases that exist, making things a bit more challenging.

“Barriers between industry players need to be dropped so that we can work collaboratively.”

Brenna Wynhof

But I also see change. Existing policies are being updated and new policies are being put in place to better support women in their career development. I’ve seen so much improvement just in the short decade that I’ve been working.”

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

“There is so much beauty and strategic benefit in having a diverse workforce. We all have distinct perspectives and different lived experiences. By broadening representation in the workforce, a holistic and higher-quality spectrum of ideas can be brought forth.

But just as important as diversity is equity and inclusion. A diverse workforce is only as good as their opportunities to make contributions. These three components – diversity, equity, and inclusion – are interdependent and critical to developing the best and strongest workforce.”

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

“I am very persistent. I am not one to give up or get deterred by challenges. I also self-advocate. I am not afraid to communicate what I need to and from others. But most importantly, I never try to achieve anything alone.

As an employee at an engineering company with a non-technical background, it became apparent very quickly that I would not get very far without learning from and working with others.

I am a firm believer that I am most successful and can bring the most value to Boeing when I am partnering and working with my colleagues. I am one person with one frame of reference. Different people bring different skills and knowledge bases and I think it’s incredibly important to utilise teams to move people, and organisations, forward.”

What characteristics do you believe are needed to survive in the aviation industry?

“The aviation industry is no-nonsense. It is global. It can be volatile. Because of all of this, I think it’s imperative that those who work in the aviation industry are excellent communicators and demonstrate resilience.

Communication skills are incredibly important, regardless of industry. However, in such a globally interdependent and critical industry like aviation, they are of paramount importance. Lives are entrusted to our industry every day – appropriate and meaningful information is key to keeping our industry on its feet.

I am an emotional person by nature, which means that I invest myself fully in every aspect of my work. This also means that I might, sometimes, become a bit too closely tied to the output.

Over the years, I have learned that constructive feedback is not an attack on my character; but that critiquing and iterating are important elements of successful business practices. These harder moments have also helped me to become a better business professional.”

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

“While not all women choose to become mothers, many do. Working mothers face an inordinate number of additional challenges placed on them due to their dual role as a working professional and mother.

“Communication skills are incredibly important, regardless of industry.”

Brenna Wynhof

Pregnancy discrimination, burnout due to societal expectations regarding family roles, as well as lack of childcare support, are all very real hurdles that women have to attempt to clear every day they go to work. Until these obstacles are tackled, head-on, there will always be struggles for women who desire a career and a family.”

What key change do you envision happening to the industry in the next 10 years?

“With the rapid, evolutionary changes in technology that we are seeing on the ground, I foresee a completely different landscape in aviation in 10 years. Once the industry has harnessed how to enable connectivity for the benefit of airline operations, I envision a seamless passenger journey, from ground to air, and more streamlined and efficient operations.”

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

“I have been given so many incredible opportunities throughout my time at Boeing, but I have to say that one of the biggest highlights was getting to represent the cabin part of our business on the cover of a magazine publication at Boeing called Innovation Quarterly (IQ).

“Since I was young, I have always been labelled a “go-getter”. I have always loved a challenge.”

Brenna Wynhof

The cabin is such an instrumental part of our aircraft and the brilliant minds that came before me have built an amazing design legacy. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work alongside and learn from many of them.

It was, honestly, a little intimidating but also such an honour to be affiliated with those extraordinary individuals as well as be recognised as part of the next generation of cabin leaders at Boeing.”

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

“This piece of advice has been given to me by multiple mentors throughout different phases of my life and in slightly different terms, but they all expressed the same sentiment. “Speak up for what you want and need, both professionally and personally”.

There is less grey area when you communicate your goals and ambitions. Don’t assume that opportunities will always fall into your lap. Waiting for someone to bestow advancement opportunities is not an effective way to grow in your career. Be your own advocate.”

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

“Come join us! This industry is so incredible and I hope more women feel inspired to help in the transformative work that we do each and every day. Don’t self-select yourself out because you are a woman. Don’t think that you aren’t “enough” because you don’t have a specific degree or enough time under your belt. Just come and join! I promise – you won’t regret it.”

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

“The aviation industry is a competitive one. That competition has helped build it to the thriving industry that it is today. However, we are entering into a time where our industry is facing new challenges (i.e., sustainability, accessibility, connectivity).

These areas of focus should not be solved individually or competitively. Barriers between industry players need to be dropped so that we can work collaboratively, across the industry and outside the industry, to develop solutions to these challenges.

“I am a firm believer that I am most successful and can bring the most value to Boeing when I am partnering and working with my colleagues.”

Brenna Wynhof

In my opinion, these sorts of initiatives – sustainability, connectivity, and accessibility – aren’t battles to be won. There should never be a question of “who is more sustainable? Who is more accessible? Who is more connected?” These are all focus areas that better society and should be tackled through collaboration.

If you could change one thing in the aviation industry, what would it be?

“I wish that our industry could make decisions a bit faster. It can be challenging to constantly face “on-the-ground” trends and expectations, knowing that you can’t come close to replicating them in-the-air anytime soon.

There is so much time, effort, and financial resources that go into making anything air-worthy, which means that we, as an industry, always feel painfully behind… especially when it comes to the cabin.”

Brenna is just one of the many women in aviation pioneering the latest innovations, technologies and products.

Growth drivers for cabin seating present new opportunities

15/03/202317/03/2023

In Trends.

Growth drivers for cabin seating present new opportunities

Periods of change in the aviation industry, such as the ongoing adoption of narrow-body jets post-pandemic, present refreshing challenges for aircraft seating designers and suppliers.

And opportunities to respond to sustainability, wellness onboard and passenger personalisation concerns mean that this is a time of potential growth and innovation in the aerospace seating sector.

The AIX team sat down with Aurélien Timbre, Sales Development at CELSO, whose product offerings include cushion assemblies and foam products, to discuss the cabin seating industry’s period of post-crisis rebound.

The state of the market

The aircraft cabin interiors seating market is, like the rest of the industry, coming out of changes dictated by the global pandemic.

But as such, the industry is seeing a shift towards more flexible and modular seating designs that can be easily reconfigured to meet changing needs. This includes seats that can be folded up to create more space for passengers, as well as seats that can be converted into beds for passengers travelling on long flights.

“Cabin fittings have good prospects for development and innovation.”

Aurélien Timbre, Sales Development – CELSO

And despite these challenges, the market is expected to recover in the coming years. The aircraft cabin interiors seating market is projected to grow from USD 6.2 billion in 2020 to USD 8.1 billion by 2025. This period should see a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period.

Within this sector:

The retrofit segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR
The economy class segment is expected to dominate the market with the need for cost-efficient solutions
The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth during the forecast period

Aurélien comments that, “the market is experiencing a strong post-crisis rebound which should gradually return to its pre-crisis level with very encouraging forecasts for the following years.

Indeed, through the demands of our customers (seat manufacturers) we are seeing a desire from airlines to improve the comfort and passenger experience within their aircraft while focusing on weight reduction and lower fuel consumption.”

And with such a positive outlook for the next few years, there are certain potentially lucrative areas that suppliers can react to.

Opportunities for seating suppliers

The rise of low-cost and budget carriers will be an area of opportunity for seating and seat upholstery suppliers. As mentioned, maintenance and retrofitting of existing aircraft as well as the growing demand for seats installed with IFEC systems will also continue to be market drivers going forwards.

“They want the seats to be lighter without necessarily having to spend much money.”

Oladi Olukolu, CEO – PT21 Solutions on industry trends

Other areas of opportunity include:

Innovation that caters to increasing focuses on passenger comfort, lightweighting and the use of sustainable aircraft seat materials
The incorporation of technology in airline seats
Flexible and modular seating designs

Across various passenger classes, this may look like:

Premium economy class: seat padding and headrest
Business class seats: convertible luxury plane seats with built-in entertainment systems and power outlets
First class seating: lie-flat beds, built-in entertainment systems, power outlets and other premium features
Ultra-long-haul: lie-flat beds with built-in entertainment systems, power outlets and other premium features such as a massage function

Aurélien notes that, “the growth of Premium Eco classes is also noticeable on medium/long haul aircraft, as is the move upmarket and the search for excellence and equipment in business and first classes.

For example, Celso has many foam solutions for these applications and works in collaboration with most seat manufacturers to bring its expertise in terms of comfort, technical answers and innovations to the table.”

And as airlines themselves face increased competition in the industry, seating suppliers that offer innovations that provide more comfort and luxury to passengers are set to be in poll position.

haeco seatbacks in aircraft cabin — Credit: HAECO

Changes in the aircraft cabin seating market

To this end, this increasing focus on passenger comfort has led to the development of more ergonomic seats with better support and more adjustable features in recent years.

As Aurélien sees it, “there have been many developments in the seating market. First of all, in economy class, where lightening, ergonomics and customisation are the main areas of development and innovation.”

Lighter and more durable composites are fast becoming the norm in seating manufacture when considering the weight of seats and the need to improve fuel efficiency.

“Lightweighting is still the biggest leverage you have in aerospace to be more sustainable.”

Hannes Schütte, Sales Manager, 9T Labs

And there is also an increasing demand for seats with more personalisation options, such as adjustable headrests, footrests, and lumbar supports, as well as built-in entertainment systems and charging ports for electronic devices.

Aurélien states, “in Business/1st class, the customer experience is constantly being improved and is the number one goal, while being compliant in terms of weight savings, innovative materials and greener.

It is at this level that Celso provides technical answers to the customer’s needs. Celso is constantly looking for new solutions in terms of comfort, weight saving, design to cost, acoustic innovation, custom-made design and innovative green materials.”

jamco Quest Premium Class Seat white background, reclined — Credit: Jamco

Additionally, there’s a growing trend towards economy seats with more legroom, and seats that can be converted into a bed for long-haul flights. Other newsworthy developments in the seating sector include:

Space vs. Comfort Onboard

Retrofitting and overhaul in the U.S may see changes as US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) suggests the prospect of a new rule that could require specific minimum sizes for seats on aircraft.

The FAA will, however, probably see robust pushback regarding seat size from budget carriers. The current average seat widths accommodate only 50 percent of the population of the US, according to a group called FlyersRights.org, which submitted lengthy comments to the FAA.

Celso

Timbe adds that “Celso is consulted by various seat manufacturers and aircraft manufacturers to propose the cabin interior design of the future. With our expertise and knowledge of raw materials we offer many products with comfort improvements, customisation of seats according to customers/airlines and technical requirements.

We work towards lightening of cushions, all while guaranteeing optimal comfort and acoustic solutions allowing passengers to have “isolation” and to reduce noise in order to be in a cocoon and thus, once again optimise travel comfort.”

HAECO and Silk Way West

HAECO ITM Limited signed an exclusive agreement with Silk Way West Airlines to support the technical management of the airline’s Boeing 747-8F inventory. The new deal will be in effect until 2029.

With the new deal, Silk Way West Airlines will have guaranteed service level and access to the Hong Kong component pool of HAECO ITM. AOG support: complete component repair, management, and engineering service; pool access services; and component logistics and transportation are all included in the scope work.

“The customer experience is constantly being improved and is the number one goal.”

Aurélien Timbre, Sales Development – CELSO

Air New Zealand’s ZIM

Air New Zealand’s ground-breaking new cabin concept, ZIM Aircraft seating, is providing premium eco seats. The airline hopes that the revamped Dreamliner seating of its Boeing 787-9 fleet will provide long-haul passengers with the finest possible experience, starting in 2024.

“Aviation industry stakeholders are adapting to meet the ever-changing demands and needs within the commercial aviation sector.”

Clyde Buntrock, CEO – AJW Aviation

RECARO and IndiGo

The brand-new A320neo and airbus A321neo aircraft operated by IndiGo will be outfitted with RECARO Aircraft Seating CL3710. The low cost carrier will introduce the most popular economy class seat to the Indian subcontinent first.

75 Airbus aircraft will have BL3710 economy class seats installed starting in January 2023.

Hutchinson and Singapore Component Solutions

In order to provide operators in the Asia Pacific region with a competitive and high-quality component repair offering, Hutchinson finalised its long-term agreement with Singapore Component Solutions, a joint venture between Sabena Technologies and AFI KLM E&M dedicated to component support.

The operators can take advantage of a wide range of capabilities, including cabin interior, composite, and structural repairs; engine and APU vibration isolation systems; and engine component repairs.

The cabin seating of the future

The aircraft cabin interiors seating market is highly competitive and features a number of key players. Some of the major companies that are expected to play a significant role in the market in the coming years.

Forecasted key aerospace seat manufacturers include:

Zodiac Aerospace: The French company joined leading supplier of aircraft cabin interiors, Safran, specialising in seats and other cabin equipment.
Recaro Aircraft Seating: The German company specialises in the design and manufacture of ergonomic and lightweight aircraft seats.
B/E Aerospace: The American company supplies a wide range of cabin interior products, including seats.

The aircraft cabin interiors seating market is projected to grow from USD 6.2 billion in 2020 to USD 8.1 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period.

(Source: Markets and Markets)

Thompson Aero Seating: The UK-based company designs and manufactures aircraft seats for both commercial and business aviation.
HAECO: The Hong Kong-based company provides a wide range of aircraft cabin interiors and maintenance services.
Collins Aerospace: A subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation, Collins Aerospace is a leading supplier of aircraft cabin interiors, including seats, lighting, and other cabin equipment.
Safran Seats: The French company designs, manufactures and supports a wide range of aircraft seats for commercial, regional and business aircrafts.
JAMCO: The Japanese company designs and manufactures a wide range of aircraft cabin interiors, including seats.

These companies, known for their cutting-edge technology, innovative designs, and high-quality products, will continue to play a significant role in the aircraft cabin interiors seating market. Although, there are still some speed bumps the market may face in the coming years.

As Aurélien says, “cabin fittings have good prospects for development and innovation. The market is driven by both end customers (airlines) and the entire supply chain, which constantly looks for and develops efficient solutions to improve quality and comfort, while optimising prices.”

Potential challenges

As always, the industry, and aircraft seating manufacturers especially, will have to bear the following in mind:

Airlines are under pressure to keep costs low
Safety and regulatory requirements
Environmental concerns
Meeting passenger expectations
Weight and space constraints
Staying abreast of technological advancements

recaro seating banner planes, seats and people — Credit: Recaro

But as the industry continues to advance and innovate, seating will continue to be a core component in enhancing the passenger experience in the cabin.

Advancements in in-seat technologies like noise-cancellation, mood lighting, temperature control and even air purification can all have significant impact on passenger enjoyment and wellness onboard.

Steps towards personalisation with options such as adjustable headrests, footrests, and lumbar supports, can be deployed as part of ongoing efforts to to meet the diverse needs of passengers.

And the development of manufacturers experimenting with hybrid and electric airplane seats which will require less energy may offer part of the answer to the sustainability question.

Overall, the future of aircraft seating design will focus on increasing passenger comfort, reducing environmental impact, and incorporating new technologies to enhance the passenger experience. And there is no better place to experience the cabin concepts of the future than at Aircraft Interiors Expo.

Exhibitor Interview: ThinKom

13/03/202328/02/2023

In Interviews, Products.

ThinKom is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative IFC antenna systems. Based on patented VICTS technology, its aero phased arrays are interoperable among LEO, MEO, GEO and HEO satellite constellations.

With >1,500 aircraft installations and >27 million flight hours to date, ThinKom’s antenna systems are thoroughly proven and are the lowest profile, commercially available phased arrays in the world. They uniquely enable near-term deployment of global, high-speed, inflight connectivity for all aviation sectors.

AIX sat down with Chairman and CTO, Bill Milroy to discuss how ThinKom are helping airlines to provided personalised experiences and generate ancillary revenue onboard with their full range of antenna solutions for commercial aviation.

About Bill Milroy

“My name is William (Bill) Milroy and I’m Chairman and Chief Technology Officer at ThinKom Solutions. My co-founder(s) and I started ThinKom Solutions in 2000 with the goal of developing a new breed of antenna access solutions for the broadband wireless communication market.

Before that, I spent most of my professional career working on RF antenna design and development, producing a number of antenna array implementations for radar and communication applications in both the commercial and military marketplaces.

“[AIX is] also a wonderful place to find partners that can help progress your research and development.”

Bill Milroy, Chairman and CTO – ThinKom

These efforts have included the creation of innovative EM modelling and RF design improvements, including the invention of the Variable Inclination Continuous Transverse Stub (VICTS) Array and its variants.”

Can you introduce your company and your products to us?

“Today, ThinKom is a leading provider of innovative, ultra-low-profile broadband antenna solutions for commercial and business aviation applications, delivering fast, resilient, and reliable connectivity “from every orbit to every seat”.

The ThinAir® product line (based on the Variable Inclination Continuous Transverse Stub technology that we created) delivers compact, affordable Ku- and Ka-band options suitable for installation on planes ranging from business jets to super-jumbos.

ThinAir antennas consume less power while delivering high spectral efficiency, reducing recurring satellite costs. Packaged in a low-drag design to save fuel and reduce emissions, ThinAir’s proven, proprietary, patented solutions are trusted by leading inflight connectivity providers and airline customers around the globe.

Products for commercial aviation include:

For regional fleets and smaller aircraft: the ThinAir Ka1717 integrates years of fielded technology in an ARINC 792 package for a compact, resilient and highly efficient connectivity system.

For high beam agility and all-orbit operation (Ku-Band): the ThinAir Ku3030 antenna delivers exceptional network flexibility and consistently high performance for global inflight broadband as a proven solution with more than 33 million operational hours across commercial aircraft.

For high beam agility and all-orbit operation (Ka-Band): the ThinAir Ka2517 antenna delivers long-term reliability with patented design and minimal active components, plus ultra-low profile, reducing drag and associated fuel costs.”

What will you be showcasing at AIX 2023?

“At AIX 2023 we will be showcasing our full range of antenna solutions for commercial aviation. We will also be talking about a new technology partnership that we believe will help dramatically improve performance, delivering on our mission to enable connectivity from every orbit to every seat.”

What innovations or trends are you anticipating in the aviation and interiors industry this year?

“At AIX this year I believe IFC (as usual) will be a strong topic of discussion. Much of the debate will centre around the benefits that Low Earth Orbit connectivity has to bring to the inflight environment. Multi-orbit and multi-band solutions are likely to emerge as hot topics, as the industry looks for innovative ways to harness the benefits of both LEO and MEO satellite networks for faster speeds and reliable global coverage to airlines.”

Bill Milroy, Chairman and CTO – ThinKom Solutions, Inc.

What are looking forward to seeing/experiencing again at AIX and why?

“We love the show floor energy at AIX, but equally our team enjoys the opportunity to catch up with clients and colleagues over dinner at the end of the day.”

Why are you coming back to AIX? Can you share any notable experiences or customers that you’ve gained during the show?

“Last year at the show we announced plans to bring to market a new fully-integrated phased-array Ka-band satellite antenna solution to meet the increasing demand for high-speed in-flight connectivity on regional jet fleets, together with our partner Carlisle Interconnect Technologies.

The ThinAir® Ka1717 uses the proven VICTS (Variable Inclination Continuous Transverse Stub) technology that is currently in use on thousands of narrow- and wide-body aircraft.

The complete antenna subsystem, including the antennas, solid-state power block (SSPB) amplifier, adapter plate, fairing, and radome, is six inches high and weighs under 160 pounds (73 kgs).

Before this development, it was impractical for regional jet operators to offer their passengers the same level of in-flight connectivity experience as larger passenger jets, mostly because of the size, weight and drag of existing aero antenna systems.”

Would you recommend AIX to other companies? Please share why.

“I’d recommend AIX as the top show of the year for any group seriously looking to grow its footprint as a supplier to the commercial aviation world. It’s also a wonderful place to find partners that can help progress your research and development.”

Exhibitor Interview: OneWeb

09/03/202309/03/2023

In Interviews.

OneWeb‘s mission is to enable Internet access for everyone, everywhere. The company is building a communications network with a constellation of Low Earth Orbit satellites that will provide connectivity to people around the world. OneWeb is creating business solutions for Broadband, Government and Cellular Backhaul.

AIX sat down with Director of Mobility Marketing to discuss how OneWeb are helping to leverage connectivity to enable both a truly connected fleet strategy and new levels of passenger experience personalisation and sophistication.

Can you introduce yourself, your company, and your products to us?

“My name is Nick Maynard, Director of Mobility Marketing at OneWeb. OneWeb is a global communications network powered from space. Headquartered in London, we’re enabling connectivity for governments, businesses, transport and communities.

We are in the final stages of deploying a constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites with a network of global gateway stations and a range of user terminals to connect the unconnected and provide an affordable, fast, high-speed and low-latency communications service to everyone, everywhere.

“I’m looking forward to the excitement and buzz of the show floor.”

Nick Maynard, OneWeb

In the aero sector, OneWeb is developing advanced electronically steered array (ESA) antenna hardware with leading firms Stellar Blu and Ball Aerospace. Distribution partners in commercial aviation include Panasonic Avionics and Intelsat. In business aviation, aircraft operators can work with Satcom Direct or Gogo to access the benefits of OneWeb connectivity.”

What will you be showcasing at AIX 2023?

“At AIX 2023, OneWeb will be showcasing how our network’s global coverage and performance will drive the inflight experience to new levels of personalisation and sophistication. The service will facilitate the use of cloud applications and more seamless browsing and streaming, for a richer overall inflight connectivity experience limited only by the user’s imagination – not the available bandwidth.

We’ll also be speaking to airlines about how OneWeb connectivity can enable truly connected fleet strategy, and all the operational efficiencies that this can deliver. Our unique ‘for the industry, by the industry’ approach to the marketplace will certainly set us apart from the competitors.

This strategic direction, a key differentiator for OneWeb, will result in the creation of a true connectivity ecosystem. By leveraging multi-orbit technologies, the needs of all aviation stakeholders can finally be addressed.

OneWeb’s OEM partnerships are paving the way for both line fit and retrofit programmes, while a roster of trusted and established distribution partners can offer aviation customers choice, in addition to more robust and global technical support networks. Finally, the ability to integrate with existing GEO constellations will provide operators with flexibility and peace of mind as the new LEO capabilities of the OneWeb network are deployed and proven.”

What innovations or trends are you anticipating in the aviation and interiors industry this year?

“We will continue to see growing demand for bandwidth, and a desire for fast and consistent inflight internet for all aircraft types and global regions. In terms of innovation, we are likely to hear more about advances in electronically steered array (ESA) antenna technology as several suppliers make strong progress toward commercial readiness.

“At AIX 2023, OneWeb will be showcasing how our network’s global coverage and performance will drive the inflight experience to new levels.”

Nick Maynard, OneWeb

This flexible new antenna technology will revolutionise the connectivity market, facilitating a consistent experience across multiplatform fleets for the first time – a network wide experience that is global, consistent and sustainable.”

Nick Maynard, Director of Mobility Marketing – OneWeb

What are you looking forward to seeing again at AIX and why?

“I’m looking forward to the excitement and buzz of the show floor, as well as the interesting discussions (and healthy debates) that we’ve come to expect from the Passenger Experience Conference.”

Why are you coming back to AIX? Can you share any notable experiences or customers that you’ve gained during the show?

“Last year, we used AIX as a launch platform. We announced the findings of our Connect Passenger Report, a substantial research effort designed to aid the airline industry’s understanding of what passengers want from their in-flight connectivity experience. OneWeb commissioned TAG Research Ltd to explore how airline passengers feel about travel and connectivity in a post-pandemic world.

This was a successful campaign and OneWeb was proud to share the results of our survey for the first time at AIX. At AIX in 2023, we will be celebrating the completion of our constellation of over 600 Low Earth Orbit satellites – the first truly global broadband LEO constellation.

We will be supporting our key distribution partners and further engaging with airlines and other partners as we welcome the dawn of a new era in inflight connectivity.”

Why is exhibiting/attending AIX important for you and your company?

“AIX is always filled with great meetings and new opportunities from beginning to end. It is the pre-eminent annual event for the aircraft interiors sector with an ever-growing IFEC zone.”

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) marks International Women’s Day with the next chapter of its Women in Aviation campaign

08/03/202328/02/2024

Download the Women in Aviation Report

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) marks International Women’s Day with the next chapter of its Women in Aviation campaign

The world’s leading marketplace for cabin interiors celebrates influential women and their impact on the industry to mark International Women’s Day

8^th MARCH: This International Women’s Day, Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX), the world’s leading marketplace for airlines and the global supply chain to meet, has announced the next chapter in its Women in Aviation campaign, celebrating influential women and their impact on the industry.

Comprised of 10 female leaders from the globe’s biggest airlines and suppliers, the campaign explores their experiences, successes, and insights into the aviation industry through a female diversity lens.

Some of the industry’s leading female professionals have taken part, including Vivian Lo, GM Customer Experience and Design, Cathay Pacific; Jo Rowan, Associate Director, PriestmanGoode; Elina Kopola, Founder, Green Cabin Alliance; Shawn Duffy, Senior Vice President, Viasat, and more.

The campaign also revisits participants from the original 2019 campaign, highlighting the notable changes and progress made over the past five years.

The report, now available online, can be downloaded for free here:

In the report, the selected participants share the journeys of their careers, imparting their invaluable advice and anecdotes to others working or seeking to work in aviation.

Vivian Lo from Cathay Pacific emphasises the importance of uniqueness and staying true to one’s self, commenting:

“As you work more and more, you realise that standing out has its cons, but also pros. Being the minority allows [you] to be more outspoken and respected for what [you] say.”

Echoing Lo’s advice is Kathryn Doyle, Associate Director at Collins Aerospace. She states:

“Confidence, authenticity, and an openness to learn and a genuine passion for the industry tend to help you shine through. I’ve never tried to be anything other than myself, and I strongly believe that being genuine is critical to developing positive relationships and establishing you as a leader.”

The report also delves into current industry trends, touching on diversity and being female in a male-dominated industry. Jo Rowan at PriestmanGoode believes gender does not determine success, but instead it is achieved by pushing boundaries and breaking the mold.

She said:

“Women may see things differently, they may approach challenges differently, but it isn’t about being male or female. It is about having the right skills for the project and matching skillsets to the task needed.”

Speaking about the Women in Aviation report, Polly Magraw, Event Director, Aircraft Interiors Expo, said:

“Once again, we are incredibly proud of the Women in Aviation campaign this year. Being able to pull together the diverse and fascinating insights from the leading women driving the industry – imparting their knowledge onto others – is a huge privilege. It’s promising to see that not only is the industry making positive progress, but that gender needn’t determine one’s success.

“AIX is the home of conversations that influence the industry of tomorrow, and by highlighting the achievements and challenges of these women, we can carve out a clear path to even greater diversity in the industry and encourage more influential, ambitious women to help drive it forward.”

Download the Women in Aviation Report

Why is inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) so important?

07/03/202306/03/2023

In Blog, Expo News, Trends.

Why is inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) so important?

Inflight entertainment – or IFE – has been at the heart of the passenger experience since the beginning of air travel, but we have come a long way from the days of silent movies shown on a few flights back in the 1920s.

Today, whether delivered on seat-back screens or travellers’ own devices, IFE is an essential element of the passenger experience across all long-haul cabins and is increasingly part of airline offers on shorter flights too. Furthermore, inflight connectivity or IFC is part of the evolving airline business model for both travellers and airline operations.

“At first there were only in-seat solutions that were affordable for the bigger, wealthier airlines.”

Job Heimerikx, CEO and founder – AirFi

Passengers expect on-the-ground connected experiences up in the air

From a passenger perspective, customers expect to be able to do everything they can do at home or in the office while sitting on a plane. For them, IFEC, be it screening movies and TV shows, watching live sports or listening to podcasts and music, along with the ability to catch up on emails and use the internet (plus a comfy seat and access to refreshments) are at the heart of what’s expected on a flight.

“10 years ago, air-to-ground (ATG) was the primary, if not the sole, way of getting two-way internet access on planes.”

Bill Milroy, Chairman and CTO -ThinKom Solutions, Inc.

Since travellers may be onboard for several hours, they represent willing consumers, which opens the door to new opportunities to monetise the passenger experience for the airline, offering the potential to disrupt the air travel business model.

IFEC aircraft supporting more efficient inflight services

The global pandemic accelerated digitalisation and reliance on remote connectivity across many aspects of daily life which, unsurprisingly, is also being rolled out to the airline cabin. Onboard WiFi is supporting airline efforts to deliver more efficient onboard service operations, with an increasing number of carriers offering their passengers the ability to select meals, refreshments, gifts or duty-free using the seat-back screen, or the airline app on their own device.

“As expectations rise the impact of not meeting those expectations is going to become larger.”

Bill Milroy, Chairman and CTO -ThinKom Solutions, Inc.

However, inflight connectivity is just getting started. Airbus expects that by 2027 almost 30,000 aircraft will be equipped with connectivity, heralding even greater operational efficiencies as digital ecosystems aggregate cabin data from smart in-cabin technologies such as overhead bins, galleys and seats.

The accelerated evolution of inflight entertainment

Across the 1960s to the 1990s, IFE evolved from 16mm film projection to Super 8mm to video tape, from aisle screens to personal seat-back video screens, according to Michael Childers, Chief Consultant, Content and Media Strategy, Lufthansa Systems.

He notes that by the end of the ’90s the IFE experience had migrated from analog to digital, from linear delivery to on-demand. And by 2010, seat-centric IFE system architecture enabled the storage of content and playback on SD cards embedded in seat-back displays.

A female hand touches a seat back screen onboard a plane

…and then came connectivity

Childers’ blog posts on the history of IFE and IFEC also detail the increasing sophistication of IFEC systems over the past 20 years, as suppliers improved reliability and reduced weight, alongside the emergence of wireless content delivery to passengers’ mobiles, tablets and laptops.

It’s likely that even more paradigm shifts in IFEC can be expected across the next 20 years, further simulating an on-the-ground experience in the air.

“Connectivity therefore, is absolutely needed to further boost or to support cabin services really generate profit.”

Job Heimerikx, CEO and founder – AirFi

In November 2022, the European Commission updated its implementation decision on mobile communications onboard aircraft, paving the way for widespread deployment of 5G services on aircraft, which subsequent media reports suggested could signal the end of mobile phones being switched to “airplane mode” during flight.

Upcoming trends shaping the future of IFEC

In the near-to medium-term, three key trends are set to impact the IFEC sector, according to David Whelan, Senior Research Analyst at Valour Consultancy. He highlights the emergence of new low earth orbit (LEO) satellite operators, market consolidation and how ancillary revenue generation and digital services are changing the proposition for IFC.

“In my opinion, we should very much aim for technology that really contributes, not only to passenger experience, but that really reduces weight.”

Job Heimerikx, CEO and founder – AirFi

It is his contention that while LEO operators such as OneWeb, SpaceX, Telesat and Amazon are often talked about as the same proposition, they are distinct from each other in many ways. SpaceX, for example, is moving forward with a very different business model – portal-less IFE – to other vendors.

“The question is whether the business model works, and they can hold on to passengers’ attention in the cabin.”

David Whelan, Senior Research Analyst, Valour Consultancy Valour Consultancy

The pandemic as well as the imminent arrival of more LEO networks has accelerated market consolidation. Whelan predicts that partnerships between GEO (geostationary satellite) and LEO operators will become more common as airlines shift to multi-orbit services. “Finding the right partner now could have big implications for the next five years,” he says.

With IFE hardware increasingly commoditised and the focus moving to software, Whelan notes that a number of IFE vendors, particularly wireless IFE (W-IFE), are shifting into the digital services space.

“New services and revenue-generating opportunities help to make the business model for IFC make much more sense for airlines. In the next couple of years, we will see more and more low-cost carriers taking a look at IFEC offerings.”

David Whelan, Senior Research Analyst, Valour Consultancy

Another disruptor, according to William Huot-Marchand, SVP Inflight Connectivity Business Line at Inmarsat, will be the convergence of technologies that will, ultimately, deliver a connected cabin. Inmarsat is playing its part to enable the connected cabin with its OneFi platform.

“We’re set to see more airlines embrace the benefits of a connected cabin, largely thanks to the huge impact it has on their passengers’ onboard experience.”
William Huot-Marchand, SVP Inflight Connectivity Business Line at Inmarsat

“When all systems (or technologies) are integrated, the experience can be orchestrated – from interacting with cabin crew, to IFE, to IFC, to mobile applications – it’s more intuitive and simpler for passengers to have the experience that suits their needs,” Huot-Marchand says, adding: “This is a big part of the wider trend towards more personalised passenger experience.”

Learn more about the AIX IFEC Zone

To discover more about the technologies and services that will deliver new connected experiences onboard in the coming years, visit the AIX IFEC Zone in Halls B2-B4 at the Hamburg Messe.

IFE, IFC & IFEC – key terminology at a glance

ATG – an air to ground communications path from the aircraft to ground stations, transmitting media or internet information.
AVOD – audio/video on demand aka an IFES that gives the passenger control over programme selection and display.
IFC – inflight connectivity, which provides the ability for passengers and/or crew to use a wireless system onboard the aircraft to connect to the internet, either via satellite or an ATG system.
IFE – inflight entertainment.
IFES – inflight entertainment system, in other words the onboard hardware/software supporting IFE content.
Live TV – content originating outside the aircraft and transmitted in real-time principally via satellite.
Wired systems – content delivered via cables running from a central storage device (e.g. a computer server) on the aircraft to boxes in walls or under passenger seats, which are in turn connected to individual screens.
Wireless systems – content delivered over a WiFi network. A central computer server on the aircraft send signals to wireless access points (WAP) positioned throughout the aircraft, with each WAP serving about 50 seats.

Source: US Department of Transport

This article was produced in paid partnership with Gillian Jenner.

More about AIX’s IFEC Zone

Exhibitor Interviews: AirFi

01/03/202301/03/2023

In Blog, Interviews.

AirFi is a global leader in portable IFE and inflight retail technology for airlines. They offer a full suite of flexible and low capex solutions that enable streaming IFE, enhanced crew efficiency, third-party commercial integrations and a healthier bottom line overall.

AIX sat down with founder and CEO, Job Heimerikx to discuss how AirFi is aiming to enable “A Mall in the Sky” for airlines and their passengers.

About Job Heimerikx

Job is co-Founder and CEO at AirFi, working from company headquarters in The Hague, Netherlands. He holds an MBA from INSEAD Business School.

Before starting AirFi, Job was a serial entrepreneur and innovating leader in various industries including return logistics and pharmacy automation.

In 2011, Job and the first members of the AirFi team brought a new mobile point-of-sale solution (mPOS) to the airline sector and have been raising the bar for inflight retail best practice ever since. The creation of AirFi’s first generation portable inflight entertainment (IFE) solution (known as the Moon Box) in 2014, changed the IFE landscape by making it an affordable option for smaller airlines and the low-cost carrier market.

Job and the AirFi team have literally shaped the market for portable inflight streaming solutions and they continue to innovate and expand, creating new products and services in the space of IFE, inflight retail, crew functionality and Low-Earth-Orbit connectivity solutions for aviation.

“I’d recommend that companies attend AIX. It’s guaranteed that you’ll leave with enough new opportunities to keep you busy in follow ups for weeks or even months afterward.”

Job Heimerikx, CEO & Founder, AirFi

About AirFi

“AirFi is a leading provider of digital cabin solutions for airlines that want to deliver wireless onboard entertainment and attractive inflight shopping experiences to passengers. Our solutions do this all while enabling wireless communications, enhancing crew efficiency and streamlining workflows and backend processes.

AirFi solutions are designed to make a positive business case to customers from day one. Our systems require no aircraft downtime and no STC deploy, which means we can roll out custom programs in very little time, with little or no up-front investment from the airline.”

AirFi provides three core solutions

A flexible, fully integrated and retail-centric alternative to costly embedded inflight entertainment
Mobile point of sale (mPOS) and Connected Crew solutions
LEO: a revolutionary, low-cost, low bandwidth connectivity solution that provides immediate operational benefits (like crew messaging and ACARS over IP), passenger messaging, and live payment validation to reduce the risk of revenue loss due to failed payments

“The backbone of the AirFi solution is the AirFi Box. More than a server, more than a router, the light and compact AirFi Box is placed in the stowage bins of any aircraft to create a powerful Wi-Fi streaming network onboard that passengers connect to using their own devices.

AirFi works from an API-driven, cloud-based architecture that makes partner integration and content updates easy. All of AirFi’s solutions are supported by AirFi’s proprietary data analytics platform and dashboard, granting insight into system performance and customer behaviour.”

“If you’re not at AIX, everybody thinks you’re dead!“

Job Heimerikx, CEO & Founder, AirFi

What will you be showcasing at AIX 2023?

“Our core focus at AIX 2023 will be promoting our Mall in the Sky proposition and our LEO connectivity solution (developed with partners Iridium and Skytrac) which will, by June, be installed and flying with airline partners.

Mall in the Sky creates an enhanced inflight experience for passengers (which contributes heavily toward higher Customer Satisfaction and NPS ratings) and a boost in inflight sales revenues for the airline.”

“Third party partnerships are becoming more commonplace in the airline commercial ecosystem and the Mall in the Sky enables easier third-party integration thanks to our open platform. By working with their preferred partners (or by choosing some from our partner portfolio), airlines can offer a richer inflight shopping and entertainment experience.

They can provide services that truly add value, such as local business offers, ground transportation through the likes of an Uber, live hotel bookings, or even goods for worldwide delivery.

On a more sophisticated level, our Internet of things (IoT) stacks and platform capabilities enable airlines to capture the data created during a flight – via passengers’ choices, browsing habits and transactional behaviour, for example – to be used to further optimise the experience and even make merchandising decisions.

From an environmental perspective, the digitalisation of retail and entertainment services moves airlines towards a paperless cabin, resulting in more intuitive and efficient crew operations as well as lighter aircraft that cause lower fuel burn.

AirFi’s LEO antenna adds less than 0.5kg of weight

AirFi’s LEO connectivity solution provides lightweight inflight connectivity (IFC) with the simple, overnight addition of AirFi’s patented window-mounted antenna technology. LEO adds less than 0.5kg of weight to the airframe of a single-aisle aircraft, and it affords the option of an inexpensive but high value connectivity upgrade for those airlines not able or willing to commit to a full-scale inflight connectivity solution.

“I’m looking forward to meeting new airlines, seeing existing customers and catching up with friends in the industry.”

Job Heimerikx, CEO & Founder, AirFi

What innovations or trends are you anticipating in the aviation and interiors industry this year?

Trends in connectivity: light and overnight

“For years, the commercial aviation industry has been chasing the dream of an “on the ground” Wi-Fi experience at 30,000 feet. And, to the credit of the many great minds and determined teams (not to mention massive investment from stakeholders at every turn), we have largely achieved this.

Soon, passengers will be able to stream high-resolution video, upload large files to the cloud and even compete with ground-based opponents on complex online games (without losing immediately due to latency!).

A young boy imagines reading minds and receiving communications from outer space with a homemade science project on his head. He is dressed in casual clothing, glasses and bow tie. He is wearing headphones in front of a beige background with a smile happily waiting. Retro styling. — Credit: AirFi

But for 90% of airlines, the real business case for connectivity can be found in simple operational functions like payment-validation, ACARS over IP, and crew communication. Not only this, but there are many indicators that show passengers are still far more concerned with things like low ticket prices and legroom than they are with streaming Netflix or other bandwidth heavy IFC applications onboard.

Many are very pleased (if not thrilled) if they can simply send a quick WhatsApp message to loved ones on the ground for no cost.

Low-bandwidth IFC solutions that are inexpensive for the airline, easy to install, and which pay for themselves in operational benefits are not just a trend. This is a practical and necessary innovation that our industry is more than ready to embrace.”

What are looking forward to seeing/experiencing again at AIX and why?

“I’m looking forward to meeting new airlines, seeing existing customers and catching up with friends in the industry. I’m even excited to see my competitors, because competition is what drives us all to innovate and do better.

This year, I’m especially looking forward to the Crystal Cabin Awards and the Onboard Hospitality Awards that will be taking place, as we hope to have a fast horse in both races!”

“Our solutions enable wireless communications, enhancing crew efficiency and streamlining workflows and backend processes.”

Job Heimerikx, CEO & Founder, AirFi

Why is exhibiting at AIX important for you and your company?

“If you’re not at AIX, everybody thinks you’re dead! Jokes aside, it’s the annual event with most airlines. Airlines send executives with power over internal decision making and they generally are there with the intent to do business, not just window shopping.”

Would you recommend AIX to other companies?

“I’d recommend that companies attend AIX. It’s guaranteed that you’ll leave with enough new opportunities to keep you busy in follow ups for weeks or even months afterward. As well, you come away from the event feeling motivated and inspired.”

Registration Is Now Open for AIX 2023

01/03/202301/03/2023

In Expo News.

Visitor registration is now open for this year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) and co-located World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE), which will take place from 6-8 June 2023, at Hamburg Messe, Germany. Register today and join the global cabin interiors and onboard services community.

Creating the cabins of the future, together

Aviation and rail professionals from across the globe will be able to view the latest products and services from the cabin interiors and onboard services supply chain. Across the three-day show, attendees can touch and test the latest products and services from across:

Seating
In-flight Entertainment and Connectivity
Aircraft Manufacturer
Big Data and Analytics
Cabin Management Systems
Fasteners
Lavatory & Waste Equipment
Galleys & Galley Equipment
Lighting / LEDs
BizJet Refurbishment and Interior Design

and much more.

600+ Suppliers, 1,000+ Products

Representatives from key airlines will be joined by leading suppliers including Acro Aircraft Seating, Thales, AJW Technique Interiors, Telesat, ViaSat, Thompson Aero Seating, STELIA Aerospace, Panasonic and KID-Systeme GmbH.

They will be joined by a number of first-time exhibitors including 9T Labs, Lamberts London, SkyFive, Pariani Srl, Hughes and many more.

AIX Connect

With the return of AIX Connect, attendees can pre-schedule meetings with new or existing business connections, receive personalised matchmaking recommendations, discover new contacts, and arrive at the show with an organised schedule.

IFEC Zone

AIX’s IFEC Zone will return to halls B2-B4 to bring all the hardware, software, digital tools, connectivity solutions and content services together that will help airlines to deliver highly desirable consumer opportunities to their passengers.

Passenger Experience Conference

The Passenger Experience Conference (PEC), taking place the day before AIX will return, hosted at CCH – Congress Center Hamburg to offer a programme of conference sessions covering sustainability, passenger experience, revitalised transport modalities and repurposing onboard materials and their effects on the industry.

CabinSpace Live

CabinSpace Live Seminar provides a dedicated theatre at Aircraft Interiors Expo to discuss the cabin of tomorrow and beyond. Gain insights from industry thought leaders and fellow peers as they share experiences and case studies to help you source solutions and elevate your business strategies.

Informational sessions will cover IFEC, cabin interiors, business jets, sustainability, accessibility, and more across the three days of the event and are free to attend.

VIP Programme

If you are an employee of an airline, leasing company or BizJet operator, now you can unlock the benefits of being an AIX VIP, including:

VIP AIX Connect Access for upgraded access to so you can network and arrange meetings with exhibitors and other VIP industry peers before the event.
VIP Lounge Access with a place to relax, work or network away from the show floor. Lunch, snacks and refreshments are available throughout the event.
Dedicated VIP Entrance to skip the queue and access the Airline Club Lounge from 8 am on show opening days.
VIP Digital Gift Bag with exclusive deals, giveaways and promo items.
Discounted Rate for PEC to gain valuable insights into the industry and help shape the future of passenger experience.

Register today for AIX

To register for your pass to attend AIX, click the button below.

IFEC Zone returns to Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) against backdrop of remarkable industry growth

16/02/202316/02/2023

[3] https://www.axinom.com/article/inflight-entertainment-byod

IFEC Zone returns to Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) against backdrop of remarkable industry growth

In the past, any conversation around in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) was limited to the films on flights or how business passengers could check their emails.

Fast forward to 2023, and IFEC capabilities are continually expanding. In fact, the global in-flight entertainment and connectivity market is anticipated to reach USD 11.79 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 8.4% from 2023 to 2030[1].

IFEC has emerged as a necessity for airlines, making the IFEC Zone an unmissable feature at this year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX). It will highlight how the proliferation of Wi-Fi, alongside the increasing reliance on smartphones and an ever-increasing desire to be connected, has meant that the IFEC offering onboard has become a central component of the passenger experience.

With more than 50 exhibiting companies, there will be no better place for attendees to maximise the exciting growth and revenue opportunity that IFEC presents. Spanning halls B2-B4, the IFEC Zone provides a concentrated area of innovation, where attendees can gain a comprehensive overview of the market, with the ability to touch and test market-leading solutions.

With products spanning wireless connectivity hardware and software, bring-your-own-device (BYOD), seatback systems, 5G, streaming platforms, content service and more, attendees can join key pacesetters of this exciting sector, including Astronics Corporation, ViaSat, Thales, Panasonic Avionics Corporation, and Inmarsat Global Ltd.

Consumers desire connectivity, and airlines are obliging

A recent survey by Inmarsat found that 82% of passengers globally said they would rebook with an airline that offered high-quality Wi-Fi, with 92% of business travellers and 90% of parents with children under 18 in agreeance.

To meet this demand, airlines are offering a more frictionless connectivity experience, in part thanks to the increasing sophistication of connectivity solutions on board. At AIX 2023, Inmarsat, a world leader in satellite connectivity, will demonstrate how satellite-based connectivity is an essential catalyst for the aviation industry’s sustainable recovery through its global high-speed networks, including European Aviation Network (EAN), SB-S and GX Aviation, the high-speed Wi-Fi solution recently chosen by Emirates for its new A350 fleet[2].

Also exhibiting in the IFEC Zone will be Panasonic Avionics Corporation who will demonstrate why its Wi-Fi connectivity has been installed on over 3,400 aircraft and whose systems power approximately 70% of the global IFE-equipped fleet. As long connectivity aviation pioneers, the company recently entered into a distribution agreement with OneWeb to offer and support its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) network for commercial aviation, adding to its geostationary orbit capabilities, enabling unprecedented levels of connectivity across the globe.

Meanwhile, demonstrating that connectivity doesn’t have to involve Wi-Fi is aeroLiFi, who will exhibit its high bandwidth wireless communication solutions based on LiFi technology, which uses only light to transmit data, and offers high data rates, maximum security, and robustness – an intriguing option for airlines requiring IFE content distribution.

BYOD – the new era of in-flight content consumption

Customers’ digital dependency and reliance on smartphones has meant that airlines are embracing bring-your-own-devices (BYOD) systems, enabling passengers to enjoy the variety of in-flight entertainment options the same way they might consume them on the ground. This trend has resulted in the world’s largest airline, American Airlines, removing in-flight entertainment screens on most of its narrowbody fleet, reasoning that over 90 percent of its passengers now carry mobile phones, tablets, and laptops with them on-board[3].

Helping attendees understand the next generation of integrated IFE solutions, Thales will showcase its Pulse – Smart Power Management. It integrates the use of Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) into IFE systems as a remote control, a second screen and a means to personalise the IFE experience.

Meanwhile, Display Interactive, the mastermind behind UGO wireless, will highlight how the comprehensive IFEC solution offers a full range of eCommerce features and allows multiple virtual shops to be deployed on board as well as traditional entertainment features – such as movies, videos, audio, games, and magazines.

Seatback is here to stay

Despite the proliferation in BYOD, there remains a clear demand for seatback services in IFE, with many airlines stating that customers prefer to have the choice of how they consume content in the sky[4]. AERQ, a joint venture between LG Electronics and Lufthansa Technik, founded in 2019, understands the importance of the seatback viewing experience to enhance the inflight experience. Its AERENA in seat system not only offers a captivating 4K viewing experience, but its extensive local storage allows for easy installation and maintenance, maximising simplicity for the passenger and airline.

Another company making a splash in the seatback arena is Apios, who will showcase its newest product ‘Reflect’ – a low cost, low weight passenger content system. Reflect is a 13-inch seatback screen, that affords viewers a superb content consumption experience, as well as offering passengers the chance to sync their smartphones to the screen to watch their own downloaded content.

Streaming options continue to multiply

As far back as 2017, IAG Group announced it would equip several hundred craft with Inmarsat’s European Aviation Network (EAN), including some short haul aircraft within the group, delivering streaming options for passengers on short-haul flights[5]. Streaming-based IFE has become another touch point for airlines, and many providers have recognised that.

FVS Entertainment will showcase its comprehensive range of international content, thanks to strong relationships with key partners and independent distributors. The company curates a striking selection of content based on latest trends and recent releases as well as developing bespoke strategies for airlines providing tailor-made content solutions, adapted to an airline’s specific budget.

Meanwhile, IdeaNova’s Inplay Suite is providing the ultimate streaming experience for passengers. Designed to fit seamlessly into existing IFE systems, its Inplay Players, state of the art solutions address demands for modern content delivery. For example, Inplay Live provides airlines with live TV content services with minimal investment to infrastructure, while Inplay VR provides a window to the future.

Ancillary revenue continues to be a key differentiator for airlines

There will be no shortage of ancillary revenue optimisation specialists in the IFEC Zone helping attendees understand how to generate revenue from goods and services onboard. Enhancing the retail experience in the cabin, AirFi, the global leader in portable IFE and inflight retailing technology, will showcase AirFi LEO. The lightweight offering consists of two small antennas mounted in the plane’s windows which facilitates transaction processing on board. It reduces fraud and increases cart size, both cutting costs and increasing revenue simultaneously.

airfi leo - Young Boy Dressed as Nerd with Alien Headphones — Credit: AirFi

Elsewhere, Bluebox Aviation Systems will introduce Bluebox Wow. Just the size of a lunchbox and easily deployed in overheard lockers, it provides digital services and content streamed to passenger devices in any cabin. These include revenue generating services such as onboard retail – including touch-free payments – advertising, and more traditional in-flight entertainment, including a wide range of film, TV, audio, games, and other digital content.

Polly Magraw, Event Director, Aircraft Interiors Expo, commented:

“Passenger appetite for enhanced digital capabilities and the ability to be connected at all times continues to grow. The result is an astoundingly high level of innovation. We’re excited to host so many of the industry’s leading IFE players, helping airline buyers stay clued up on the latest trends and consumer habits when it comes to onboard connectivity.

Covering the whole spectrum of IFEC products and services, there is no better place to do this than in the IFEC Zone at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2023.”

Visitor registration will open in March 2023. To register your interest to attend, visit the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) register below.

[1] Grand View Research

[2] https://www.inmarsat.com/en/news/latest-news/aviation/2023/emirates-a350-ifc-gx-aviation.html

[4] https://www.aviationtoday.com/2021/06/29/united-airlines-commits-seatback-ife-screens-record-airbus-boeing-jet-order/

[5] https://www.aviationbusinessnews.com/low-cost/aircraft-streaming-systems/

Women in Aviation: Anita Gradwohl, F/LIST

16/02/202328/02/2023

In Interviews, Women in Aviation.

Women in Aviation: Anita Gradwohl, F/LIST

We sat down with Anita Gradwohl, Group Director for Customer Relations & Sales within the New Business Unit for Aviation at F/LIST.

About Anita Gradwohl

Anita Gradwohl is the current Group Director for Customer Relations & Sales within the New Business Unit for Aviation at F/LIST.

The Austrian-headquartered company is a worldwide provider of exclusive interiors for business jets, yachts and residences and engages around 900 employees at eight locations across Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. Passion, reliability, and a visionary spirit determine every step of this Austrian family-run business.

Anita’s Professional Journey:

How long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“My aviation career started 18 years ago in 2005, as a dispatcher for Diamond Aircraft, an Austrian general aviation aircraft manufacturer. In 2006, I was promoted to Area Sales Manager for EMEA, Asia Pacific, overseeing fleet customers and Diamond dealers in the Asia Pacific Region. In 2011 F/LIST employed me to develop their aviation sector.

Over the last 12 years, I have supported their growing success in the aviation industry and was consequently promoted to the position of Group Director of Customer Relations & Sales within the New Business Unit focusing on Aviation.”

“Global accessibility is, in my opinion, the greatest development in aviation.”

Anita Gradwohl

How did you get into the industry?

“It’s actually a very simple story! In 2005, a very close cousin of mine called me to say that there was a position open at Diamond Aircraft that he thought I might find interesting. At the time, I had not really considered aviation as a career possibility, but I thought to myself, ‘Why not? Sounds interesting.’ Almost 18 years later, I’m still in the industry!”

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

“I had always dreamed of a job that allowed me to see the world, to travel, and to meet new and exciting people. And fortunately for me, the aviation industry has given me the opportunity to live that dream and to love what I do! I would say that’s the most appealing part.”

Women in Aviation:

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

“In my personal experience, when you work with a good team, there is little to no attention paid to gender. I have been fortunate to be surrounded by fantastic team members and have not faced problems working in a male-dominated industry.

That being said, I will always advocate for diversity – I always cheer internally when I meet a woman working in aviation, and always love to connect with like-minded colleagues.”

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

“It’s paramount for companies to address the gender gap because diversity is the key to success. Studies have shown that mixed management teams operate more efficiently than the ones that are composed of a gender majority. I firmly believe in the importance of diversity of thought – making the most of all team members have to offer.”

“All of us in the sector need to join forces in order to create a more sustainable future for aviation.”

Anita Gradwohl

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

“My strong character has been key. I define myself as a very committed, disciplined, persistent, and tenacious person, and believe that pursuing what you believe is right, regardless of the difficulties you might encounter, will lead to achievement. Until now, my character has proven invaluable in paving the road to success in my aviation career.”

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

“In line with my previous answer, as a woman it’s very important to have a strong character to thrive in such an industry. Fight for what you believe is right – in a professional and assertive manner – but have a good sense of humour to help smooth the way.”

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

“I can only speak about the situation in Austria, but prejudice is often the greatest obstacle preventing women from succeeding in the workplace. Unfortunately, traditional gender roles are still dominant, and some employers can view aspiring female candidates and employees as being a ‘pregnancy and family risk‘. This creates a discrepancy in the gender mix in the workplace.

A step in the right direction would be making working hours and locations more flexible to help mothers to stay in the workforce. When companies refuse to accommodate, they often tend to go part-time, which can limit future management and leadership opportunities.”

Anita Gradwohl, Group Director for Customer Relations & Sales – New Business Unit for Aviation, F/LIST.

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

“Wow, that’s a tough question! Honestly, it is hard to think of one in particular. My aviation career has been a highlight in itself. I am truly grateful for all the incredible experiences and opportunities I have had, the places I have visited on this incredible planet, and the phenomenal people I have met along the way!”

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

“Be yourself. Work hard and play hard. Always be kind and respectful.“

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

“Just do it! And once you start, don’t stop; commit to it. It’s important to work with a strong sense of discipline, perseverance, and assertiveness. Believe in yourself and what you’re capable of doing.

If you want to succeed in aviation, you cannot be afraid to tenaciously pursue what you believe is right. Most importantly, love what you do and don’t forget to have fun too, that makes it much more enjoyable for everybody.”

The Future of the Industry:

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

“There are obviously several major challenges currently impacting the aviation industry, such as the shortage of professional personnel, global supply chain issues, cyberattacks, and of course, the topic of sustainability. When discussing sustainability, the industry is often in the spotlight, so all of us in the sector need to join forces in order to create a more sustainable future for aviation. ”

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

“Global accessibility is, in my opinion, the greatest development in aviation. Flying is no longer a privilege reserved for the elite but is accessible to many. Simultaneously, this contemporary age of aviation has ushered in a new era of travel connecting communities from across the globe. Looking to the future, we must find ways to do this more sustainably.”

If you could change one thing in the aviation industry, what would it be?

“I want to be able to travel faster from one place to another, not to have to spend hours upon hours sat in an aircraft on a long-haul flight. If there are no alternatives, I want to be able to do so in the utmost comfort, surrounded by the latest innovations. Unfortunately, due to stringent regulations and the high costs involved in certification, our industry tends to fall behind other sectors in these aspects.

These are the types of challenges F/LIST is currently addressing as we strive to deliver aircraft cabins equipped with the latest innovations. F/LIST has chosen to redefine and evolve never before seen options; we are not changing the game; we are creating a whole new one. We are passionate, determined, and driven by the desire to always lead the industry and evolve its future.”

“Be yourself. Work hard and play hard. Always be kind and respectful.“

Anita Gradwohl

Who has been your biggest advocate/mentor in the workplace, and why?

“My bosses have always been my greatest advocates and mentors. If they had not recognized my drive, my dedication, and my willingness to continuously improve myself, and given me the resources to do so, I would not be where I am today.

They are, in large part, responsible for my career evolution. I thank them and hope I can replicate this support to others in the future.”

Anita is just one of the many women in aviation pioneering the latest innovations, technologies and products.

AIX Returns as Airlines Anticipate Profitability in 2023

31/01/202328/02/2023

[i] https://www.cnbc.com/2022/12/06/airlines-will-return-to-profitability-in-2023-after-three-year-slump-iata.html

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) will set the scene for the next chapter of aircraft cabin innovation when it returns to the Hamburg Messe from 6-8 June 2023.

Building on its success in 2022, Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) – the world’s leading marketplace for airlines and the supply chain to meet – returns as the industry is forecast to return to profitability in 2023, with more than 4.2 billion passengers set to take to the skies over the next 12 months[i].

The 2023 event is on track to exceed expectations, with the industry’s leading airlines, lessors and business jet operators expected to attend, ready to source next-generation products and solutions that will transform the passenger experience.

With a full spectrum of interior products and services on display, AIX will deliver the optimal platform for product specifiers to see and test more than 1,000 products from leading global airline suppliers based in 30-plus countries.

Among those returning to the event, major OEMs Boeing and Airbus will be joined by some of the leading players operating in the interiors sector from seating specialists Safran, RECARO Aircraft Seating, JAMCO Corporation and HAECO Cabin Solutions; and in-flight entertainment and connectivity providers Panasonic Avionics, Thales Group, Astronics Corporation, Latitude Aero, and Bluebox Aviation Systems.

Leaving no product area uncovered, attendees at this year’s event will find solutions for every aspect of the cabin interiors environment, including cabin management systems, flooring solutions, galley equipment, in-flight entertainment and connectivity, interior paints and coverings, lighting, lavatory and waste equipment, seating and more.

Helping attendees make the most of their time at the show, dedicated zones will bring together the industry’s leading suppliers and specialists in key product areas. The event’s ever-growing Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity (IFEC) Zone will again provide a dedicated space for attendees to test the latest IFEC products from more than 50 exhibiting companies.

Over the past decade, there has been an increasing synchronisation between inflight entertainment systems and passengers’ personal electronic devices (PEDs), with many airlines adopting personal seatback monitors and PEDs in new and retrofitted aircraft.

The IFEC Zone at AIX will once again provide airline attendees with access to experts, enabling them to navigate the complementary technologies facilitating a seamless interaction with IFE ahead of, and during a flight.

And, while dedicated show areas will help attendees discover the innovations and new technologies to meet their current business challenges, the event’s innovative show planning tool, AIX Connect, returns to enable attendees and exhibitors to meet during the show.

With more than 5,000 confirmed meetings scheduled across the three days of last year’s show, AIX Connect will once again help attendees build business connections, discuss new projects and facilitate the industry’s overwhelming desire to network and do business.

With innovation on the show floor and networking covered by AIX Connect, the event’s popular CabinSpace Live Seminar theatre will help connect audience members with cabin interior industry leaders, as they share experiences and insights into current and emerging challenges.

A full programme of sessions and speakers will be announced in the coming months. It will also play host to the winners of this year’s Crystal Cabin Awards – the only international award for excellence in aircraft interior innovation.

Attendees are also encouraged to immerse themselves in the latest insights at the Passenger Experience Conference, which takes place on the day before AIX, on 5 June 2023. The event will once again bring together leading visionaries representing airlines, airframers, OEMs, suppliers and design agencies to discuss the future of passenger experience, onboard environments, and services.

For attendees looking to maximise the networking opportunities afforded by the event, the Welcome Party on 5 June – after the conference closes – will provide the perfect platform to meet new contacts in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Polly Magraw, Event Director, Aircraft Interiors Expo, commented:

“It is great to see the recovery of the industry maintaining pace. While there is still a long way to go back to pre-pandemic levels, the industry is taking the right steps, and we’re delighted to see airlines embracing the opportunity to transform their business operations to meet the evolving expectations of passengers.

After the return of AIX in 2022, we’re excited to get back to business, creating even more opportunities for attendees to connect, learn and source the latest innovations. After what was one of our most successful years for new exhibitor launches, we can’t wait to see what the industry has in store for 2023.”

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) returns to the Hamburg Messe from 6-8 June 2023 in Halls B1 – B7. It will follow the Passenger Experience Conference on 5 June and be co-located with the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE), which can be found in Halls A1 and A4. Together, the events will provide passenger experience professionals with a unique opportunity to identify new products and solutions throughout the cabin.

Crystal Cabin Awards 2023: Submissions Now Open

03/11/202203/11/2022

Crystal Cabin Awards 2023: Submissions Now Open

Companies, institutions and students can apply now for one of aviation’s most prestigious awards until 25 January 2023.

Hamburg, 26 October 2022: A new chapter opens for the world’s most prestigious award for innovation in aircraft cabins and passenger comfort. Until January 25th, 2023, aviation companies, design studios, airlines and students can enter the Crystal Cabin Awards 2023, which is awarded in eight categories.

The award comprises a multi-stage process beginning with a selection of three finalists per category by the international jury of almost 30 aviation experts. During Aircraft Interiors Expo, the world’s biggest PaxEx trade fair, the jury chooses the winners to be announced on 6 June 2023 in Hamburg. This year’s opening of submissions coincides with the APEX EXPO in Long Beach, California, which hosts numerous players in this segment. Submissions are open now via www.crystal-cabin-award.com.

crystal-cabin-awardee-aurelien-lafforgue — © Jan Brandes

crystal-cabin-awards-polly-magraw — © Jan Brandes

The Future of Flight in Eight Categories

The Crystal Cabin Award is considered one of the aviation industry’s most internationally coveted and hotly contested awards. Winners in 2022 included major industry names such as Collins Aerospace, Safran and Southwest Airlines, as well as emerging companies such as Caeli Nova and Diab. The 2023 edition uses the same category structure as last year’s award.

The eight Crystal Cabin Award categories at a glance:

Cabin Concepts

This category rewards holistic cabin concepts. This category features designs already in use or nearing market launch, but also incorporates visionary ideas for the future. “Cabin Concepts” is aimed at manufacturers as well as design companies and airlines.

Cabin Systems – presented by Etihad Aviation Group

This category collates innovative products that provide operators such as airlines with a significant advantage in operation or efficiency. Examples are galleys, toilet systems, trolleys, air-conditioning systems as well as seats, primarily defined by efficiency aspects such as weight and space utilization. Digital solutions for passengers have their own category, “IFEC & Digital Services”.

Health & Safety

This category is a repository for innovation in concepts and products with an impact on safety, security, health and hygiene on board, or on the physical well-being of aircraft travelers. Entries may focus on passengers, crew or cargo.

IFEC & Digital Services

One of the fastest developing arenas in the aviation industry, IFEC is changing at breath-taking speed. Entries here must demonstrate technological superiority over competing products and cover in-flight entertainment solutions, connectivity equipment such as antennas and Wi-Fi, passenger apps or complete software solutions for a smart, connected cabin.

Material & Components

This category recognizes new materials and applications in the cabin that reduce costs and increase usability. It covers an enormous variety of different aircraft components; individual components or materials may be submitted, but not a fully developed product such as a seat.

Passenger Comfort

Entries in this category must demonstrate how they improve passenger comfort in the cabin. Innovations that benefit a large group of people may be rated higher due to greater impact on airline success. This category includes seats, toilets, storage, partitions, lighting solutions, trims, premium and business products, First Class and VIP products, to name but a few.

Sustainable Cabin – presented by Panasonic Avionics Corporation

The aviation industry is committed to becoming emissions-free within the next 30 years. This requires a high level of innovation covering every aspect of aviation, including the cabin and passenger experience. Customers are also becoming increasingly sensitive to travel sustainability issues, requiring operators to take action and provide solutions that are closely aligned to this growing trend. This is reflected in the Sustainable Cabin category of the Crystal Cabin Awards, which rewards contributions with a demonstrable effect on the environmental impact of aviation.

University

The University category gives students the chance to present forward-looking products and ideas for the aircraft cabin and to establish important contacts within the industry. The concepts submitted should make flying more comfortable, intelligent or lessen its ecological footprint.

Early bird rate until Christmas

This year, entrants will again have the opportunity to take advantage of an Early Bird rate. Entrants who submit their application by 25 December 2022 are eligible for a reduced entry fee of €250 (plus 19% VAT for EU entries). After that, the submission fee €360, as in the previous year. Students applying in the University category are, of course, exempt from all submission fees.

The application form and conditions of entry, an overview of the 2022 winners and a more detailed explanation of all Crystal Cabin Award categories can be found online at www.crystal-cabin-award.com.

The application period runs until January 25th, 2023.

Interview with: Dana Kirchmar

05/07/202220/02/2023

In Blog, Interviews, Women Behind Aviation, Women in Aviation.

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Dana Kirchmar, VP Customer Support Operations at SmartSky Networks, 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.

How long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I started my career in the aerospace industry 35 years ago, working on a classified spacecraft program. 10 years into my career, I moved from aerospace to aviation and have been in this industry ever since.”

How did you get into the industry?

“I had been pigeon-holed into a role in a very large corporation and was not being encouraged or even allowed to move around to see what else might be available to me. It became apparent that in order to get out of the rut that I felt that I was in, I would have to leave the company.

“I think that the biggest challenge is the pilot shortage that the industry is now facing.”

Dana Kirchmar

I sent my resume to dozens of aerospace companies and was fortunate to land an exciting role, which I hadn’t specifically targeted. I progressed from being an entry level engineer (having had to basically start my career over after moving from aerospace to aviation) to a technical manager of a team in approximately 3 years. It could not have been a more perfect fit.”

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

“I have been fortunate to work in several organisations where aviation and specifically the airplanes themselves were the passion of everyone on the team. I think one of the best things about being in the aviation industry is the type of people that it attracts and the lifelong friendships that I have formed. And I have been fascinated with aircraft and spacecraft and flight for as long as I can remember.”

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

“As much as I have loved every role that I have had in the aviation industry, I would be disingenuous to say I hadn’t encountered difficulties that I would attribute to my being a woman. It is difficult for a young woman to aspire to a role in which she cannot picture herself, and I have been in very few situations, because of when I entered the workforce, where I have had a woman in my chain of command.

I think that men also have had a difficult time picturing women in leaderships roles in aviation because it is such a rarity and until someone makes a brave choice and promotes a woman into leadership based on her knowledge, skills and expertise, things will not change.

It is getting better, but we definitely have a long way to go. Women now make up about 24% of C-Level leaders in tech companies, which demonstrates some progress, but in aviation it is a startling 3%. This has to change.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“I have encountered gender discrimination in my career several times. I believe that you would be hard-pressed to find a female engineer who entered the workforce in the 1980’s who has not experienced this. Things are getting better but we still have a lot of work to do.”

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

“The population of our workforce needs to reflect the population of our customer base. Without addressing the gender gap, we lose the specific insights that women bring to the table in regard to the products and services that we develop.

Additionally, having more women in STEM/STEAM careers in general is good for the economy, good for families and good for employers. STEM/STEAM roles are some of the higher paying positions and when women earn more, families are more secure. And, as we are all aware, we are currently experiencing a serious lack of professionals in the pipeline to fill the roles of those in the industry who are retiring – certainly pilots, but also other those in non-pilot aviation roles.

We should look to the approximately 50% of the population that is so under-represented in aviation (less than 10% of pilots and less than 5% of A&P mechanics are women, for example), to close the gap.”

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

“I believe that I have been successful because I have been encouraged to use the skills enabled by both the left and right sides of my brain throughout my career. I have people and communication skills (right side) not necessarily associated with stereotypical engineers and logic, and problem-solving skills (left side) that I developed as part of my engineering education.

“Things are getting better but we still have a lot of work to do.”

Dana Kirchmar

I have been in many situations where I have been considered “the only engineer that we can put in front of the customer” and have enjoyed multiple opportunities where the door opened because of my engineering background but I was able to walk through because of my people skills.”

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

“In order to survive in the aviation industry, I believe that women need a thick skin, the courage to ask for what they want, and resilience. First, one of my own personal struggles throughout my career has been that I tend to take things personally.

It has served me well to remember that disagreements and conflict are a healthy part of progress and a normal part of business. Second, if you do not let others know what you want to be, do or experience, you cannot expect it to just be handed to you. Sure, sometimes something serendipitous may happen but you may be surprised that in many instances, all you have to do is ask.

Finally, resilience is key because when you do ask, the answer may not always be yes. And it is just a fact that you will fail at some point in your career. Learning from mistakes is a key part of the process of advancing your career and the quicker you can bounce back, the quicker you can move forward.”

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

“I have been fortunate to have had many “once in a lifetime” opportunities during my career and it is always difficult to pick out one highlight. One highlight that I am particularly proud of actually occurred about 18 months after I had graduated college and was working for Martin Marietta on a classified spacecraft.

“I think one of the best things about being in the aviation industry is the type of people that it attracts.”

Dana Kirchmar

I was selected to be part of the on-site launch team for the very first classified space shuttle launch and was in mission control, responding go or no go for my specific system, during the launch. It is really amazing to have had experienced that at 24 years old and I spent several months afterwards wondering if my career was going to be all downhill from there.

Luckily it was not. I have had many more highlights since then and am actually writing a book about them.”

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

“This will sound kind of silly because at the time it was about a “team jacket” but it really did turn out to be a great piece of advice that I have thought about over and over again in my career. A “rival” team at my company had all been presented with jackets that bore the name of their customer and my team was jealous.

We complained to our manager for many months that we didn’t have our own jackets and questioned what made that team so special. During a business trip, I returned to my hotel room one evening to find a bag on my bed containing my own team jacket and a yellow sticky note that said only “Sometimes all you have to do is ask.”

“There are many wonderful career paths within aviation.”

Dana Kirchmar

I have no doubt that my willingness to ask directly for what I wanted from that moment on is precisely why I have had the opportunities and experiences that I have had.”

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

“Go for it! There are many wonderful career paths within aviation – no doubt there is one that would fit their interests. I have found that most people in the aviation industry are passionate about aviation and their place in it. The long-term friendships that I have built by being in the business is one of the very best things about it!”

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

“Based on the current situation with delayed and cancelled flights, I think that the biggest challenge is the pilot shortage that the industry is now facing. This is a great opportunity for our younger aspiring aviators to start their pilot training and get their foot in the door!”

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

“I may be biased because of the last 14 years of my career, but I would say in-flight connectivity. There is not enough credit given to the engineers who have designed the systems, including ground, airborne and satellite systems, that make it possible to experience connectivity during flight.”

If you could change one thing in the aviation industry, what would it be?

“I wish that the aviation would be more welcoming to women, in all areas and at all points in their career paths. Tech industries in general are moving in the right direction, but aerospace and specifically aviation, is severely behind.”

Who has been your biggest advocate/mentor in the workplace and why?

“I had a boss when I was about 15 years into my career who put his faith and trust in me and treated me with more respect than anyone else before or since. He appreciated my background, skills and experience and interacted with me in a way that made me believe that I was an expert in my field.

He recently came back into my life last year, although we never really lost touch, and nominated me for a Board position at the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum in Denver, Colorado. The opportunity to serve on this Board has truly changed my life and has allowed me to give back to aviation for all that aviation has given me.”

About Dana Kirchmar

Dana Kirchmar has 35 years experience in aerospace/aviation industries in global companies. Career highlights include being a launch team participant for the first classified space shuttle launch, calling “go/no go” for her system, flying to .97Mach in a corporate jet, and witnessing first flight of an aircraft she helped design.

AIX returns packed with new product announcements

27/06/2022

Watch the on-site videos and highlights

AIX returns packed with new product announcements

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) returns to delight the cabin interiors industry, packed with new product announcements

From 14-16 June 2022, more than 12,000 professionals from the cabin interiors industry descended on the Hamburg Messe to celebrate the triumphant return of Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX). The highly anticipated event – the first physical AIX in three years – created a sought-after opportunity for the passenger experience community, including representatives from more than 180 airlines, leasing companies and business jet operators, to reconnect face-to-face to discover the latest product launches from over 600 exhibitors – and new announcements at the show did not disappoint.

A hotbed of product innovation

The opening day of Aircraft Interiors Expo 2022 was defined by an exciting line-up of new product launches, with exhibitors eager to reveal the innovations and new developments they’ve been working on over the past 36 months. Among those to unveil new products, Panasonic Avionics announced its new in-flight entertainment (IFE) seat-end system, Astrova. Designed with passenger engagement in mind, Astrova reflects the latest on-the-ground technology, making the transition from passengers’ personal devices to in-flight entertainment seamless. It features cinema-grade 4K OLED screens with High Dynamic Range (HDR), Panasonic’s award-winning Bluetooth technology, as well as 67W of USB-C power to fast-charge smart devices.

Following its successful launch to a packed stand, the Panasonic team announced that fellow AIX exhibitor, Recaro Aircraft Seating would seamlessly integrate the Astrova seat-end solution into its newly revamped CL3810 to further optimise the passenger journey for single-aisle and twin-aisle aircraft. Attendees visiting the Recaro stand were provided with a first look at the CL3810 economy class seat.

As the successor to the German seat manufacturer’s popular CL3710, the new CL3810 offers weight savings of 1.5kg per seat, combining innovative ergonomic technology, premium comfort cushions with layered foam, and lightweight smart engineering. Its unique shape is designed to support the passenger’s points of tension, which reflects the award-winning design of the Recaro Automotive sport seat. Compared to its predecessor, the CL3810 offers an additional inch of living space, a more advanced articulated seat pan, and a wider backrest to enhance row-to-row privacy.

Other seating innovations were quick to make headlines across the show from suppliers including Safran Seats, TSI Seats, Aviointeriors and more. Showcasing a range of innovative concepts and configurations, Aviointeriors highlighted its Business Class Allegra lie-flat seat; 7.5kg FABRY economy class seat; and ‘Heric’ (Herringbone in Cruise) and ‘DoDo’ (Double Double Bed) family of products, which allow seating to be tailored to each airline’s requirements. These concepts are designed to provide a seating area that can be easily converted to a lie-flat area, expanding configuration options for airlines.

Safran Seats showcased a duo of business-class products: VUE and UNITY. The first, VUE, is adapted to long-haul flights on narrowbody aircraft, but designed to assimilate the experience of the most comfortable, widebody airplanes. The name, VUE stems from the window-facing experience it delivers for every passenger. Meanwhile, UNITY is a new generation of high-end, forward-facing business class seats that provide every passenger with direct access to the aisle and multiple storage areas.

TSI Seats also launched its economy class seat Milligram, and award-winning, business class seat Royalux. Described as a next-generation lightweight economy class seat, the Milligram is optimised for narrow-body A320 and B737 aircraft. It is one of the lightest seats in the market at less than 7.5kg per passenger without a dress cover and USB outlet. Furthermore, it consists of a significantly reduced number of parts – less than 70 parts per triple – which are mostly made using ultra-durable, high-performance composite and aluminium parts. The company also displayed its new Royalux business class seat. Designed for the A320, A350, B737 and B787 aircraft, it can be used in business class in narrow-body, or premium economy in wide-body aircraft types.

In one of the more thought-provoking designs on display, TU Delft student, Alejandro Nunez Vicente’s chaise lounge concept returned to the Aircraft Interior Refurbishment España (AIRE) stand. The innovative concept is designed for a bi-level cabin that has rows of traditional seats on the floor, along with rows of elevated seats. Nominated for a Crystal Cabin Award in 2021, Alejandro returned to AIX following successful funding to work full-time on his prototype.

Ali Aljufairi, Manager IFE & Connectivity, Gulf Air, attended AIX to see and try the latest seat innovations. He explained: “The return to an in-person event was so important in truly appreciating the different materials being used, the thought put into the design, as well as gaining a more rounded understanding of what the product can offer. This was aided immensely by attending the numerous product launches by seat manufacturers, such as Recaro, Stelia and TSI. It is such an educational experience, an institution. If I could describe it in three words, it would be ‘educational’, ‘crucial’ and ‘possibilities’.”

Outside of new seating concepts, further product announcements were unveiled across all eight halls. Helping airlines bring the connected vision to reality, Airbus revealed its Airspace Link HBCplus – a flexible high bandwidth connectivity solution that will be offered as an SFE* line-fit catalogue option and also for retrofit on all Airbus programmes. HBCplus, which initially encompasses Ka-band services, will enable airlines to connect to a choice of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) via a new certified terminal and radome built as part of the aircraft. In the future, it is planned to extend HBCplus to include MSPs which offer Ku-band services.

Airbus also revealed to AIX attendees that it had selected fellow AIX exhibitor and connectivity satcom leader, Inmarsat as the first MSP, while Safran Passenger Innovations (SPI) would act as terminal provider and hardware integrator of ThinKom’s proven antenna technology.

On the Collins Aerospace stand, attendees discovered the company’s new modular, thermoelectric cooling system that is scalable to fit a variety of applications throughout an aircraft’s interior. SpaceChiller quietly and efficiently chills compartments to food-safe temperatures without the use of refrigerants that may impact global warming. It is designed to offer airlines flexibility in service, storage, and space without sacrificing room for passengers and flight attendants. Applications range from premium suites and passenger social zones to single galley inserts and whole cart bays.

Meanwhile, STG Aerospace declared 2022 a major launch year with innovations across its core technologies, photoluminescent and electrical. It revealed the world’s narrowest and lightest emergency floor path marking – the brand new saf-Tglo® SSUL-X11. This narrower option is designed to enhance cabin aesthetics, blending seamlessly into the cabin design, while maintaining passenger safety requirements. The company also announced its new platform-agnostic Universal Lighting capability and emergency exit system package for business jet and small fixed-wing aircraft (CS23).

Speaking about the return to AIX, Kate Williams, Brand Marketing Manager, STG Aerospace, said: “The show has been really good and really busy. We weren’t sure what to expect after three years, but we’ve been fully booked with meetings and the quality of visitors has been great. We’ve had lots of interest in the new products we’ve launched at the show. The feedback has been really positive and it’s great to know that we’re launching the products our customers want and need.”

A place to learn and discuss future thinking

In addition to the abundance of new product development being showcased, the return of Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) welcomed four days of high-level thought leadership as experts from all corners of the industry came together to learn and debate the future of the passenger experience industry. Kick-starting proceedings, the Passenger Experience Conference opened at the newly refurbished Congress Center Hamburg (CCH).

Opening the conference, Paul Wylde, Founder, CEO and Creative Director of paulwylde delivered an impassioned speech that reflected on the lessons learnt during the pandemic, the changing attitudes of passengers and the ever-growing importance for brands to watch, observe and understand their audiences. He provided the audience with five key observations, from consumers’ desire to find something meaningful in the brands they choose, to the explosion of the metaverse and the importance of feeling connected. He encouraged brands to foster a culture of creativity, investigation and exploration and to find the will for measured risk-taking.

Following his opening keynote, Paul was joined by Silvia Mosquera, Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer, TAP Portugal; Anthony Woodman, Vice President – Customer Journeys & Reward, Virgin Atlantic; and moderator Jennifer Newlands, Vice President, Head of Strategy, Brand, Content, Airbus to discuss the critical passenger experience strategies transforming travel and supporting airline renewal.

Meanwhile, two conference streams ran in parallel throughout the afternoon: Rebellious Reconstruction and Integrity in Action, bringing together experts from LIFT Aero Design, TEAGUE, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Diehl Aviation, Tapis Corporation, Breeze Airways, Cirium, PriestmanGoode, Finnair, Safran Cabin, LSG Group, OneWeb, Viasat, Inmarsat, AERQ, Cathay Pacific and more.

Closing the day, Fabien Pelous, Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Air France shared candid insights into how the airline is responding to the latest trends and passenger expectations. He explained the role personalisation is playing and how Air France customers increasingly want more entertainment and better connectivity. Fabien was joined by Joe Bentley, Chief Technology Officer, Panasonic Avionics and Jochen Werner, Vice President Industrial Design, Airbus for a final panel discussion, where it was agreed that the way forward required a focus on a sustainable in-flight experience, as well as one that is more connected and personalised for every passenger.

Future cabin trends under the spotlight

Continuing to offer opportunities to learn and debate future cabin trends, CabinSpace LIVE returned to the AIX show floor with a programme of insightful sessions offering attendees a chance to reflect on cabin-specific trends and challenges.

A panel of senior industry executives provided attendees with an up-to-date outlook of the commercial aviation and interiors market. In this session, aviation and cabin interiors experts including Andrew Doyle, Senior Director, Market Development, Cirium; Gary Weissel, Managing Officer, Tronos Aviation Consulting, Inc.; Rob Morris, Global Head of Consultancy, Ascend by Cirium; Elizabeth deYoung, VP Marketing and Strategy, Safran Cabin; and Markus Höllerer, Head of Strategy & Products, RECARO Aircraft Seating painted an optimistic outlook for the future of their respective industries.

Morris described the industry’s 10-year period of ‘uninterrupted growth’ before the pandemic as ‘driving through thick fog with our foot firmly on the accelerator’, only to hit a covid-shaped brick wall. However, he was upbeat about the industry’s recovery prospects, demonstrating through modelling calculated by Cirium’s Ascend tool that the future was bright, with one scenario predicting the market could return to pre-pandemic levels by August 2023.

Both Morris and Weissel, however, were keen to stress these were hypothetical, complicated by many unknowns going forward, particularly the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Weissel predicted that due to said uncertainty, there might be significant changes to the supply chain, such as restructuring processes that could see more production brought in-house, something both DeYoung and Höllerer agreed with. Both too predicted a positive recovery path for the aircraft interiors industry, but the latter acknowledged that the supply chain issue was the primary obstacle before demand and investment could return.

Other sessions explored how to make sustainable aviation a reality; the how and why of accessible air travel; and the role of women in aviation. In addition, attendees were treated to an introduction to this year’s Crystal Cabin Award Winners. Each company was provided with an opportunity to showcase and introduce their award-winning concepts to the AIX audience, revealing the inspiration behind their innovative designs and intended applications onboard.

This included Safran Cabin’s Fire-Resistant Cargo Container, which took the Health and Safety Award after it wowed the jury with its ability to offer fire containment for Class D fires for up to six hours. The Thales Avionics team also headed to the CabinSpace LIVE stage to introduce its ‘Pulse’ charging solution for aircraft cabins. Winner of the Materials and Components category, it uses patented power management technology to dynamically allocated power during the flight.

First-time visitor Diana Danvova, IFE Engineer, Air Astana, commented on her show experience, stating: “It’s my first time at Aircraft Interiors Expo. I’ve met with so many interesting suppliers who will help me with upcoming projects. As my focus is on IFE, it’s been great to meet with so many relevant companies. There is so much innovation on display, and the chance to meet with my peers has been priceless.”

Getting back to business

With so much innovation and new technology on display, attendees were focused on building existing and new relationships at AIX to discuss future projects, facilitated by the show’s innovative new show planning tool: AIX Connect. Designed to help key airline buyers meet exhibitors during the show to build business connections and discuss new projects, the show planning tool has never been more relevant as the aircraft interiors industry reconvenes for the first time since the global pandemic began. It demonstrated its pivotal role in facilitating the industry’s desire to network, with more than 5,000 confirmed meetings across the three days of the show.

Commenting on the success of Aircraft Interiors Expo this year, Polly Magraw, AIX Event Director, said: “We have been completely blown away by the response from exhibitors and attendees this year. The atmosphere at this year’s show was extremely positive and demonstrated the appetite among all attendees to reconnect and drive the industry’s recovery. Visitors were able to identify new and exciting products from exhibitors, suppliers had the opportunity to do business with the airline buyers they wanted to meet, and delegates spoke extremely positively about the education opportunities at the conference. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all who joined us over the course of the four days. The breadth of innovation on show was truly remarkable and is a clear demonstration of the resilience and hard work the industry has been firmly focused on during this time.”

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) returns in 2023 from 6-8 June. It will once again be co-located with the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE) and Passenger Experience Conference.

Digital Cabin by ADS heads to AIX 2022

23/06/202220/02/2023

In Product Showcase, Products.

The UK has delivered ground-breaking and influential aircraft interiors designs over the years. It’s this innovative spirit and capability that motivated UK aerospace trade association, ADS, to create its Digital Cabin: a virtual interiors capability showcase. Reuben Gomez, from ADS will be at AIX 2022 this year.

“We are thrilled to be meeting face to face at AIX Hamburg this June”, says Reuben Gomez, ADS aerospace business development lead. We welcome the opportunity to showcase UK innovation at its best from our cabin exhibitors, including some sustainable new technology. The 3D visualisations are incredibly realistic and I can quickly show a number of products from the single cabin geometry, which can be tricky at a physical trade show”.

Digital Cabin – a one-stop global shop

From pioneering seat concepts to advanced electronics, lighting, and expert contract manufacturers, view UK interior excellence in our digital cabin.

Exhibitors include Cecence, an award-winning composite solutions development and manufacturing company, developing lightweight aero interiors using recycled carbon, natural fibres and bio-based resin systems and Airtek, a government-funded consortium between Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE), JPA and SWS Aircraft Certification and was the first entity to sign up.

“When ADS told me about the Digital Cabin concept I thought it was a great idea”, notes WAE’s senior commercial manager, Stuart Olden. “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. Airtek’s all-composite construction reduces weight dramatically and so cuts all-important fuel burn and CO2 production. Our individual web page incorporates 3D renders, fact sheets and video enabling us to get this message across in a number of different ways.”

Other exhibitors include TT Electronics, STG Aerospace, IPC Mouldings, Flitetec, Future Plastics, Cecence and Bradfor with a new exhibitor due to be unveiled at AIX 2022.

“3D visualisation helps build customer confidence and is playing an increasingly important role in the B2B sales process. Buyers can see the products in situ, at scale and from all angles, something that helps for more complex products”, comments ADS Marketing & Engagement Manager Nicola Green. “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.”

Book an appointment with Reuben Gomez to find out more about our cabin exhibitors: reuben.gomez@adsgroup.org.uk.

Meet five of our exhibitors who are also exhibiting at the show:

1. Flitetec – Stand 6A13. Click to see the Exhibitor profile

Flitetec source, make and integrate and are your unique supply chain services partner. Showcasing at AIX the acquisition of an aerospace screen printing company and their range of manufacturing and distribution expertise as well as MX14, a safe aerospace approved water-based cabin solution for Sanitizing, Cleaning & Stain Removal.

2. STG Aerospace – Stand 5A17. Click to see the Exhibitor profile

There are fantastic reasons to visit the STG Aerospace AIX stand this year:

· Exciting Emergency Exit Marking Innovation: Be the first to see their brand new saf-Tglo® emergency floor path marking product development. It’s a world first. Your passenger experience, design house and cabin design teams will want to see this!

· Universal Lighting: Grab the first opportunity to experience their new suite of smart, modular universal LED lighting solutions that provide truly flexible systems for your aircraft.

· Business Jets: Learn about their new emergency exit system package for VIP interiors with full customisation options to make your interiors unique.

· Plus visit their stand for a chance to win a pair of Ray-Ban Sunglasses!

3. Bradfor Ltd – Stand Hall B7 D10. Click to see the Exhibitor profile

Northern Ireland based Bradfor Ltd are really looking forward to attending. AIX Expo is always an excellent opportunity to meet with their customers, build on existing relationships and develop new ones within the aircraft interiors sector.

4. IPC Mouldings – Stand Hall B7 D10. Click to see the Exhibitor profile

Also from Northern Ireland, IPC Mouldings are delighted to be back exhibiting at the AIX Expo this year after a short hiatus. It is one of the ‘must attend’ events for the aircraft interiors sector and they are looking forward to seeing the new trends, innovations and technologies in the industry.

5. TT Electronics – Stand 2E29. Click to see the Exhibitor profile

Airlines are constantly challenged to enhance the passenger experience through technology, especially in seat controls, signage and ambience.

TT Electronics develops customised interface and lighting solutions using materials certified for flight; passenger control units (PCUs), cabin signage, mood lighting, seat identification and suite information panels will be featured at the show.

With considerable expertise in thin-film backlighting, the company will also demonstrate its latest mood light solutions – lightweight, homogenous, and power efficient alternatives to current competitive offerings.

At Aircraft Interiors Expo 2022 they will showcase their innovative and power-efficient products that improve the passenger experience through lighting technology including SIP panels, seat number illumination, stowage and accent light solutions.

They are also excited to featuring our cutting-edge low-profile lighting at the show, developed in partnership with global airline seating customers for exclusive installation in First and Business class cabins.

TT Electronics’ patented light guide system provides package modules with a depth of less than 10mm while still retaining high quality intensity and an even distribution of light without problematic hotspots. The lights are available in RGB-W aligned to airline branding guidelines and feature functional features such as DND indicators.

TT Electronics interface and lighting solutions can be certified to all Airbus and Boeing In-Seat requirements.

www.digitalcabin.aero

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Women in Aviation – spotlight on Rachel James

10/06/202220/02/2023

In Blog, Interviews, Women Behind Aviation, Women in Aviation.

Women in Aviation – spotlight on Rachel James

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Rachel James, Lead Industrial Designer, Safran Seats, 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.

How long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I have worked within the aviation industry for over 21 years.”

How did you get into the industry?

“My interest in design started from childhood and traveling with my family. For me, one of the most exciting parts of the experience was the flight. From the perfectly portioned in-flight meals to the small but highly multi-functional spaces, I found myself fascinated by the level of design and filled many notepads with sketches and designs before I even considered a career in it.

“The aviation industry needs to address its carbon footprint.”

Rachel James

I always knew I wanted to combine my creativity with practicality and my passion for design was forged from an early age. After achieving a master’s degree in Industrial design, I began my career at a small Engineering Company that designed and engineered small galleys and bar units.

My main role was to design and create sketches of social zones and bar units/galleys that would support the CMM documents and presentations for the customers. I moved specifically into industrial design at the Camberley based Heath Tecna where I supported the design of front row monuments and social zones. My career progressed from there.”

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

“I have always found the initial stage of a project to be the most exciting. Being provided an empty space envelope within an aircraft and having the ability to create a unique design, tailored to a customer brief within this space, brings me joy.

“”I would push the agenda on greener air travel and make flights more sustainable.”

Rachel James

Capturing cultural tastes, selecting trim & finish, and implementing complementary styling shapes within the furniture allows me to express my creativity. Getting validation directly from the customer that my design hits the mark, is hugely rewarding.”

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

“I have always worked and designed within a male-dominated industry. I was one of only four women at my University studying for a degree in Industrial Design. Traditionally, the ratio of women to men has always been extremely low in my career surroundings.

When I started working within the aviation industry, being a minority certainly had challenges; however, as my knowledge of the industry grew, so did my confidence. I thoroughly enjoy working alongside all departments and guiding engineers and customers with potential routes forward.

The industry has evolved and I am confident that my opinion and my skills as a woman within my industry are highly valued amongst my peers.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“I have been in the industry for a while and times have certainly changed. Twenty years ago, the industry had even fewer women in it and I was treated somewhat differently, even if the treatment wasn’t intentional.

Over the years I have seen positive steps and witnessed more women entering the industry. This has really helped change the culture in a very positive way. Being in a company like Safran, they drive equality and equal treatment, and this is continuously supported with ongoing training to keep the equality values running through the teams.”

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

“Any form of discrimination is fundamentally wrong. When looking to bring in a new employee all candidates should be judged purely on their ability to do the job. Gender should have no influence.”

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

“I believe that it has been a combination of characteristics and skills that have led me to where I am within my career today. It is about being open and adaptable. I am able to generate ideas and concepts quickly. I communicate well, which helps to translate concepts and ideas.

I am also an approachable person and believe it is best to address issues early, in open discussion. Whether it’s a project plan or a team issue, talking and sharing ideas as a team is key to driving projects forward.”

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

“Out of all the attributes I have seen I believe the most successful women have a high level of confidence and composure. These are the women I aspire to be like.”

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

“Lack of self-belief.“

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

“I would say the biggest career highlight was the first time my designs fully captured the customer’s imagination and were selected.”

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

“The best piece of advice I was given was at college when I was told, “You can do whatever you want in life, as long as you set your mind to it”. It made me feel driven and motivated to make my mark within an industry dominated by high-achieving male counterparts.”

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

“I would say be brave and go for it. From a designer’s perspective, there is no other industry like it. Your designs could end up flying in the sky.”

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

“The aviation industry needs to address its carbon footprint. While the industry has the important role of connecting the world, we cannot lose sight of our responsibility to the environment. We all need to take greater accountability for the products we create and implement ways to make them more sustainable.

“Getting validation directly from the customer that my design hits the mark, is hugely rewarding.”

Rachel James

I understand OEM’s, Airbus, Boeing, Safran and competitor seat manufacturers are committed to supporting this topic. It is a major change that we all must consider implementing to help build a better future.”

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

“I would say the advancement in technology. Touch screen and high-definition monitors within the suites have created a far more enjoyable space to be in when travelling, making it a far more interactive experience for the passenger. Wireless charging and other intuitive technologies encourage passengers to relax and lose themselves in an entertainment-driven, immersive experience.”

If you could change one thing in the aviation industry, what would it be?

“I would push the agenda on greener air travel, prioritise the implementation of emerging technologies that help reduce our carbon footprint, and make flights more sustainable.”

Who has been your biggest advocate/mentor in the workplace and why?

“I recently took part in a mentoring scheme that assisted females to develop themselves further. I was mentored for about six months by a highly positioned female professional. I hugely benefited from this scheme and I would recommend a mentoring scheme to anyone wanting to better themselves and their career.

“The industry has evolved and I am confident that my opinion and my skills as a woman within my industry are highly valued amongst my peers.”

Rachel James

It really helped me break down how I work as an individual, where my strengths lie, and what I needed to do to improve. I would say that this female professional really helped me understand my career and myself and she has been my biggest mentor to date.”

About Rachel James

Rachel James is currently working as the Lead Industrial Designer at Safran Seats GB. Leading the SGB Advanced Concept Team. Rachel was born in Swansea, Wales where she graduated from Swansea’s Metropolitan University of Wales with a Degree (BSc) and Masters (MSc) within Industrial Design.

Rachel recently received the title of Safran Expert in Passenger and Crew Experience.

Away from the office, you can find Rachel enjoying time with her children and relaxing with a good book.