During the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Airbus introduced new developments in aircraft interiors, emphasizing a first-class suite for the A350-1000. This addition aims to provide more space and luxury for premium travelers. The new suites offer more space than those on the upper deck of an A380. Airbus pointed out the growing industry demand for first-class, illustrating this with Lufthansa's Allegris cabin installed in ten A350-900 aircraft. The suites can be customized to meet the specific needs of airlines.
The announcement also included Airbus plans for the A220 aircraft family, introducing the Airspace cabin starting in early 2026, with Air Canada as the launch customer. This cabin will feature the widest seats, aisle, largest cabin and windows in its class, along with Airspace XL bins that provide 20% more volume and are lighter. Air Canada's Managing Director of Onboard Products, John Moody, expressed enthusiasm about being the launch customer, emphasizing improved passenger space and convenience.
In another announcement, Airbus and Amazon, via its satellite internet project, Project Kuiper, plan to enhance in-flight connectivity through a Memorandum of Understanding. The company's Vice President and Head of the Connected Aircraft Program, Tim Sommer, expressed excitement about this collaboration, noting the potential for new satellite connectivity options to meet increasing onboard internet demands.