AliceBluAero, the Northern Ireland-based aircraft seating manufacturer, has announced that it has successfully progressed through the ADOA (Application for Alternative Procedures to Design Organisation Approval) review with the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and has been granted approval to commence dynamic testing of its Quantum SALF seat. Tests are due to begin on 29th July.
“This milestone marks a groundbreaking step as we move into certification testing with the authorities. Reaching this stage is a testament to the extensive work and dedication of our team. Now we have the opportunity to prove ourselves to both the authorities and the industry,” read a company statement.
AliceBluAero is developing three business-class seating models: Quantum for widebody aircraft (Quantum WB), Quantum for single-aisle aircraft (Quantum SALF) and the forward-facing Gemini seat for both widebodies and narrowbodies.
AliceBluAero recently completed the developmental dynamic structural testing for the Quantum SALF seat, meeting all necessary criteria for TSO C127c certification with the UK CAA.
According to the company the results of the initial tests “surpassed expectations”, including Dynamic 16G pitch and roll at + and – 10 degrees, Dynamic 14G Down, and Dynamic 16G for Head Impact Criteria (HIC).
Following the anticipated successful certification testing, AliceBluAero expects to be awarded ADOA by the CAA in August 2024. This approval will enable AliceBluAero to design and certify aircraft seats, culminating in the Quantum SALF seat receiving a UKCAA TSO. The company has stated it expects for the Quantum SALF seat to b certified for use on the Airbus A321neo in Q4 2024.
AliceBluAero is rapidly approaching market readiness, with the company having just received Production Organisation Approval (POA) from the UK CAA in March.
