The VantageXL seating platform, a popular model flying with airlines including Qantas, Delta and Shanghai Airlines, has received a series of design updates to its styling, and to its comfort and privacy features.
The manufacturer of the seat, Northern Ireland-based Thompson Aero Seating, has worked with design partner, Factorydesign, to develop the enhancements, which include an extended aisle-side wing for more privacy around the head, a larger console surface, and a new multi-function bi-fold table with integrated holder for personal electronic devices (PEDs) such as iPads, etc. The table redesign will benefit maintenance crews as well as passengers, as it now has an easy-to-remove cassette to speed up removal and replacement, when needed.
The 2022 version of VantageXL also features a pivoting multi-position cocktail table, a small closable stowage cubby, and a combined feature light and reading light with integrated headphone hook. The options list has also been enhanced, with popular choices such as a suite door now joined by a translucent divider and a soft-touch monitor surround, as well as scope for IFE monitors of up to 20in.
Andy Morris, VP commercial at Thompson Aero Seating, said that a launch customer is already in place for the updated VantageXL, with the first delivery planned for early 2023.
Visitors to Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg next month (14-16 June) can try out the new VantageXL on stand 7A05.
