BermudAir, the premium carrier based in Bermuda, has decided to alter its business model and offer two seating classes instead of solely business class [5cd38f78]. The airline initially planned to launch with an all-business class configuration but faced supply chain delays, leading to the decision to introduce 'aisle class' and economy class options [5cd38f78]. The CEO of BermudAir, Adam Scott, stated that the change was made in response to guest feedback and the desire for more options and flexibility [5cd38f78]. The retrofitting of the cabin with twin-class seating is scheduled to take place in the fourth quarter, with business class seating expected to be introduced by the end of 2023 [5cd38f78]. Despite some controversy surrounding the decision, BermudAir aims to focus on year-round operations and growth in the United States market [5cd38f78]. Currently, the airline offers three ticketing options: economy light, classic, and flex. The upcoming business class upgrade will provide premium passengers with larger luggage allowances and more flexible booking options [5cd38f78]. While the airline has experienced early successes, it has no immediate plans for further expansion and will concentrate on its East Coast operations. However, future growth may involve expanding the fleet and targeting new markets [5cd38f78].
In a related development, LATAM Airlines is investing $15 million per aircraft to renovate economy cabins on Boeing 787 Dreamliners [dde4b8b7]. The upgrades will include a bigger entertainment library, new upholstery made with recycled leather, and sustainable seat materials [dde4b8b7]. Passengers will also have Bluetooth connectivity, more in-flight entertainment options, and access to the region's largest library of content [dde4b8b7]. The investment in cabin renovations is part of LATAM's business growth strategy, which includes expanding network offerings and increasing passenger numbers [dde4b8b7]. The airline recently announced nonstop flights from Sydney to Santiago, Chile, and is ready to compete with Qantas on this route [dde4b8b7]. In the first quarter of 2024, LATAM carried 20.2 million passengers, a 19.4% increase from the previous year, and recorded a profit of $582 million in 2023, driven by strong passenger demand [dde4b8b7]. The group added several new routes and increased its fleet by 30 aircraft last year [dde4b8b7].
Additionally, Toyota has designed comfortable airline seats for the Corolla Airline [d435a681]. The seats are equipped with adjustable headrests, lumbar support, and ample legroom [d435a681]. Passengers will also have access to USB ports and power outlets for charging devices [d435a681]. The Corolla Airline aims to provide a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience to its passengers [d435a681]. The seats are expected to be installed in the airline's fleet by the end of the year [d435a681].
Air4All, a consortium designing a wheelchair seating system for aircraft, is showcasing a new economy class version of their wheelchair restraint system at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg [87acc508]. The economy Air4All flips up the aisle seat and the seat immediately adjacent to enable a wheelchair to be secured using the same system as the recliner version [87acc508]. The addition of the economy version allows more wheelchair-using passengers to travel in their own chairs [87acc508]. Nigel Smith, managing director and head of design at SWS Certification Services, explains that the Air4All seat will have a seatback design that will 'delethalize' the impact surface area for the occupant behind and have suitable flexibility within the structure to help attenuate the head impact [87acc508]. The first generation recliner version is progressing towards certification and commercialization [87acc508]. Delta Flight Products has made enhancements to the domestic US first class option based on feedback received from stakeholders and Delta's Advisory Board on Disability [87acc508]. The consortium is planning to achieve TSO certification by the end of 2024 or the beginning of 2025 [87acc508]. The Air4All wheelchair seating system aims to expand safe and comfortable travel for wheelchair users [87acc508].
Accessibility products were showcased at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Germany. Delta Flight Products presented two seats that allow wheelchair users to remain in their own wheelchairs during the flight, as well as an accessible lavatory. The lavatory can accommodate an onboard wheelchair and up to two attendants. The expo is an annual show that highlights the latest products and developments in aircraft interiors.