British Airways unveils redesigned Airbus A320neo cabin at Farnborough Airshow

British Airways has made deliberate choices in seat color, materials, and finish (CMF). The aircraft retains an economy configuration but presents one of the best-looking cabins of its kind. Notably, media photos released earlier this year did not accurately represent the cabin's colors; in person, the red appears as a more elegant burgundy rather than a bright red.

Designers have incorporated a dark blue background element at eye level behind each literature pocket to break up what could otherwise be monotonous rows of greige thermoplastics. Additionally, random pops of red from headrests further disrupt any tunnel effect.

The business class table has been upgraded for better functionality. It now attaches to each armrest and can be stowed under the seat pan. However, some concerns remain about its position and cleanliness.

At the front bulkhead, an updated speedmarque element is set against slightly textured blue thermoplastic. The rear bulkhead features a blue-stained wood effect in a herringbone pattern, providing texture behind narrower 17-inch-wide seats with 28 inches of pitch typical of densified A320 cabins.

The rear bulkhead also houses a split-accessible lavatory combination while offering more maneuverable space in both front and rear lavatories compared to previous generations.

British Airways’ decision to bundle details of this new short-haul cabin within broader "modernization initiatives" earlier this year raises questions. Nevertheless, within its space constraints, this cabin represents a significant improvement over previous generations and positions BA competitively among full-service carriers.

Each seat includes USB A + C charging ports.