Hong Kong Airlines just received its latest A350, and with it, the next evolution of its premium experience, unveiling a newly upgraded Business Class seat. This new seat rivals that of Cathay Pacific and here at TheDesignAir we actually prefer the Super Diamond product compared to Cathay Pacific’s due to its increased space and storage areas.
In addition to a refreshing new look, designed in-house, the new Business Class seat is also equipped with one of the most advanced IFE systems from Thales Group, providing passengers with “an immersive entertainment during their travels,” as the airline’s press release states.
“A familiar and well-awarded Business Class seat, it promises to provide unparalleled comfort and privacy on even the longest flights. It also maximises space and delivers all the entertainment, dining and relaxation options that travellers expect from an excellent Business Class experience.”
Hong Kong Airlines has quickly been rising up the ranks with the addition of a range of contemporary designer touches such as Club Autus, new tableware and funky amenity kits. These new seats have also been carefully considered, with each of the 33 seats coming with a set of specially designed smooth and soft bedding.
The cabin continues to provide it’s pared back modern and neutral tones however the biggest difference to the business class passenger experience will be found in the seating arrangement, featuring a 1-2-1 configuration. The seat features all the familiar stats such as a 78-inch fully-flat bed and a 17-inch widescreen monitor as well as a touch-enabled integrated handset running the new AVANT system that promises passengers an enhanced entertainment experience inflight.
While there are no plans to retrofit the first 4 aircraft, the 5th signals a new era for the rest of the A350 order. Speaking at a special product showcase event today, Mr. Wang Liya, Hong Kong Airlines Vice Chairman and President said: “Our latest Business Class offering and state-of-the-art inflight entertainment system is the result of an ambitious effort to revamp our premium services for our customers. These are significant investments for the Company, and will help lead Hong Kong Airlines into a new decade of success.”
The airline certainly is quickly becoming a formidable player in Asia especially for Premium passengers. Since taking delivery of its first Airbus A350 aircraft and the opening of Club Autus, Hong Kong Airlines has continued to push for service enhancements for its Business Class offerings. The airline has also worked with great chefs including Hong Kong’s own Gabriel Choy and San Francisco’s Chris Cosentino to put great food in the skies.
But for those wanting to experience the new aircraft cabin, currently the only route to feature the product is Los Angeles which will start next month. However, those wanting to experience the product on a shorter flight prior to that, the airline will deploy the new A350 on the Bangkok route for crew familiarisation during its first month of operation.
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