Prominent aircraft interiors specialists receive significant media attention for their cabin innovations. During a ‘media speed networking’ event at the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX), two new seat concepts from relative newcomers garnered interest.
Italy-based Comi Aerospace, a division of the specialized manufacturing group Comi, has developed a new economy class seat aimed at low-cost narrowbody operators. Called Vesta, the seat provides the sensation of a 30” pitch even when pitched at 28”, while maintaining a weight of around 10kg, according to company commercial director Fredrik Meloni.
“Some 90% of the seat is recyclable,” said Meloni.
Australian company SleeperTech showcased two inventions to improve the economy experience. One is an innovative backrest support technology that provides a recline angle of up to 135° and can be retrofitted to existing seat platforms. The other concept is a lightweight articulating headrest that supports the passenger’s neck in multiple directions.
SleeperTech CEO Gordon Croudace stated he was inspired by traditional Chinese pillows with firm but supportive structures fitting into the nape of one’s neck.
Runway Girl Network found SleeperTech’s articulating headrest provided comfort in any position and could move with one’s head. SleeperTech seeks partnerships with seatmakers interested in its patented innovations.
Other firms participated in the networking event as well. Germany’s SkyFive shared updates on its air-to-ground inflight connectivity work across various regions, including deals in the Middle East and potential collaborations with Chinese mobile providers. CEO Thorsten Robrecht mentioned collaboration with Diehl Aviation for IFC solutions for eVTOLs and UAMs.
Turkish company Kordsa is transitioning from phenolic-based volatile chemicals to flame retardant epoxy-based chemicals in cabin interiors, having signed a collaboration pact with FACC.
French firm SECAM introduced an optimized fastening solution for sandwich panels to reduce installation steps. David Rigal, managing director of SECAM Fixing Solutions, explained that their “SECAMnida” solution simplifies the process using an improved insert and crimping tool, eliminating installation tabs.
All images credited to Fintan Horan-Stear
