Last year, Cathay Pacific released a teaser video for a new business class product revealing some details about their new seat. Among other features, there will be a lockable door for added privacy. Initially, these will be installed in the Boeing 777-300ER, and later in the Boeing 777X, if and when it is delivered.
Yesterday, the product was finally unveiled. And not only is there something happening in the business class: the premium economy class also comes with various improvements. The first aircraft with the new cabin are set to take off later this year.
The following video provides a good overview of the new business class and premium economy:
New business class
Cathay Pacific, unlike some other airlines, has a very consistent business class product. Almost all of their long-haul aircraft feature reverse-herringbone seats manufactured by Safran. However, these have been around for about 10 years now, and it’s probably time for something new.
The new business product is called the Aria Suite and offers, among other features:
- Lockable doors
- 24″ 4K monitor
- Touchscreen remote control
- Wireless smartphone charging function
- The ability to pair Bluetooth headphones with the entertainment system
- Tablet holder in the table
- Partition to the seat neighbor for additional privacy at the middle seat
The seat can be transformed into a flat bed. Visually, the new product is certainly appealing. The actual comfort of the seating and sleeping experience, however, remains to be tested in practice.
DesignAir speculates that it may be the Elements Suite seat from Collins Aerospace, albeit with some visual modifications. This is the same seat that Etihad has chosen for their new Business Class. It is also being used by Starlux in Taiwan, where it has received quite good reviews.
New premium economy
There are also some changes In the premium economy cabin as well. Luckily, Cathay is not opting for a shell seat, as Lufthansa has done. The seating arrangement remains 2-4-2.
At first glance, the small wing on the headrest catches the eye, meant to enhance privacy. Strangely, this feature is only toward the seat neighbor and not towards the aisle. The entertainment monitor here expands to 15.6″ with 4K resolution, and there is a small storage area under the monitor for smartphones or similar devices.
In economy class, there is unfortunately the – now common – 3-4-3 layout with 10 seats per row. Additionally, Bluetooth headphones can be connected to the IFE in this class as well.
Cover Picture: © Cathay Pacific