Airlines compete in showcasing best-in-class design, with a focus on optimising space and using optimal materials
Walls and ceilings use curved panels to maximize headroom. Passenger seats are staggered for more privacy and space efficiency, and overhead compartments are optimised to fit in as much luggage as possible.
These may all seem obvious, but there are also other interior design features which travellers might not notice:
- Lightweight materials such as carbon fiber reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency
- Self cleaning surfaces and materials (e.g. Boeing’s UV-light sanitation kills 99.9% of bacteria)
- Soundproofing panels reduce cabin noise and improve sleep quality
- Simulating sunrises and sunsets with mood lightning helps prevent jet lag
- Electrochromic glass can adjust tint to reduce glare, such as found in Dreamliners
Award-winning airline interior designs
Airlines compete over their interior designs, to offer a mix of advanced technology, comfort and luxury:
- Airlines – Airbus A380 Suites: Private cabins with leather armchairs, double beds, and sliding doors.
- Emirates – Boeing 777 First Class: Virtual windows, fully enclosed suites, and NASA-inspired seating.
- Qatar Airways – Qsuite: The first business class with sliding doors, convertible into a double bed.
- Etihad Airways – The Residence: A three-room suite in the sky with a private shower and butler.
- ANA – “THE Suite” on Boeing 777-300ER: Inspired by Japanese luxury hotels, with privacy doors and widescreen entertainment.
The future of airplane interior design
As technology evolves, so are airplane interiors. Airlines will put more focus on sustainability and innovation, which will be more and more reflected in the future of airplane interior design:
- Biophilic design such as LED lights that simulate natural lightning, organic materials and advanced air filtration that neutralizes bacteria
- AI-enhanced cabins that allow a level of personalisation, such as adjusting the seat, lightning, entertainment control e.g. via voice control
- Recyclable and/or eco-friendly materials
- Flexible and more “community” oriented spaces such as Air New Zealand’s “Skynest”, which offers lie-flat sleeping pods for economy passengers or Virgin Atlantic’s “The Loft” allows Upper Class travelers to socialize mid-flight in a lounge area
Curious what the future of airline design will hold? Pay attention on your next flight, and you might already witness some of the above. Safe travels!
Written with a ♥ for travel