Thompson Aero Seating has launched VantageNOVA, its first angled business-class seat for twin-aisle aircraft, which is the newest addition to the company’s Vantage range of aircraft seating. Aircraft Interiors International was the first media outlet to break the story on this seat, in the new September issue.
Offerable from a 40in pitch, the VantageNOVA design allows the cabin to be optimised to the passenger demographic of each airline customer. Airlines also benefit from the flexibility and adaptation factors of the design, with the outboard column able to be configured as herringbone or reverse herringbone, alongside the centre double reverse-herringbone seats.
With the herringbone configuration for the outboard column, the passenger’s head is positioned away from the aisle. There is extended bed-level cushioning, and a floating outboard armrest and cocktail surface.
With the reverse herringbone configuration for the outboard column, the seat faces away from the aisle, with an extended console surface and additional stowages, and an armrest that can be dropped to allow passengers to customise their space.
Whichever configuration is selected, the suites will feature ‘slimline’ single-skin overhung doors designed to maximise interior living space. With the internal face of the door removed, the passenger gains space and the inner area feels larger.
The seats are also available with a Zero-G position, which tilts and elevates the body while raising the legs, which takes the pressure off the heart.
You can see more images of the VantageNOVA seat options HERE.
Ryan Graham, principal designer of strategic development at Thompson Aero Seating said of the suite: “The impetus for the development of the VantageNOVA platform was to explore the wider twin-aisle platforms to achieve a seat-offering with a pitch as low as 40in without compromising the passenger experience. Through the careful crafting of the 40in living space however, we achieved more than just a great high-density product.
“The efficiencies found at 40in are only amplified at more premium pitch ranges, offering a very compelling new product wherever our customers choose to position it. This large pitch range, coupled with the choice between herringbone and reverse herringbone on the outboards, offers our customers the most freedom of choice and maximises our ability to meet any specific requirements we encounter with the VantageNOVA platform,” added Graham.
Thompson offers preconfigured stowages for the seat, with both open and closed storage options, as well as a large bifold table, and a customisable console area. The centre seat-pairs feature a full-width privacy screen. Wireless charging and a wide range of outlet options are provided, along with in-suite mood lighting.
The VantageNOVA also includes pivoting IFE monitors (up to 24in), which also help the passenger configure the space to their needs, optimising the volume in the suite for various phases such as working on a laptop, viewing a personal electronic device, or sleeping. Pivoting monitors also reduce the issue of a fixed monitor position against the sidewall blocking the cabin windows.
Ross Burns, head of industrial design for Thompson Aero Seating, said of the suite: “The VantageNOVA is Thompson’s first angled twin-aisle offering, bringing together our extensive knowledge of twin-aisle products with the experience from our VantageSOLO angled seat for the single-aisle market. We have developed the VantageNOVA from ground-up to be totally passenger-centred, coupled with an emphasis on residential style cues and exceedingly high comfort levels. The design team has spent many hours sculpting the surfaces to form an elegant and sophisticated silhouette.”
Thompson Aero Seating has already secured a launch customer for VantageNOVA, with delivery due in 2026. Thompson says it is currently well progressed within the Airbus Notification of New Equipment (NOE) process for installation on the A350. Testing will take place at Thompson’s own on-site Dynamic Test Facility, reducing development time and increasing sustainability.
VantageNOVA was first shown to select guests at the Aircraft Interiors Expo 2024, with an official launch due to take place at the 2025 event.
One of Thompson’s best-known industry innovations is the ‘First Class for Free’ concept it introduced nearly 10 years ago. VantageNOVA is also available with this option, giving airlines the opportunity to provide enhanced front rows offering a first-class/business-class-plus experience at the same density as the rest of the business-class cabin.
Andy Morris, chief commercial officer for Thompson Aero Seating stated, “This is a hugely exciting time for Thompson. The new VantageNOVA has created a massive buzz and the timing could not be better as the industry rebounds post-pandemic, with unprecedented orders for twin-aisle aircraft. The programme with our launch customer is progressing well, and discussions are on-going with several other potential customers keen to discuss the options and how they and their passengers could benefit from this innovative seat”.
