Hawaiian Airlines has always offered a sub-standard lounge experience in comparison to its in-flight product. The lounges are often crowded and offer a limited range of coffee, snacks and POG juice, but little else. So the recent merger with Alaska Airlines has shifted Hawaiian’s ground experience up a gear as it looks to create synergies…
Read More
Etihad Airways is one of the few airlines that allows pre-clearance into the US, meaning that passengers arrive in the US without having to face lengthy queues at immigration. However, this has always meant that prior to departure from Abu Dhabi, passengers have had to face a smaller queue to pass immigration within the airport.…
Read More
The aviation industry is set to soar in 2025 with a host of exciting developments. From innovative new routes to luxurious cabin upgrades, airlines are once again on track to forge brand new travel experiences. As the year comes to a close, we’re looking ahead to 2025 and what advancements we will see and hope…
Read More
Turkish Airlines has launched its Istanbul-Sydney route, initially using the Boeing 777-300ER but now operating with the superior Airbus A350-900. The journey includes a refueling stop in Kuala Lumpur and celebrates exceptional in-flight service, dining, and luxurious lounges in Istanbul. Future plans include nonstop flights, enhancing travel between Europe and Australia.
Read More
LOT Polish Airlines has launched a new business lounge at Chicago O’Hare’s Terminal 5, marking its first investment in North America. Designed for passenger comfort, this stylish space features modern decor, relaxation and work areas, a dining section with Polish cuisine, and advanced technology, including automatic dimming windows and fast Wi-Fi.
Read More
TheDesignAir announced the winners of its 12th annual awards, highlighting achievements in aviation design and passenger experience for 2024. Notable winners include Oman Air for Design Innovation, Cathay as Design Airline of the Year Asia, and Etihad Airways securing the top honour globally. The competition showcased rising startups and innovative designs.
Read More
British Airways is revamping its A380 First Class with a new seat that blends modern design and heritage, inspired by Concorde. Set for a mid-2026 rollout, features include a spacious, flat bed, enhanced privacy, and advanced technology. This upgrade aims to improve passenger experience, while also addressing existing service shortcomings.
Read More
Qantas has unveiled a redesigned Business and Economy Class cabin for its A330 fleet, enhancing comfort for the upcoming Project Sunrise experience. The refurbishment includes larger screens, USB-C charging, and mood lighting. This multimillion-dollar program will renew the fleet starting mid-2025, signaling a shift toward a modern, inviting travel experience.
Read More
LANTAL’s DEEP DYEING technology revolutionizes airline design by allowing for customizable, unique carpets that enhance cabin aesthetics and branding. This innovative approach fosters distinct cabin zones, improving passenger flow and experience while promoting sustainability through efficient production. It empowers airlines to create immersive environments that resonate with their brand identity and values.
Read More
While TheDesignAir Awards 2024 public vote is due to end on the 11th November, there’s still a chance for design studios, airlines and airports to enter our Design Innovation Award which celebrates innovation in the passenger experience field that truly enhances the traveller journey. From new seats to game-changing passenger experience products, sustainable service ware…
Read More
Delta Air Lines has just unveiled its cabin redesign, which will be applied across its entire fleet starting with the airline’s ageing 757s followed by its most modern A350s. The new design showcases a fresh, residential-inspired approach that blends luxury and comfort. The updated interiors feature premium materials, improved ergonomics, and advanced mood lighting to…
Read More
Delta is redefining the luxury airport lounge experience with the grand opening of its Delta One Lounge at LAX, supplementing the already impressive Sky Club situated just next door in Terminal 3. Designed to be a cut above the Sky Club, this exclusive space is designed to serve nearly 200 guests and offers a fully…
Read More
Yes, it’s that time of the year again! We are once again launching this year’s Awards after returning last year. We’ve created our shortlist for the DesignAir Awards 2024 and just like every year, we’ve opened some of the categories to the public. It’s time for you to get involved! Now is your chance to…
Read More
Thompson Aero Seating has officially launched its much-anticipated VantageNOVA (a seat i managed to experience at AIX earlier this year). It’s a premium herringbone seat designed for twin-aisle aircraft. As the latest addition to the successful Vantage seating family, the VantageNOVA aims to revolutionise passenger experience with an innovative blend of comfort, flexibility, and customisation,…
Read More
With yesterday’s announcement, LAX is certainly on the front foot when it comes to new ground experiences. With both the new Air France and now Virgin Atlantic lounges at Los Angeles International Airport and their unique approaches to luxury, functionality, and aesthetics, there’s plenty of choice available now for SkyTeam passengers. Air France Lounge: Classic…
Read More
In order to continue improving its fleet and the onboard experience for passengers, LATAM announced that starting in September, it will begin a refurbishment process for 24 of its Boeing 787 aircraft, with a total investment of US$360m, completely upgrading the cabin interiors with new seats, onboard entertainment, and design enhancements. However instead of kitting…
Read More
Over the decades, airlines across the globe have approached fashion designers to add a bit of creative flair into their brand. So it’s no surprise that start-up Riyadh Air –which plans on setting the bar high – has searched for a couturier to help create the carrier’s very first uniform. And in reality it didn’t…
Read More
Ever since Qatar Airways launched its impressive business class product QSuite a decade ago, most airlines have tried to up their own ante to compete with this incredibly competitive Business Class seat. Not to be outdone, Qatar Airways has just revealed an update to the QSuite which will feature on the airlines new 777-9 which…
Read More
Korean Air is a fairly iconic brand. Its timeless baby blue and white liveries are instantly recognisable. There are very few airlines that can boast such an identifiable ‘blue’ livery. And while the logo itself is somewhat reminiscent of the Pepsi logo, this Taegeuk has a much deeper cultural meaning within Korea stemming back hundreds…
Read More
Delta Air Lines has introduced its first Delta One Lounge at JFK, exclusive for Delta One passengers and certain partners. Spanning over 39,000 square feet, it offers premium amenities including fine dining, spa-like services, and unique design elements inspired by Manhattan. Additional Delta One Lounges are planned to open at LAX and Boston Logan soon.
Read More
Neutral Digital has established itself as a premier 3D studio specializing in CGI for the aviation sector. Over two decades, it has provided airlines with innovative visual solutions, enhancing brand experiences and customer loyalty. By leveraging CGI, airlines gain creative control over imagery, enabling engaging marketing tools that boost revenue and streamline content creation.
Read More
The Aircraft Interiors Expo showcases innovations in airline seating and technology, reflecting a post-COVID resurgence in passenger experience. Despite excitement, airlines face challenges in setting distinct identities and navigating a plethora of choices. Collaboration among suppliers and embracing an open IP approach could enhance future developments in airline interiors, promoting faster innovation and integration.
Read More
West Hollywood is an ideal location for tourists in Los Angeles, with The London hotel standing out for its central position and classic design. Recently renovated, The London features spacious rooms, luxurious amenities, and a rooftop pool with stunning views. Guests enjoy a blend of Hollywood glamour and modern comforts, epitomizing LA’s vibrant essence.
Read More
In many regards, Air France is one of the best First Class experiences currently in the skies. Whilst the seats might not have all the bells and whistles of other more complete suites, the hard product is effortless and when paired with the soft touches, ground product and service, it’s no surprise when anyone mentions…
Read More
Factorydesign is one of the world’s leading aviation design agencies. Based in London it’s been part of some of the most iconic cabin designs and has helped shape today’s passenger experience across the globe. With almost three decades in the industry, I take some time ahead of AIX 2024 to talk with Peter Tennent, one…
Read More
All eyes might have been on DXB the past few weeks as it struggled to deal with epic rains that hit the UAE. To be fair, we don’t think any airport globally could have dealt with such extreme weather conditions, but now all eyes are turning to its sister airport, situated a little closer to…
Read More
The never ending game of cat and mouse between the US3 carriers is playing dividends for the inflight and ground customer experience in the USA. A region that was once a decade behind the rest of the world when it came to cabin interiors, has fast become a hot-bed of creativity and world-standard hard products.…
Read More
This year turning out to be a pretty exciting year for the passenger experience world. While airlines are recording record profits, they are investing heavily into their new aircraft, looking to try and win over market share. Here’s TheDesignAir’s round up of best business class seats you should fly in 2024. 1. Cathay Pacific 777…
Read More
The review highlights an impressive experience with China Airlines, showcasing its distinct design, spacious cabins, and excellent service. Recognized as Design Airline of Asia 2023, it offers a robust route network and innovative features like a sky lounge. The overall journey, from check-in to food, confirms the airline’s high standards.
Read More
Sometimes we see concepts that are so far fetched come across our desks here at TheDesignAir that we know they just simply won’t take flight, but the latest concept that has landed here has certainly piqued our interest. Brought to life by David Caon’s design studio (the very same designer who has his fingerprint all…
Read More