The 2014 Aircraft Interiors Expo welcomed over 9,000 visitors (pre-audit figure) from 8-10 April. Over 800 airline representatives were in attendance to witness the future of cabin interior development. They were attracted by over 500 exhibiting companies, representing 31 different countries, which marked a 10% increase in exhibition space compared to 2013 – ensuring that Aircraft Interiors Expo 2014 offered the most comprehensive showcase of new and innovative aircraft interior products across the largest footprint to date.
Developments in IFE and Connectivity proved one of the dominating themes of the event following a decision by the event organisers, Reed Exhibitions, to increase the dedicated IFE Zone by 8%. New streaming software from Global Eagle Entertainment was unveiled; Thales introduced its latest concept, an immersive experience for business class seats which enables occupants to control embedded IFE using eyeball-tracking technology; Gogo released its 2Ku connectivity service which delivers a global in-flight peak speed of 70Mbps; and Panasonic announced the introduction of Panasonic HD-Audio, a new audio solution which includes a number of features previously unavailable on aircraft.
Aside from the IFE & connectivity element, a series of other product launches and commercial agreements were also announced on the busy show floor. Acro Aircraft Seating revealed its new latchless tray table nicknamed the ‘tablet’; a response to customer demands for a more robust, cost effective and maintainable solution. Similarly, Recaro Aircraft Seating presented the CL6710 business class seat for long-haul flights, which offers a 180-degree full flat-bed seat that combines comfort with the possibility of a high density cabin.
AIM Aviation unveiled a concept interior which introduced a host of new designs, layouts and materials for cabin interiors; leather manufacturer Pittards signed a global distribution agreement with Leki Aviation; and Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems showcased its EMPOWER High Power USB In-Seat Power system.
Meanwhile KYDEX announced the release of a new addition to its product line of thermoplastics for aviation interiors and first-time exhibitor Dräxlmaier Aviation introduced a host of innovations including: the Dräxlmaier Enclosure Concept; a refurbished seating design that includes backlit leather with a diamond effect for company logos and emblems; new natural fibre design surfaces; developments in leather processing; and privacy illumination concepts.
“The wealth of innovation delivered on the show floor this year, in conjunction with the number of commercial agreements secured, is very impressive”, said Event Director Katie Murphy. “Given the success of our exhibitors at this year’s show, it is no wonder that Aircraft Interiors Expo continues to grow every year; it clearly provides a unique environment in which to network with key stakeholders from across the aircraft interior supply chain”.
Next year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo will take place from 14-16 April 2015, with the Passenger Experience Conference scheduled for 13 April 2015.
