Remember the Chair seating concept unveiled by Lufthansa Technik at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2015 and which was shortlisted for a Crystal Cabin Award? The VIP concept seems to be approaching reality as, according to the company, it has successfully completed 16g and 9g ETSO/TSO certification testing of the seat for forward- and aft-facing installations.
The Chair is based on a pedestal design upon which is mounted a baseline core skeleton or structure. This certified pedestal and structure is intentionally left incomplete, allowing designers to create a chair to meet the particular needs of a particular cabin, whether it is used as a dining room, video lounge, office, bedroom, etc. Not only the height, width, and depth, but also the overall look and feel of the seat can be configured, including the shape, upholstery, and padding, under one certification.
The certification process allows Lufthansa Technik to validate changes to the Chair without intensive re-testing. Testing was designed and passed to maximum dynamic load
cases. This enables changes to be classified as minor deviations under the umbrella of an existing ETSO/TSO.