April 6, 2017 – Zodiac Seats has launched Optima, a space-efficient business class seat with a unique cabin configuration that mixes in-line and angled seats, without compromising passenger comfort.
Key selling points are direct aisle access for every passenger, large surface areas, extensive stowage options and configurable privacy. The combination of the seating arrangement and electrically actuated privacy screens also make Optima a private environment for travelers wanting to relax in peace, or a more social space for passengers traveling together – indeed a centerline double bed is even possible.
If the seat sounds familiar, that’s because United is fitting a customized version as part of its new Polaris long-haul product (FULL DETAILS HERE). The airline selected the seat largely due to its ‘space neutral’ cabin layout, originally designed by Acumen, which allowed the airline to offer features such as direct aisle access and bed lengths up to 83.5in without losing seat count: and that’s compared to a previous angled lie-flat product.
The modular architecture of Optima means it can be tailored to any airline brand, with a variety of optional product features and customizable areas available to allow customers to inject their brand identity into the seat.