Airlines

ATR Unveils Advanced Design of New All-Business Interior

In a significant development at the Aircraft Interiors Expo 2024, ATR has unveiled its cutting-edge All-Business Class configuration, a part of its ATR HighLine collection announced last year.

This innovative interior design, featuring a unique 1-1 layout, aims to redefine luxury in regional air travel. The All-Business Class interior, named ‘ETEREA’, is distinguished by its spacious individual business seats, each offering direct window views and aisle access.

Designed by Geven, these tailor-made seats boast exceptional personal space and privacy, thanks to the ATR’s wider cross-section, which surpasses the comfort levels of narrower regional jets currently in operation.

The ETEREA seats, measuring a generous 21.6 inches in width, provide ample legroom and recline capabilities. Each seat is equipped with a personal side console that functions as both a table and a storage compartment. This thoughtful design maximizes convenience and comfort, catering to the needs of discerning business travelers.

ATR’s All-Business Class interior offers several customization options, including an executive ceiling achieved by removing overhead bins, USB A+C charging ports, in-flight entertainment, high-speed internet access, and premium material finishes. These features collectively create an unparalleled in-flight experience, making regional travel more luxurious and efficient.

Berjaya Air, a Malaysia-based airline, will be the launch customer for the ATR 72-600 HighLine All-Business Class. Starting in 2025, Berjaya Air will deploy two customized aircraft to serve its luxury hotels and resorts. The modification of Berjaya Air’s aircraft will be executed through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC), ensuring the highest standards of safety and performance.

In addition to luxury and comfort, ATR HighLine-equipped aircraft are designed with sustainability in mind. Emitting 45% less CO2 than similar-sized jets, these aircraft are set to revolutionize the regional travel industry by promoting eco-friendly travel solutions and accelerating the decarbonization of regional air mobility.

ATR’s new All-Business Class interior represents a significant leap forward in regional aviation, combining luxury, convenience, and sustainability. With the introduction of the ETEREA seats and the support of launch customer Berjaya Air, ATR is poised to set new standards in the aviation industry, offering an enhanced travel experience for business travelers worldwide.

Airlines

PIA Reinstates Manchester and Paris Routes After EU Ban Lift

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to resume flights to Europe starting in January, beginning with Paris as its first destination.

The decision follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) removal of a long-standing ban on the airline. PIA’s inaugural flight to Paris is scheduled for January 10, with bookings opening on December 9.

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In an official statement, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan confirmed that the first flight schedule has been approved, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s recovery efforts. The EU ban had previously cost PIA approximately Rs40 billion ($144 million) annually in lost revenue, compounding its financial struggles.

With European operations restarting, PIA is now setting its sights on the United Kingdom. The airline plans to seek approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to resume flights to major British cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

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These routes are anticipated to see high demand once necessary clearances are obtained. The lifting of the EU ban represents a key achievement for PIA as it works to rebuild its international network and regain its standing in the global aviation market.

By restoring flights to Europe and aiming for UK destinations, PIA is taking critical steps toward recovering lost ground and improving its financial outlook.