Airlines

United Airlines debuts Wireless Charging Onboard and New Domestic First Seat

United unveiled a brand-new domestic first-class seat today that features wireless charging ports in each armrest.

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The new United First® seat, which also has vegan leather upholstery, 13-inch seatback screens, 18-inch tray tables, Bluetooth connectivity, privacy screens, and an ergonomically designed cushion, makes its debut on the first 737 this month. Customers will continue to see it roll out this summer. By 2026, 200 domestic aircraft, including 737 NGs, A321neos, and 737 MAXs, are expected to have the new seat, according to the airline.

Customers can take advantage of the following amenities in each brand-new United First seat:

Charge several gadgets at once:
Each seat has one of three types of charging docks: wireless, AC home outlet, and USB-C, allowing passengers to swiftly charge several electronic devices at simultaneously. In order to free up the passenger’s hands and tray table and provide line-of-sight to notifications, the wireless charger has been placed in a compartment of the armrest.

Improved, more spacious seatback entertainment:
United is improving the experience since an increasing number of customers like to use both their personal device and the screen on their seatback at the same time. The high-definition, 13-inch panels are Bluetooth-capable and come with a remote for those who are unable to use the touch screen.

More Space for Work and Relaxation:

Designated space for devices, food, drinks and more make it easier for passengers to enjoy the full experience. A larger, 18 x 8.5 inch tray table features a built-in tablet holder and enough space for most standard laptops. With authentic Italian quartzite cocktail tables and bottle holders between each seat, passengers don’t have to balance gadgets, drinks and snacks on one tray table.

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An improved seat with adjustments:
The 11 x 19-inch partition between neighbours, winged headrests, and tray tables that extend from the outer armrests of the big vegan leather-upholstered seats provide passengers extra privacy. The seat has a 5-inch recline range, an entirely retractable aisle armrest, and a 1-inch-lower seat cushion that was created by an ergonomist to accommodate a wider range of heights.

By 2025, United will update the existing domestic first-class seats on more than 200 aircraft in addition to installing the new ones. On a few 737, A319, and A320 aircraft, United First seats will feature new seat cushions, vegan leather upholstery, and winged headrests.

Airlines

German Carrier Lufthansa Plans for 20% Job Cuts in Administration

Lufthansa Airlines is reportedly planning significant job cuts in its administrative workforce. According to Manager Magazin, the German carrier intends to reduce administrative positions by 20% as part of its cost-cutting measures amidst an anticipated decline in earnings.

This reduction could impact approximately 400 jobs, the report revealed. While Lufthansa has not directly commented on the layoffs, the airline confirmed its goal of cutting administrative costs by 20% by 2028.

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The strategy involves leveraging digital technologies, including artificial intelligence and automation. “A hiring freeze is currently in place for administrative roles at Lufthansa Airlines,” said a company spokesperson.

The staff reduction is expected to occur through natural attrition and age-related turnover, rather than forced layoffs. The internal projection cited by the magazine warns that Lufthansa could face an operating loss of €800 million ($843.92 million) by 2026 if no corrective measures are taken.

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The report highlights the challenges companies face in aligning workforce requirements with current and future demands. Failure to adapt could necessitate drastic actions, such as restructuring and layoffs, which carry significant repercussions for both the organization and its employees.

As Lufthansa navigates these challenges, the airline appears committed to balancing cost efficiency with digital transformation to maintain its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving industry.