In the process of renewing their fleet to modern A 350 Airbus airplanes, the Hong Kong-based airline Cathay Pacific wanted to redesign its business and premium economy class with us. It was a fascinating challenge that we were glad to take on, particularly because we were able to contribute our experience from the automotive industry to the project – primarily our knowledge about resilient and high-quality materials, but also our expertise in the areas of ergonomics, lightweight construction and safety.

Based on their likewise new brand identity, our choices in colours and materials were inspired by the contrast of elements in nature. The seat covers are a deep aquamarine blue, while the casing for both seat types is a subtle sand tone. We even helped the premium manufacturer rohi develop this exclusive material, with its extremely close-knit weave and durable seams, specifically for this project.

Known for our attention to detail, we made several improvements in the premium economy seats: the storage pouch, where you can easily forget your smartphone, is now designed with transparent frosted plastic.

In addition, there is an extra holder for your phone or tablet. The reading light can be stowed behind the headrest, and it no longer gets in the way when you don’t need it. The control elements for changing the seat position now appear more refined, thanks to the high-quality aluminium we used. We specially redesigned the logos and symbols for this purpose and embossed them into the control buttons.

The mini cocktail table is a particularly charming detail. It smoothly glides out on ball bearings in two levels and provides enough space to put down a glass or cup without crowding one’s seating area like the usual, large fold-out table.

When it comes to Business Class seats, optimal use of space is paramount. We have optimised the layout of the staggered seats to create more space for both passengers and cabin crew. What may seem like a minor detail at first glance actually has a major impact on an airline’s profitability. It was important to us to create maximum seating comfort and an engaging spatial experience for passengers, whilst maintaining a commercially viable seat density.

Furthermore, for the backrest panelling on the Business Class seats, we have replaced a rather industrial-looking design language with a much more homely, furniture-inspired aesthetic. We have achieved this, on the one hand, through softer shapes with smoother transitions between surfaces. On the other hand, a specially developed surface finish has enabled us to create a brushed satin look that captivates with its elegant reflections of light.

The result of the collaboration between Cathay Pacific and Studio F. A. Porsche? The fusion of modern Asian design with European purism has given rise to a fascinating cabin experience featuring exciting design solutions.