Aircraft Interior Design
An Overview of Selected Outlines & Images from JETLINER CABINS: Evolution & Innovation
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ISBN 0-979-8-218-33203-7
CHAPTER 1 OVERVIEW
FIRST-CLASS LUXURY
Photo credits:(left) Singapore Airlines; (top right) Emirates, (bottom right) Garuda Indonesia
Photo credit: Qatar Airways |
What can first-class passengers expect for the money they have paid for their first-class tickets? How does it feel to fly in the first-class salons in the sky? When customers purchase first-class tickets, they expect the ultimate in luxury from their airline. To compete for high-paying customers, airlines are constantly upgrading their product and delivery standards.
In this Chapter, Readers will learn about the various special features that airlines offer in their top-level, premium cabins, including upgraded cabin accommodations, spacious seating arrangements, and epicurean dining options. However, one of the keys to retaining customer preference is the aircraft seat itself, which has seen steady progress toward ever-higher standards of aircraft interior design, safety, security, and comfort. Readers will also learn about the history of first-class amenities, including the introduction of extendable footrests, pioneered by Pan Am and TWA in the 1980s. This Chapter highlights the importance of airlines delivering on their promises to retain high-paying customers.
SWEET DREAMS
Photo credit: British Airways |
This Chapter focuses on innovations in providing more space and comfort in the First Class cabin, such as the evolution from the early deck-chair-style footrest extensions to electronically operated padded leg-rest panels. Readers will get an insider’s look at the dramatic redesign of British Airways’ First Class cabin in 1995, which introduced the individual ‘pod’ for greater privacy and comfort. The pod includes features such as a table, visitor’s seat and personal TV-and-video entertainment system. The Chapter emphasizes the importance of keeping up with the industry’s concepts for aircraft interior design while catering to the needs of high-revenue customers. As air travel continues to be a competitive industry, airlines must invest in upgrading their First Class cabins to stay ahead. Overall, Readers will gain insight into the history of first-class commercial air travel and the importance of meeting customer demands.
FLIGHT TO QUALITY
Learn about the transformation of First Class cabins in long-haul flights during the late 1990s. Airlines were forced to reconsider their position in the first-class market because of improved service standards and changes in regulatory requirements. Some airlines dropped First Class and moved to a two-class service, while others decided to upgrade their First Class cabins.
This Chapter provides details on the distinctive presentations of various airlines, such as Lufthansa’s deep blue seat covers and Singapore Airlines’ luxury railcar-interior-inspired aesthetic. It also discusses the launch of American Airlines’ Flagship Suite and Swissair’s Eames ‘Chair-in-the-Air’. The Author provides an optimistic perspective on the future of First Class cabins and presents a persuasive argument for investing in high-quality cabin designs to stay ahead of the competition.
FIRST-CLASS PRODUCT PLANNING
Photo credit: American Airlines |
The planning and design of the First Class cabin is a complex task for every airline. This Chapter outlines the key considerations for airlines when planning their First Class cabins, such as maximizing space and comfort while meeting regulatory requirements. It also discusses the importance of understanding and addressing customer needs and preferences, often by incorporating new technology into cabin design. Readers will gain insight into how airlines strategize to attract high-paying customers and differentiate their first-class product features and customer benefits from those of their competitors. The Chapter emphasizes the urgent need for airlines to continuously evolve and innovate in order to maintain customer loyalty and satisfaction in the first-class market.
By purchasing JETLINER CABINS, Readers will gain access to valuable insights on how major scheduled airlines are responding to the needs of top-tier travellers by providing top-notch amenities and services, such as warm and personal greetings, special ground-transfer arrangements, personal privacy, gourmet cuisine and five-star-hotel-style tranquililty. To counter competition from private aviation, airlines must consistently implement new product developments. For example, aboard its Airbus A380 aircraft, Etihad offers The Residence, a three-room suite featuring a double-bed, a separate living area, and an en-suite bathroom with shower facilities.
The optimistic, urgent, and persuasive tone of JETLINER CABINS encourages Readers to stay abreast of the latest developments in the airline industry and highlights the need for airlines to keep up with changing customer needs to remain competitive.
Photo credit: Etihad
E-BOOK Promo (2:10)
Welcome aboard! This aerial journey will take you through the design and manufacture of a space we too often take for granted, the interior jetliner cabin.
Welcome to the First Class Cabin
Photo credit: Emirates |
In summary, this Chapter highlights the importance of understanding customer preferences and implementing innovative design strategies in order to stay ahead in the highly competitive first-class market. It provides an optimistic outlook for the future of First Class cabins, emphasizing the need for airlines to continuously evolve and adapt to changing trends and customer needs. Investing in high-quality cabin-design coverage is crucial for attracting and retaining top-tier customers and staying ahead of competitors. By staying informed and adapting to customer needs, airlines can create a luxurious and unique first-class experience that will set them apart from the rest. So, it is essential for airlines to prioritize the planning and design of their First Class cabins to provide an exceptional and memorable flying experience for their customers. The future of first-class travel looks bright, with new technologies and design innovations constantly emerging to enhance the overall flying experience for passengers. As airlines continue to invest in their first-class passenger services, customers can expect even more luxurious and personalized amenities and services in the future. So, stay tuned for exciting developments in the world of first-class travel! Let’s fly high with innovation and customer satisfaction together. If you want to learn the whole story, get the book, JETLINER CABINS: Evolution & Innovation!
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CHAPTER 2 OVERVIEW
Business-Class Comfort
Photo credit: Delta Air Lines
What can business-class passengers expect for the money they have paid for their business-class tickets? How does it feel to fly in the business-class salons in the sky?
This Chapter covers the evolution of the business-class experience. What passengers experience today in Business Class started as a simple concept of providing more space and comfort during air travel. Today, Business Class offers much more than just extra legroom.
Readers will embark on an enlightening journey through the evolution of business-class travel, from the early days of its inception to its status today as an indispensable facet of global business operations. This Chapter meticulously details how Business Class has morphed from offering mere comfort and convenience into a critical resource that facilitates international business endeavors and fortifies partnerships across borders. Through authoritative insights and engaging narratives, the book presents the extensive amenities and unparalleled services that define the business-class experience, illustrating why it extends beyond just extra recline and refined dining options. Prepare to be immersed in the sophisticated world of business-class comfort that world-trekking workers deem essential for their success in the global marketplace.
WELCOME TO THE BUSINESS CLASS CABIN
Photo credit: Delta Air Lines |
When customers buy Business Class tickets, they expect to be able to travel in comfort. In the business-class cabin, they want to feel free to manage their flying time effectively, and to do this, they require a reasonable amount of space where they can work, sleep, eat and relax.
In this illuminating Chapter, Readers will gain insight into the evolution of the Business Class cabin toward greater luxury, exploring how airlines have meticulously crafted an oasis of comfort and utility above the clouds. From the genesis of dedicated business-class seating sections in the 1980s to the modern marvels of today, investigate the intricate details of seat design and spacing that elevate the travel experience. Airlines have made a commitment to meet and exceed the high expectations of business travellers, offering a blend of privacy, space, and service that can transform the aerial journey into a productive and restful experience. Delve into the details that make Business Class not just a seat, but a premium experience that is greater than just ‘more legroom.’
Following the product breakthroughs in the first-class market during the 1990s (see Chapter 1/First-Class Luxury), it was inevitable that Business Class would be affected and that the major airlines would have to adopt a fresh approach to their product positioning. Early in the 1990s, KLM, Northwest and SAS ceased to offer dedicated first-class service and launched new-style ‘two-class’ operations. Over the course of the decade, hybrid products that blurred the boundaries between the old First Class and Business Class cabins evolved in the form of, for example, Premier Class at Aer Lingus, Magnifica Class at Alitalia, Grand Class at Austrian Airlines and BusinessFirst at Continental. Seats in these Business Class cabins were usually configured 2+2+2 or 2+3+2 so that no one had to step past more than one passenger in order to get to the aisle. During that time, companies tended to ban first-class travel privileges for all but their top executives. But with the introduction of Business Class, all that was about to change.
Photo credit: Continental |
In this section, Readers follow the game-changing shifts in the airline industry’s approach, spurred by the 1990s’ first-class market upheavals. Discover how major airlines pioneered the transformation from a rigid class system to the contemporary two-class configuration, offering a hybrid of luxury once exclusive to First Class. Learn about the strategic decisions behind the repositioning of Business Class, the revolutionary cabin configurations and the implications for corporate travel policies. This Chapter provides an authoritative and engaging narrative on how Business Class became the preferred choice for today’s business and high-end leisure travelers, making it an essential read for anyone intrigued by the dynamics of luxury air travel.
In the spring of 1999, Delta Air Lines dropped its three-class service and moved to two-class, launching its Business Elite cabin. In this revealing section, readers will be transported back to the pivotal era of the 1990s, where they will discover how the competitive dynamics of airline business-class services evolved dramatically. Specifically, through the lens of Delta Air Lines’ strategic overhaul in 1999, the Chapter presents the cutting-edge innovations and deliberate enhancements that set new standards in business-travel comfort and luxury. Delve into the details of the development of Delta’s Business Elite cabin transformation, a move that not only challenged the status quo but also redefined the future of air travel. Prepare to be enlightened by the behind-the-scenes decisions that propelled Delta to its mission of being ‘Simply the Best’, setting a new benchmark for the industry.
CUSTOMER BENEFITS ANALYSIS
Photo credit: Etihad |
During the 1990s, a number of carriers added special refinements to their Business Class cabins. In this Chapter, Readers will discover the pioneering advancements in business-class travel during the transformative 1990s. From Air France’s innovative, high-tech bars to ANA’s unique blend of comfort and connectivity with their sit-down bar counters and business corners equipped with onboard fax service on the Boeing B747, the changes to business air travel is meticulously catalogued. This detailed exploration not only highlights the enhancements in passenger experience but also showcases the competitive spirit and ingenuity of carriers in elevating Business Class to new heights.
In this Chapter you will learn about Business Class travel including:
- the importance of time and comfort for business travelers;
- the evolution of Business Class amenities such as wider seats, increased legroom and enhanced food and beverage options;
- how Business Class has become a vital tool for businesses to conduct global operations and maintain successful partnerships;
- the shift from traditional three-class airlines to two-class operations with hybrid products that blur the boundaries between; and
- the history and transformation of Business Class, delving into the societal and economic shifts that facilitated its development.
THE EVOLUTION OF THE BUSINESS CLASS SEAT
If you are reading this in Business Class, you may be sitting in a seat that has been designed over decades of innovation and refinement to put you at ease. Throughout this section of insightful exploration into Business Class, Readers will uncover a detailed history that stretches back to the 1980s, witnessing the transformation of a luxurious upgrade into an indispensable aspect of modern air travel. Innovations in seat design, onboard amenities and service offerings have not only increased comfort but also enhanced the ability of business travellers to work efficiently while on the move. This segment illuminates the pivotal role of Business Class in fostering global business operations and partnerships, showcasing its progression from a symbol of luxury to a crucial tool for international commerce. Prepare to be taken on a fascinating journey that highlights how Business Class has become a game-changer in the air travel industry.
Photo credit: Pan Am/George Design Studio
DISCOVER THE WORLD OF COMMERCIAL AIRLINER INTERIORS ON YOUR IOS, KINDLE AND/OR ANDROID-BASED MOBILE DEVICE
In this comprehensive Chapter, Readers are invited on an insightful voyage through the evolution of Business Class travel, a segment that has reshaped the landscape of modern air travel. From the historical roots in the 1980s, through the pivotal 1990s, to the luxurious present, we explore how airlines have innovatively transformed Business Class cabins into sophisticated environments that cater to the demands of global business operations and high-end leisure travel alike. Delve into the meticulous enhancements in seat design, onboard amenities, and service excellence that have redefined the passenger experience and set a new benchmark in air travel. Discover the strategic shifts that enabled this evolution, including the move from three-class to two-class services, and how these changes have influenced corporate travel policies. This Chapter will bolster your understanding of Business Class travel’s crucial role in connecting the world, making it an indispensable read for enthusiasts of aviation history, business travellers and anyone fascinated by the luxury of flight.
This Chapter is accompanied by the following exclusive content:
• Business Class Picture Gallery
• PrivatAir Case Study
JETLINER CABINS:
Evolution & Innovation
Click to buy the
interactive E-BOOK.
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Chapter 4 OVERVIEW
AERO IDENTITY
Photo credit: Lufthansa
What are the benefits that airlines that derive from their identity schemes and corporate branding programmes (CBPs)? Why are they important? This Chapter will answer the question: How can added value be communicated within the passenger cabin?
AIRLINE BRANDS & BRANDING
When it comes to CBPs for airlines, it’s no longer just a matter of aesthetics. In this Chapter, Readers will learn how CBPs have become an essential part of an airline’s overall marketing strategy. With the rise of major alliances in the 1990s, airlines have been working towards harmonizing standards and resources to provide seamless service to passengers. From joint supply chains to cost savings, the industry has come a long way in optimizing efficiency. However, despite this progress, passengers have yet to see a unified display of decor schemes for co-operating airlines. Instead, airlines have been focusing on upgrading and clarifying their individual company images. This Chapter delves into the importance of a good CBP and how it can help airlines stand out in the competitive market. Readers will discover the key components of a successful CBP and the benefits it can bring, such as greater customer loyalty and a healthier bottom line. In today’s world, a strong CBP is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.
Photo credit: Swoop
This Chapter provides valuable insights into the importance of corporate branding programmes (CBPs) for organizations in the aviation industry. Readers will learn that CBPs are not just about the cosmetic aspects of visual presentation but also serve as a strategic tool for managing change in the marketplace. Effective CBPs communicate the character, goals, values, and market positioning of the parent organization, represent consistent standards of quality and employee behavior, and clearly state what the organization is and what it plans to become. Readers will also discover that planning a CBP requires compliance with technical regulatory and safety certification requirements while achieving a practical level of design consistency and commonality across the key visual aspects of the business operation. Without a CBP, organizations risk becoming a nonentity, losing business opportunities, and facing a competitive disadvantage. This Chapter underscores the urgency and importance of embarking on a CBP and highlights the potential benefits for organizations in the aviation industry seeking to differentiate themselves from competitors.
Readers will discover the essential steps for setting up a successful CBP in the aviation industry. Starting with the crucial role of top management in defining and promoting the organization’s vision, mission and objectives, the Chapter dives into the key stages of CBP implementation. From the involvement of advertising and design agencies to the in-house departments’ responsibilities for safety compliance and communication with stakeholders, it provides a comprehensive roadmap for a certifiable and maintainable CBP. With insights into budgeting, time frames and action plans, the Chapter recounts the necessary steps for launching a successful CBP. It also emphasize the importance of communication with regulatory authorities, customers, investors, shareholders, media and other influential stakeholders. Taking decisive action and establishing a robust CBP will enhance an organization’s reputation and success.
Marketing Challenge (1:28)
A look at how jetliner cabin designers are implementing solutions to the challenges of increased passenger numbers, longer flights, sustainability and non-stop, brutal competition across the airline industry.
Furthermore, Readers will gain insights into the often-overlooked world of aircraft-interior design. While advertisements and travelers focus so much on logos on aircraft tails and fuselage exteriors, the unique challenges of bringing individuality to the cabin interior are taken for granted, but not in this book. The Chapter explores how some airlines, such as Hawaiian Airlines and South African Airlines, have integrated symbols and colours of their homelands into their interior design schemes. This Chapter makes a persuasive case for the importance of interior design in creating a memorable and enjoyable flying experience.
THE AIRLINE BRANDING JOURNEY
Photo credit: British Airways
This Chapter will guide Readers through the development of one of the most comprehensive and expensive CBPs in aviation history. The example of British Airways during the mid-1980s provides valuable insights into the importance of a distinctive and fully coordinated brand image across an entire organization. Readers will learn about the objectives of the working brief issued to advertising and design agencies, including the creation of a corporate identity that would make the airline stand out in the world marketplace, reflecting a new customer-service orientation in terms of colour and warmth, communicating a sense of professionalism and precision based on the strength of the airline’s technical expertise, and demonstrating pride of origin as the British national flag-carrier. The programme was developed in conjunction with Landor Associates, a US-based design company, and this Chapter demonstrates the key factors that contributed to the success of this collaboration. A well-executed CBP can pay tremendous dividends, particularly during periods of significant change or uncertainty.
When it comes to branding, airlines need to connect with their customers to survive in today’s challenging market. You will learn how successful airlines like Southwest and Virgin Atlantic have built strong brand loyalty through effective communication of their brand identities. However, the rise of online distribution has threatened individual airline identities, as buyers focus solely on the cheapest fares. This means that airlines must work harder than ever to differentiate themselves and communicate their unique brand positioning and style. Readers will discover why it is more important than ever for airlines to stand out and connect with their customers, and how they can achieve this through effective branding strategies.
In my design experience with Braniff, Air Florida, Pan Am, Saudia and BWIA, I have found that the marketing and corporate-identity programmes are driven by competition. The corporate desire to improve and differentiate the product since deregulation has been forced by the severe route competition. The birth of colour, drama and flair in air travel came about through the imagination of Mary Wells and her advertising team at the Jack Tinker Agency. The concept was initially presented to Continental, which had introduced multi-class cabins and had a reputation for innovative marketing. When Continental decided not to move ahead with the concept, Harding Lawrence, new at Braniff, seized the opportunity to make a small regional carrier into a major force on the north–south routes...
In developing this programme and its successors for more than 20 years, I found that our familiarity with all levels of personnel, management, engineering and manufacturers helped my team to respond with unique and new innovations. For example, the introduction of leather in First Class, and subsequently in Economy Class, had the benefit of providing the passenger with a luxury feel and the smell of a Mercedes, and allowed the airlines to lower their maintenance needs and eliminate the headrest covers. Every item the passenger touched or used inflight was reviewed for improvement, subject to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval and to Boeing or Airbus engineering constraints. Prior to these innovations, it was the aircraft manufacturer that designed cabin interiors, and it was the airline purchasers who had to press for new and innovative solutions to satisfy their own customers. Today, most major carriers have in-house design professionals or outside consultants to develop co-ordinated corporate-identity programmes that include all aircraft livery. Many carriers today have developed wild and crazy aircraft exterior markings to establish market identity, ideas that probably came from their advertising-agency art departments. What has brought about the greying down of most aircraft interior livery? It seems to be playing to the lowest common denominator of passenger perceptions. Where, pray tell, is the idea that colour enlivens our environment and lifts our spirits for the journey? Not all passengers are going to business meetings.
Photo credit: Air India
This Chapter is accompanied by the following exclusive content:
• Bag Tags Picture Gallery
• Timetables/Configurations Picture Gallery
• Concorde Unique Case Study
• Pan Am Blue Case Study
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Chapter 5 OVERVIEW
SKY LIGHTS
Photo credit: Qatar Airways
Cabin lighting systems have become very sophisticated, giving airline passengers more freedom to exercise control over their immediate surroundings. What has been the impact of this democratization process on the overall passenger experience?
Of all of the important innovations in the airline industry, lighting is one of the greatest achievements, for many reasons. In this Chapter, Readers will learn about the evolution of cabin-lighting systems in the aviation industry. In the early days, airlines used household-style incandescent light bulbs, but they have since transitioned to using high-tech options such as halogen bulbs, electroluminescence, fibre optics and LEDs. However, the change to newer technology has not been without its challenges, as demonstrated by the difficulty passengers with disabilities face when accessing individual reading lights activated using overhead push-button switches. To overcome this challenge, touch-pad controls were introduced on the top surface of armrests, but this led to unintended activation of switches and complaints from passengers about lost personal storage space. As a result, passenger control pads were later installed vertically on the inner surfaces of armrests or seat side panels. Despite these advances in cabin lighting design, some passengers continue to face challenges in adjusting the recline mechanism and requesting assistance from flight attendants.
SHINE THE LIGHT
One development highlighted in this Chapter is the individual gooseneck reading lights in First and Business Class cabins. Readers will learn how British Airways pioneered this feature in 1995, leading to a wave of upgrades across the airline industry. This Chapter explores the benefits of having individual lights at each seat position and how they give passengers greater control over their personal space.
Photo credit: Air France
MOOD-LIGHTING PROGRAMMES
Photo credit: Virgin Australia |
Explore the exciting new developments in the field of ‘mood lighting’ for commercial aircraft. Readers will learn how lighting can be customized to create welcoming entryways, flattering lavatories and illuminated handrails for safety. The Chapter also discusses the importance of individually controlled passenger lighting for enjoying the inflight entertainment system without getting sore eyes, and for relaxing, working, eating and sleeping soundly. The use of imaginative lighting can create memorable effects for informational displays, business centers, duty-free shops and cocktail bars. The trend in the aviation industry is moving toward enhancing the passenger experience by creating environments that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. The future of commercial aviation is looking brighter and more welcoming than ever before. Learn how it started and how it has evolved into a major positive contributor to your flight experience!
Get ready to experience a new era of flying with the latest lighting technology that will transport you to a realm of romance and adventure. In this Chapter of the book, Readers will learn how Virgin Atlantic pioneered a state-of-the-art lighting system that changes the mood throughout the flight, reflecting the different stages of the flight experience from dawn to dusk and from restaurant to lounge. The lighting programmes complement the aircraft’s livery paint scheme, featuring shades of metallic silver, purple, and red, providing a completely integrated feel. Readers will also learn how other carriers have developed individual lighting programmes, offering endless options, including auras of luminosity in passionate purple and bubblegum pink. Imagine slowly going to sleep or waking up to lighting simulating a 15-minute-long mountain sunset or sunrise. Get ready to be amazed at the new light emitting diodes (LEDs) and fibre-optic installations that provide a smooth fade down to less than 1 per cent of the total strength of the lights. Mood-lighting programmes are available as standard options on new-production aircraft types, and special lighting settings for passenger boarding, meal times, sleeping, waking, disembarkation, and more can be controlled by flight attendants on board the aircraft.
LIGHTEN UP
Photo credit: Turkish Airlines |
This Chapter discusses the importance of safety in aircraft lighting, as well as the management of natural light in the cabin. Readers will discover how non-emergency lighting treatments can be carefully handled without compromising safety lighting and emergency escape-path lighting installations.
The Chapter also explores how airlines manage variations in natural light on certain routes at certain times of the day by closing window shades for the greater part of the flying hours. Readers will explore new aircraft types, such as the Boeing B787 Dreamliner, that have dimmable cabin window panes, giving passengers more control over the amount of light they prefer. Finally, Readers will be introduced to innovative lighting technologies that allow airlines to customize their aircraft interiors in exciting ways.
To summarize, the evolution of cabin lighting systems in the aviation industry has come a long way, from basic reading lights to customizable mood lighting programmes. With safety and passenger comfort being top priorities, airlines continuously strive to enhance the flying experience through innovative lighting technology. From individual control pads to dimmable windows, passengers now have more control over their personal space and can enjoy a more pleasant journey.
This Chapter is accompanied by the following exclusive content:
• Cabin Lighting Picture Gallery
JETLINER CABINS:
Evolution & Innovation
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interactive E-BOOK.
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CHAPTER 8 OVERVIEW
Accessibility: Special Needs
Photo credit: American Airlines
How can air travel be made more comfortable for a growing class of passengers with special needs?
Embark on a journey of understanding and empathy, focussing on accessibility and special needs in the aviation industry. This Chapter sheds light on the challenges faced by passengers with disabilities. Discover the progress made in ensuring better access in air travel, both in airports and onboard aircraft. Readers will come to understand the importance for passengers of thoughtful assistance at key transition points. Taking into consideration the unique needs of passengers helps an airline expand the overall customer base. The Chapter concludes with a fascinating exploration of future challenges and opportunities in creating aircraft and airport environments that are not just comfortable, but can adapt to individual needs and preferences. Dive in to explore the intersection of air travel and accessibility.
Subjects include:
- the current state of accessibility in air travel;
- challenges faced by passengers with disabilities;
- progress made in public spaces;
- dissatisfaction in the aviation sector;
- the importance of thoughtful assistance at key transition points;
- understanding the unique needs of passengers to expand the overall customer base; and
- future challenges and opportunities for creating adaptable aircraft and airport environments.
Photo credit: Fly Jamaica Airways |
Moving towards a more inclusive and sustainable future for air travel requires prioritizing accessibility and special needs. By understanding the challenges faced by passengers with disabilities and taking steps towards improving access, we not only create a more comfortable and accommodating experience for these individuals, but also open up opportunities for growth across the industry.
Passengers are scrutinizing the design of jetliner cabins as airlines and airports move ahead with innovations to cope with the problems created by the Covid-19 pandemic. The great challenge for airlines is to reassure passengers that they are flying in a clean, safe and healthy environment — and to provide proof of same. This is especially important for passengers with special needs, who may have compromised immune systems.
Photo credit: EVA Air |
Though improvements to public spaces have made them more accessible for individuals with special needs, air travel still presents unique challenges. From navigating security checkpoints and boarding processes to accessing restrooms and seating on the plane, there are multiple occasions when passengers with disabilities may face difficulties. Accessibility not only benefits passengers with special needs, but also has positive effects on the overall customer experience. By understanding and catering to the unique needs of all individuals, airlines can expand their customer base and create a more diverse and inclusive community.
This Chapter is accompanied by the following exclusive content:
• EXPO 2019: Special Needs Case Study
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Chapter 13 OVERVIEW
UPGRADES: REFURBISHING ALOFT
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Photo credit: Alaska Airlines |
Some people cite the ‘House-Renovation Rule’: it will cost twice as much — and take three times as long — as you first thought it would. Others say that upgrades constitute the Royal Road that will eventually lead to true product perfection. But in the end, strictly mandated regulatory requirements govern all stages of the decision-making process.
Discover the behind-the-scenes work that goes into enhancing the inflight experience! This Chapter delves into the constant upgrade and refurbishment programs that airlines implement to provide top-notch customer service and meet heightened safety and security requirements. Learn about major upgrades, such as strengthening cockpit doors and complying with the mandated 16 g standard for seats, which involves a rigorous forward-direction dynamic test. Additionally, find out about the often-overlooked crew rest accommodations, which have been repeatedly upgraded as flights have extended to longer distances and labour contracts have mandated rest periods for crew members.
INNOVATIVE DESIGN
Upgrade and refurbishment programmes can be costly, but there are ways to make changes that comply with budget limitations. This Chapter outlines multiple categories of upgrades, ranging from minor changes, such as soft furnishings and accessories, to large-scale upgrades that can cost millions of dollars. The main focus is on cost-effectiveness and good financial housekeeping, using up existing supplies before introducing new items. Logistics departments play a crucial role in planning and executing these upgrades, including phasing out old items and introducing new ones. This Chapter provides valuable insights and practical tips for airlines looking to upgrade their inflight offerings, including how to gather market feedback and make changes on a budget. It takes careful planning and execution for airlines to transform the inflight experience for their customers.
Readers will discover the innovative design and luxurious features of Japan Airlines’ Skysleeper Solo, a first-class seat that revolutionized air travel comfort in the early 2000s. Through the expertly crafted words of acclaimed designer Ross Lovegrove, Readers will learn how the Skysleeper Solo’s sensual, body-hugging curves were inspired by the natural world, and how it was designed to provide ultimate relaxation and privacy for passengers. Technical details and measurements are provided, showcasing the seat’s impressive dimensions when fully reclined. Readers will also be told how Japan Airlines decreased the number of seats in the cabin to provide a more spacious layout and how the Skysleeper Solo won the prestigious Japan Industrial Design Council ‘Good Design Award’ in 2002. This Chapter is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of air travel luxury and comfort. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to delve into the world of the Skysleeper Solo and its revolutionary impact on the airline industry.
Photo credit: Japan Airlines
Cabin Maintenance (1:33)
Review the processes and materials that ensure the airworthiness of jetliner cabins, compliance with safety regulation requirements and a functioning and hygienic aircraft interior.
AIRCRAFT INTERIOR REFURBISHMENT
This comprehensive guide of aviation innovation and refinement is carefully constructed to illuminate the meticulous processes behind transforming airline fleets into marvels of modern design and comfort. This Chapter gives a behind-the-scenes look at executing successful refurbishment and upgrade programmes, balancing cost-effectiveness with luxurious design. Both professionals in the aviation field and enthusiasts eager to understand the future of air travel will benefit from this unparalleled look into the precision and innovation driving airline industry advancements. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert insights and potentially transform your own projects. Download the E-BOOK today and take the first step towards the forefront of airline design and service excellence!
Photo credit: Emirates
This Chapter is accompanied by the following exclusive content:
- Inflight Entertainment (IFE) Systems Guest Essay
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Evolution & Innovation
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CHAPTER 15 OVERVIEW
GREEN ADVANCES: SUPERIOR INTERIORS
Photo credit: GETTY
Climate Action, flight shaming, trains-over-planes laws, and sustainability. While activists and politicians focus on carbon-dioxide (CO2) emissions, they may be missing the bigger picture.
This Chapter of JETLINER CABINS: Evolution & Innovation explores the multiple strategies that aircraft designers and airline brand managers have employed to make the aircraft cabin a greener space.
Unlock the future of green travel in this pivotal Chapter, which highlights the revolutionary strides the airline industry has made towards sustainability. Discover how the relentless pursuit of reducing carbon emissions has led to cutting-edge innovations in aircraft interiors and operations. From the widespread adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) to the carbon neutrality pledges of the world’s leading airlines, this chapter details the ground-breaking efforts and collaborative initiatives that are setting the stage for a more sustainable future in air travel. Readers will be inspired by the optimism and urgency driving the aviation sector to not only envision but also achieve a greener and more sustainable horizon. As we fly towards 2050, learn about the systematic steps and innovative strategies making sustainable flying not just a possibility, but a reality.
SUSTAINABILITY AND AIR TRAVEL
Photo credit: International Air Transport Association (IATA) |
Statistics issued by the United Nations (UN) show that the agricultural, industrial and transport sectors each produce approximately 14 per cent of human-induced global carbon emissions. Airlines account for about 2.5 per cent of global carbon emissions. Maritime shipping, which transports approximately 80 per cent of world trade, accounts for nearly 3 per cent of global carbon emissions.
In this enlightening Chapter, Readers will explore the innovative world of sustainable air travel. Passengers are standing at the brink of a revolution, where the urgency to protect our planet meets the ingenuity of human potential. Discover how trailblazers in the industry are pioneering eco-friendly technologies. Learn how airlines and stakeholders worldwide are joining forces to implement greener practices, reducing carbon footprints without sacrificing the enjoyment and necessity of global connectivity. This Chapter is a call to action and a beacon of hope for travelers who believes in the power of change and the urgent need to act now for our planet’s future.
Over the past 40 years, aircraft have become 70 per cent more fuel efficient. Discover the ingenious innovations and strategies employed by the aviation industry to combat rising fuel costs and global economic challenges. This captivating Chapter explains the shift towards Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which marks a pivotal moment in the industry’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions. With a focus on the inspiring work of eco-czars, emissions specialists and green teams, Readers will learn how major airlines are not only adapting to ecological demands but are leading the charge in ushering in a new era of environmentally conscientious travel.
Photo credit: Jet Airways
This Chapter presents green advances in jetliner cabins, which are of vital importance to the future of the industry, including:
- the use of sustainable materials;
- energy-efficient systems;
- the introduction of smart controls to reduce energy consumption;
- changes to the galley and food services;
- design techniques that optimize space for more efficient seating configurations; and
- sustainable catering options.
THE GREEN SCENE
Over many years, airlines have been implementing a range of hands-on green upgrades which would not be immediately recognizable to the average passenger. The Chapter highlights the growing trend among airlines to adopt sustainable practices and promote environmentally-friendly initiatives to their passengers.
Photo credit: E-Leather
Readers will uncover the dynamic shift towards sustainability within the airline industry, learning how pioneering airlines are leading the charge with carbon offset campaigns and other green upgrades, ingeniously designed yet not always readily apparent to passengers. This segment explains how these initiatives are fostering a global culture of environmental responsibility among passengers.
Numerous significant enhancements have been introduced industry-wide. The Chapter features amazing advancements that are revolutionizing the aviation industry, from cutting-edge manufacturing techniques to sustainable refurbishment practices. Readers will see that these innovations are not just reshaping how aircraft are built and maintained, but are also leading the charge towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future for commercial aviation. Be inspired by the significant strides being made, and discover the potential these developments hold for shaping a greener, more efficient world of air travel.
Photo credit: Neutral Digital
The Chapter also illuminates the cutting-edge green methodologies that the airline industry has diligently applied to cabin interiors. From the innovative use of bio-based materials to the incorporation of energy-saving systems, each strategy underscores the industry’s commitment not only to enhancing passenger experience but also to protecting our environment. These endeavors showcase a conscientious shift towards sustainability, affirming the airline sector’s role as a proactive steward of our planet’s future. Join us as we explore these green milestones, offering both inspiration and a roadmap for sustainable practices within and beyond the aviation world.
Photo credit: Lufthansa Technik, AG
JETLINER CABINS:
Evolution & Innovation
Click to buy the
interactive E-BOOK.
ISBN 0-979-8-218-33203-7
Case Study OVERVIEW
CONCORDE UNIQUE
Photo Credit: British Airways
Concorde Unique (1:47)
Experience what few could, the much-emulated interior cabin and luxury service of the (so far) only supersonic passenger jetliner, Concorde.
Photo credit: British Airways
Photo credit: J. Clay Consulting
Photo credit: British Airways
In this enlightening Case Study about Concorde, Readers will delve into the unparalleled experience of flying on the world’s first and (so far) only successful supersonic passenger airliner. The Case Study describes the interior design features that made this aircraft unique, such as its compact cabin size and streamlined aesthetics. Learn about the luxurious onboard services that included gourmet meals, and see images of the breathtaking views of the Earth’s curvature. This Case Study includes information about exclusive uniforms designed for flight attendants and the steps taken to maintain an elite travel environment. It also discusses the safety modifications implemented after a devastating crash and the subsequent cessation of this legendary airliner’s operations. Though Concorde flies no longer, Readers can still appreciate its lasting legacy in aviation history.
Subjects include:
- introduction to Concorde;
- cabin-interior design features;
- onboard services: luxury and views;
- elite uniforms for flight attendants;
- safety modifications and retirement; and
- Concorde’s legacy in aviation history.
With its sleek design and record-breaking speed, Concorde provided an unparalleled experience for passengers. But beyond its impressive technical achievements, Concorde also boasted special interior-design features that set it apart from any other aircraft. Flying Concorde was truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
Readers will embark on an exploration of the remarkable achievements and enduring influence of Concorde. While the Concorde may no longer grace the skies, its story will continue to soar for generations to come.
Photo credit: Air France
Photo credit: British Airways Concorde. Adrian Meredith Photography
JETLINER CABINS:
Evolution & Innovation
Click to buy the
interactive E-BOOK.
ISBN 0-979-8-218-33203-7
