Aviation

Lufthansa Technik pre-launches state-of-the-art VIP cabin design for the BBJ 777-9

At the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Lufthansa Technik is presenting a pre-launch of a brand new VIP cabin concept for the Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) 777-9.

The cabin design takes full advantage of the vast space available on the BBJ 777-9, formerly referred to as the BBJ 777X aircraft, and prioritizes versatility and multi-functionality. The design showcases an impressive array of stunning features. It furthermore maximizes space and comfort and incorporates traditional elements of Middle Eastern cultural heritage with a modern twist.

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We are thrilled to unveil our exclusive VIP cabin concept for @Boeing's BBJ 777-9 at #EBACE2023! Stay tuned for the full reveal later this year!https://t.co/pJWW580y1a #keepyouflying pic.twitter.com/rKH2TgTJRN
— Lufthansa Technik (@LHTechnik) May 22, 2023

One of the standout features is the VVIP section at the front with a unique private bedroom that is expandable and highly functional. The detailed design will be revealed later this year. A spacious office and reception area divide the private section from the remaining areas of the aircraft. The cabin also boasts a large majlis, with a design that seamlessly flows throughout the entire cabin. Additionally, the back of the cabin has been designed to transport entourage delegations in style and convenience to cater to the needs of official missions. A special light and window shade concept has been implemented throughout the cabin, giving passengers the feeling of being in their personal living room rather than on a plane at 30,000 feet, particularly important for an ultra-long-range aircraft.

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This cabin design is the first of its kind to be developed using native aircraft data as provided by Boeing. This ensures the feasibility of the design, as the dimensions and space shown are 100 percent accurate.

“We are thrilled to unveil the first insights into this new VIP cabin design for the BBJ 777-9,” said Jan Grube, Sales Director in VIP & Special Mission Aircraft Services at Lufthansa Technik. “Our team’s mission was to create a cabin that is both functional and beautiful, while also meeting the unique needs of our VIP clients in the Middle East. We are confident that this cabin design will set a new standard for VIP aviation, and we look forward to bringing it to market.”

Throughout the year, gradually more areas of the concept will be presented. An animated film and first visual material will be on display by Lufthansa Technik at booth #H72 at this year’s EBACE.

Aviation

Airbus Enhances A350 Cabin with 10-Abreast Seating

Airbus has announced a new partnership with Jiatai Aircraft Equipment, a Chinese aircraft seating manufacturer, to supply upgraded economy-class seats for the A350 widebody series.

This collaboration, unveiled at the 2024 Airshow China, focuses on developing a newly designed economy seat tailored for the A350‘s New Production Standard (NPS) cabin.

One of the key features of the NPS cabin is the ability to accommodate 17-inch wide economy seats, compared to the previous 16.5-inch wide seats that airlines were limited to in the A350’s earlier configurations.

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This change is made possible by the expanded space in the NPS cabin, which is 35 inches longer and 4 inches wider than the previous version. This extra space is achieved by slightly moving the cockpit wall forward and shifting the rear pressure bulkhead back by one frame.

The wider cabin allows airlines to add up to 30 extra economy seats without compromising comfort. For airlines opting for a 3-4-3 seating layout, the 17-inch wide seats are an excellent choice for a more comfortable passenger experience. However, some airlines, such as Iberia, may choose to retain a 9-abreast layout with wider seats for added comfort.

The NPS cabin also offers enhanced flexibility for airline operators. One major advantage is the ability to easily switch between a 9-abreast and 10-abreast seating configuration without requiring significant downtime for aircraft reconfiguration. Airlines can use the same seat rails, tracks, and IFE interfaces, making the transition smoother and quicker.

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In addition, the design of the floor attachments and air-conditioning systems has been optimized for 10-abreast seating, meaning airlines can upgrade their cabins without needing to make substantial modifications to the aircraft’s structure.

Though it’s still unclear when Jiatai’s economy-class seats will be officially added to the A350’s Buyer Furnished Equipment (BFE) catalogue, the collaboration marks a significant step toward enhancing the A350’s cabin offerings.

With this partnership, Airbus is providing more seating options for airlines, ensuring that they can meet diverse customer needs while improving overall operational efficiency.