PAX Tech Cabine Hygiene, Seating & IFEC by Paramount Publishing Ltd.

JULY 2020 | www.pax-intl.com

MRO, Interiors & IFEC

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I B A C S FOR

Cabin Hygiene, Seating & IFEC

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EDITOR’S LETTER

PAX Tech 26 Pearl Street, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 1X2, Canada Tel: (1 905) 821-3344 Website: www.pax-intl.com

PUBLISHER Aijaz Khan E-mail: aijaz@globalmarketingcom.ca Tel: (1 905) 821-3344

EDITORIAL OFFICES Rick Lundstrom, Editor-in-Chief PAX Tech 723 Jefferson Street, NE Minneapolis, MN 55413, USA Tel: (1 612) 378-0862 Fax: (1 612) 378-0852 E-mail: rick@pax-intl.com Jane Hobson, Editor Tel: 613-894-9099 E-mail: jane@pax-intl.com Sabrina Pirillo, Associate Editor E-mail: sabrina@pax-intl.com Ash Khan, Social Media Coordinator E-mail: ash@pax-intl.com CONTRIBUTORS Mary Jane Pittilla Jeremy Clark

ART DEPARTMENT Jessica Hearn, Art Director E-mail: jessica@globalmarketingcom.ca

ADVERTISING OFFICES Kevin Greene, Advertising and

New necessities C

onversations throughout this issue focus on the services and cabin products that will be needed as the industry tackles a new obstacle, but what surprised me as we put together the stories that fill this online issue is how much suppliers and airlines are the confronting this crisis with much of the necessary tools and weapons that were already available. Not only had they been thought of and considered, but had been basically sitting on a shelf waiting to be implemented. Touchless technology, like the kind implemented by Air Canada in this issue and AirAsia in an earlier issue, had been taking shape in one form or another for years. While it might have originally been a labor-saving initiative it is now a solution to help make passengers feel more comfortable and at ease as they complete check-in and baggage drop, as well as other steps along their journey. In a thorough list of comments sent to me for the story on seating,

Collins Aerospace President of Interiors Troy Brunk said the company was busying itself with the development of antimicrobial coatings and assessing cabin configurations to maximize space control the spread of pathogens. Such research has been going on since airframe manufacturers began looking at the ultra-long distance flights made possible by aircraft such as the A350 and 787. Also, with increasing stage lengths of narrow body aircraft, cabin hygiene has been front of mind for many suppliers and OEMs. With these and a selection of tools at hand already, solutions are available. Troy, for one has reason for the optimism we could all use. “The air travel industry is banding together like never before and I think we’ll all see the fruits of those collaborative efforts,” he told me. “Airlines, airports, industry associations, governments are walking in lock step and innovating toward the common goal of restoring confidence in passenger flight.”

Marketing Manager Tel: 519-870-9836 E-mail: kevin@pax-intl.com PAX International and PAX Tech are published a total of 10 times a year (February, March/ April, May, June, July, September, October, December) by PAX International, 26 Pearl Street, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 1X2, Canada. International Distribution. Subscriptions: $200 for one year; $300 for two years; $400 for three years. Art and photographs will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage. The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher or editor. July 2019.

Rick Lundstrom Editor-in-Chief PAX Tech

ISSN 1206-5714 Key title: Pax International

www.pax-intl.com | PAX TECH | 3

CONTENTS

Features AIRLINE PROFILE

A CLEAR PICTURE With its multi-layered CleanCare+ program, Air Canada sought to send a message to passengers that it is doing everything it can to win their confidence and instill a sense of safety

SEATING

12 16 18 19

THE LEARNING CURVE As a variety of seating products are appearing around the industry, seating companies are seeking out feedback from customers on what is needed long term SIT, SLEEP, REPEAT A new seating solution revolutionizes rest in the cabin by sliding Economy Class passengers into a sleep position that doesn’t affect the existing row pitch MATERIAL MONOLOGUES As the industry is abuzz with innovations, SEKISUI KYDEX tells PAX Tech about the benefits of antimicrobial material ONBOARD ORTHOPEDICS Designers at ABC International turned their attention to key stress factors that interfered with head and neck comfort and came up with a headrest that provides focused relief

CONNECTIVITY

20 21

COMPLETE CONNECTIONS Through a “smart pipe” Inmarsat and Boeing will offer allocated bandwidth to enhance operations and passenger experience ABOVE CLOUD CONNECTIONS MEA is the latest airline to take eX1 and connectivity from Panasonic

IFE

22 24 26

JULY 2020 | www.pax-intl.com

MRO, Interiors & IFEC

, HEALTHIENE HYG AND HIGH

R CABIN

HOPES FO

INTERIOR

Cabin Hygiene, Seating & IFEC

ON THE COVER: Delta Air Lines’ Global Cleanliness division is responsible for achieving cleanliness standards in Delta aircraft and airport facilities, including electrostatic spraying and wiping down high-touch surfaces. Read more on page 33.

DEPARTMENTS

3 6 34

EDITOR’S NOTE NEWS WHAT’S HOT

4 | PAX TECH | JULY 2020

SANITIZING THE SEATBACK In this guest column, Laurent Safar, Chief Executive Officer of Adaptive Channel, gives his take on the future of inflight magazines in a post-COVID-19 world THE IFE OPPORTUNITY Moment introduces its Flymingo IoT platform and tells PAX Tech why the pandemic is accelerating the need for connected cabins in a successful post-COVID future BURRANA’S BACKBONE The launch of the RISE platform this summer gives the Australian company an enhanced level of modularity to drive its full line of options

CABIN HYGIENE

27 28 30 32 33

A NEW WAY TO WASH UP HAECO’s lavatory line of upgrades take on a formidable hygienic challenge BRINGING DOWN THE DIRT With more than 80 years of experience in microbiology research, FloraLife is forging a path into aircraft cleaning products A BALANCED FUTURE CTT Systems AB, which has been providing aerospace products for aircraft humidity and condensation control for more than 20 years, tells PAX Tech how cabin air quality plays a role in creating a healthy and safe environment for passengers TAKING AIM AT CABIN HYGIENE Cabin cleaning suppliers are responding to the increased demand for cabin hygiene and disinfecting products with these offerings A NEW ERA FOR CLEANLINESS Delta Air Lines’ Vice President of Global Cleanliness Mike Medeiros discusses why industry hygiene standards can never return to the pre-pandemic state

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NEWS

PEOPLE

Trenchard Aviation Group appoints new COO Trenchard Aviation Group has announced the appointment of Gary Smith as the company’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO). With more than 25 years’ senior management experience in airline engineering and MRO, Smith will be responsible for all operations across manufacturing, parts and repairs, and on-wing services. Previously he was Head of Engineering and postholder at easyJet, and led MRO facilities at Rolls-Royce and Triumph Air Repair for more than 10 years. He has an Honours degree in Aeronautical Engineering from City University, London, and an MBA from Cranfield University. “We’re delighted to welcome Gary to the Trenchard Aviation team,” said Mark Faulkner, CEO of Trenchard Aviation Group. “His enviable experience and expertise will be a brilliant asset as we move forward out of the coronavirus pandemic and longer term with our strategic international growth plans.”

Gary Smith, Chief Operating Officer, Trenchard Aviation Group

CONNECTIVITY

ThinKom IFC antennas prove interoperable with LEO, MEO, GEO satellites ThinKom Solutions, Inc., has announced that its Ku3030 aero satellite antennas have been installed on more than 1,550 commercial aircraft of 16 major airlines. The antennas have accrued more than 17 million flight hours and have achieved in excess of 100,000 hours mean-timebefore-failure (MTBF) while supporting 98 percent end-to-end system availability. The Ku3030, underpinned by ThinKom’s patented VICTS flat-panel phased array technology, is the core antenna subsystem employed by Gogo in its 2Ku in-flight connectivity (IFC) systems. ThinKom also reported the Ku3030 antennas recently completed successful OEM line-fit qualification testing by major airframe manufacturers. The software updates can easily be uploaded to existing aircraft installations. ThinKom’s Ka-band IFC antennas, using the same VICTS technology, are now in production. The Ka2517 antennas are fully operational on a fleet of U.S. government aircraft and are nearing introduction on several commercial airline fleets. Multiple supplemental type certificates (STCs) are in process and are expected to be awarded this year. ThinKom has worked with Gogo to develop an econom-

6 | PAX TECH | JULY 2020

ical and efficient process to convert 2Ku systems to Ka-band for airlines seeking to transition to a Ka IFC solution, according to the press release. This offering can be completed during overnight service. In recent months, ThinKom’s Ku- and Ka-band IFC antennas completed multiple ground and inflight tests demonstrating seamless interoperability across low-Earth orbit (LEO), medium-Earth orbit (MEO) and high-throughput geostationary (GEO) satellite constellations. The live on-air testbeds included OneWeb LEO, Telesat LEO 1 and SES’ GEO and O3b MEO satellites. The ThinKom antennas met or exceeded all test parameters, including spectral efficiency, data throughput rates, beam agility, switching speeds, ASI interference, low-angle tracking and inter-constellation roaming. According to the June press release, “The company has also confirmed that its antennas comply with the latest international regulatory requirements, including ITU Article 22, which restricts NGSO terminal emissions to GEO satellites, and the new WRC-19 ESIM rules to protect terrestrial 5G networks operating in the Ka-band from interference emitted by airborne satellite terminals.”

NEWS

SUPPLIER

PressReader distributes select IFE at no cost As aircraft prepare to take to the skies again, PressReader has announced that it is distributing inflight magazines, duty free catalogs and menus digitally at no cost to airlines. Cathay Pacific Airways, Air Canada, Air Mauritius and Turkish Airlines are among the airlines already using the platform to deliver content to loyalty members and passengers. “Great content deserves an outstanding reading experience, and we’re doing what we can to help out,” read the June statement from PressReader.

Flightpath 3D improves map resolution and adds features An improved moving map product with higher-resolution capability, more destination information and additional passenger data analytics are part of the improvements that Flightpath 3D has added to its map offering. With the improvements, Flightpath 3D has native UHD resolution capability of 3840 X 2180p and provides optimum sharpness in the moving map and the window and cockpit views. The next improvement is in the system’s “geotainment” operations. The Flying over Places feature allows passengers to stay informed on the destinations below and offers information and descriptions on 50,000 points of interest, including cities and landmarks that can be accessed on the Flightpath screen. The final improvement are capabilities for the airline to predict future route demand and departure data via the backend dashboard. Passengers have access to information about the airline’s route structure which is captured and collected and can be used to support marketing activities, generate ticket sales and ancillary revenue.

PressReader is distributing inflight magazines, duty free magazines and menus digitally at no cost to airlines The updated map offers more destination information and additional passenger data analytics

SUPPLIER

IdeaNova introduces Version 6 of Inplay player IdeaNova Technologies has introduced its new Inplay player – the sixth generation of the company’s IFE component. Inplay provides a single platform for playback of all DRM and non-DRM content on PC, Mac, and mobile environments. It uses a React-based technology to provide the same experience on mobile devices and laptops. “Since IdeaNova’s developers were able to unify the user experience into a single player, it also reduces operating expenses for their customers, who now need to support only one software,” said a release from the company. “To further reduce the operating expenses, IdeaNova integrated

all DRM and non-DRM playback experience into one player.” The player now supports Google Widevine, Apple FairPlay and Microsoft PlayReady DRM along with playback of mpd and HLS non-DRM content. Customers who already licensed earlier versions of this software will be able to upgrade to Inplay Web 6 free of charge. The new version of the player has some enhanced features such as: picture in picture, scene seek, and playlist. Customization is another enhanced feature, allowing complete user interface and user experience to be adjusted based on customer preferences.

www.pax-intl.com | PAX TECH | 7

NEWS

SUPPLIER

Magnetic MRO conducts virtual aircraft inspection Magnetic MRO has announced the successful completion of its first virtual aircraft inspection for pre-lease preparation. The company’s engineering department performed the inspection with video material of both the airframe and interior. The virtual inspection comes as a response to routine procedures and asset sales being frozen due to COVID-19 lockdowns. During the virtual inspection, a structured file system was implemented, allowing potential customers to efficiently locate and analyze any part of the aircraft. The test inspection allows an inspector to assess the physical condition of the aircraft the from the comfort of their own office, Tõnno Toompuu, Engineering Manager at Magnetic MRO, tells PAX Tech in July. “Virtual inspections can absolutely be part of the aviation world’s future. It should not be considered as a substitute to the physical inspections we are accustomed to, rather as an additional option and tool in supporting meeting the industry’s ever-changing needs and challenges,” Toompuu says. “A detailed image of all areas of the aircraft can be created in a few days and made available to potential customers,” he adds. “This could be a great way for the owners to reach more clients and it would definitely remove a lot of hassles related to travel arrangements.”

The virtual aircraft inspection was performed with video material of both the airframe and interior

PEOPLE

SEKISUI KYDEX names new design director Karyn McAlphin has been appointed Design Director at SEKISUI KYDEX. McAlphin is responsible for creative elements, but will also focus on the production of KYDEX® Thermoplastics and customerfacing experiences at SEKISUI KYDEX. She jointed the company in 2017 as Design Strategist. McAlphin graduated with a BA in fine arts from UCLA and pursued a second BA in photographic illustration from Brooks Institute of Photography with a specialization in audio-visual communications. She moved to the Pacific Northwest to pursue media production and relocated to Virginia for 17 years to work in USAir’s corporate marketing department. During her 25-year career with the airline, culminating as Senior Manager of Marketing and Branding, McAlphin worked on a variety of high-profile projects including the

8 | PAX TECH | JULY 2020

corporate rebranding of USAir to USAirways, the launch of Inflight Café – the first airline industry food for sale program. She also worked on the design and development of a custom-tailored uniform program for 13,000 frontline employees, and development of the Envoy Suite, an industry-leading business class seat.

Karyn McAlphin, Design Director, SEKISUI KYDEX

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AIRLINE PROFILE Airport kiosks get serious attention as part of the CleanCare+ program

A CLEAR PICTURE by RICK LUNDSTROM

With its multi-layered CleanCare+ program, Air Canada sought to send a message to passengers that it is doing everything it can to win their confidence and instill a sense of safety

ir travel into Canada from other locations was still rife with restrictions and limited access at the beginning of July; but the country’s flag carrier was already thinking beyond lockdowns and quarantines to a time when passengers will be boarding again, all with various levels of anxiety and trepidation. As the industry was rocked to the foundations with the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus, Canadians were traveling within the country on limited airline schedules. However, passengers flying in from abroad still had to languish in a 14-day quarantine when they arrive, while US citizens to the south must show an

Andrew Yiu, Vice President of Product at Air Canada

10 | PAX TECH | JULY 2020

essential need to be in the country. Some of those restrictions will hopefully fall away as the summer wears on. When they do, Air Canada will be ready with a step-by-step plan to elevate the passenger experience by degrees through the end of the year. And if there are silver linings to the whole experience, Andrew Yiu, the airline’s Vice President of Product, says they can be found in the ability for Air Canada to design a passenger experience from the ground up and move faster to realize the industry’s dream of a “connected cabin.” Right now, Air Canada is in the midst of a multistage process announced at the end of June. Some of the changes promise flexible re-booking options for Economy Class passengers anxious about a too-full cabin. The airline will notify passengers with rebooking options if seating in Economy Class is filled near capacity. Air Canada has also launched a program called CleanCare+, designed to make passengers feel as safe as possible about their trip. Passengers will soon see additional touch-free features at airports, that will allow them to check their own baggage. Later this month a “virtual queuing” at select counters will alert passengers through a phone notifications when an agent is available to help then. At the airline’s Maple Leaf Lounges passengers will be able to minimize human contact at a self-scanning entry station. To enhance the passenger experience, Air Canada will resume a more robust meal service in Signature Class and on international flights in Economy Class. Awaiting passengers as they board will be the airline’s CleanCare+ customer care kits developed in-house. Comfort items

Virtual queuing alerts passenger when staff at airports are ready to assist them

Touchless kiosks are now at several airports in the Air Canada system

like pillows, blankets and duvets will arrive sanitized in plastic. Yiu said Air Canada was working with its suppliers on more sustainable options for plastic wrapping. On flights of more than two hours in North American Economy Class passengers able to pre-order meals. An expanded offering of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be available on flights where they are offered complimentary. Behind the scenes the airline has a number of safety and sanitation measures outlined in videos on its website. The initial policies that became CleanCare+ began back in April. It was then, Yiu said, that Air Canada first began mandating face masks. Along the way, pre-flight temperature checks and seat blocking were also added. Later, Yiu said planners decided it was important to have a transparent program with a name and a full set of initiatives. “Ultimately we wanted to put a program together that was something easy for a customer to understand which puts everything we are doing for their health and safety from COVID-19 under one brand name,” Yiu says. Phase one of the airline’s food service improvements was the product of the Air Canada Culinary Panel with meal boxes designed by one of the group’s chefs. Hot meals will be served in Signature Class while passengers Premium Economy Class and Economy will be served a cold meal. Beverages of all types will be delivered to the passenger in single-serve containers. “It goes with the whole concept of slowly phasing things in,” said Yiu. “We want to make sure the crew are comfortable heating up meals. We want to make sure the crew is comfortable putting a hot meal in a box and delivering it to the customer.” When Air Canada feels that it is safe to move on to the next phase, Yiu envisions a return of wine service poured from larger bottles and hot meal service in the rear cabins. Choices will be expanded in Economy Class. Buy on board options are also being considered. One thing that may remain a part of the Air Canada meal service is a cold meal option, he says. While hot meals in airline

service are pre-made, frozen and heated up on board, the freshness of a cold meal may appeal to passengers in the future. What passengers in the future may also see is the aforementioned dream of a connected cabin where orders are placed and purchases are regularly made through a personal electronic devices or a seatback screen or before the flight through technology that has been in place for years. “Those are things that customers wanted to see before COVID-19,” Yiu says. “And now it’s almost becoming a necessity.”

Air Canada is modifying its service in Signature Class to deliver meals in a meal box. Cold meals are being used extensively in Economy Class

www.pax-intl.com | PAX TECH | 11

SEATING

The

learning curve Recaro supplied Business Class seating with privacy features on Delta’s A321neos

by RICK LUNDSTROM

ver this unusual summer, seat manufacturing companies and their airline customers are diligently keeping their social distance from each other, but that does not mean that they are communicating or seeking solutions any less. While a number of products have been developed to help airlines make passengers feel as safe and comfortable as possible, work has also been devoted to what needs to be done in the years they say it will take for the industry to recover. All this while struggling airlines are devoting much of their efforts to regaining passenger confidence. Even before the COVID-19 virus prompted a jarring and sudden pause to air travel, some of the largest seat manufacturing companies were preparing for what they saw was a softening of the commercial aviation market. Aircraft order books at major events were not as large as the three-figure announcements in years past. The red-hot industry that led to double digit sales growth was giving pause for reflection and long-term planning. Now, they say, they are listening to the stories, talking with focus groups and assessing what is needed to maintain and improve their partnerships for the long haul.

12 | PAX TECH | JULY 2020

As a variety of seating products are appearing around the industry, seating companies are seeking out feedback from customers on what is needed long term

“The immediate impact on the industry has been swift and devastating,” Troy Brunk, President of Interiors at Collins Aerospace tells PAX Tech. “Airlines are financially strapped right now, so we have centered our efforts on investigating solutions that build upon our already existing cabin technologies that can be implemented quickly and efficiently; and a more touchless, hygienic and enjoyable experience for cabin and crew.” Brunk has 27 years’ experience at the company, and took over the top spot in the Interiors division in April of this year. Though he has been with the company for decades he said he has seen the passenger journey that all suppliers and airlines study meticulously change completely in only a few months. While he said he relishes the opportunity to look at the big picture for years to come, a redefined travel experience and product development is starting out in some of the smallest places on the aircraft. “Really, we are taking a very close look at anything that requires human contact onboard an aircraft,” he says. “And we are evaluating both the ready-now solutions we can provide and which longer-term technologies we can build for the future.” Collins Aerospace will be researching materials with antimicrobial coatings, assessing cabin configuration

High walls and and other privacy features are in the Horizon Premier seat from Collins Aerospace

options to maximize space within the aircraft and mitigating the spread of pathogens, while eliminating the need for physical touchpoints across the cabin. From there, developing products that fit the budget of airlines is an urgent priority. “It is our responsibility at Collins Aerospace to be cognizant of that and develop solutions that airlines can swiftly implement to help begin this industry’s recovery,” Brunk says.

Hygiene on the front burner

In the summer of 2018 seat-maker Recaro was celebrating an innovation award in Berlin for its Hygienic Seat, coated with antibacterial substances and designed for aircraft with increasingly long stage lengths. At that time, the company was also experiencing a period of unprecedented growth where sales increased more than 20 percent for the years 2018 and 2019. Recaro itself needed to quickly change focus as COVID-19 spread from Asia to Europe. With a manufacturing plant in Qingdao, located between Beijing and Shanghai, the company began using China operations as a blueprint for preparing for the eventual outbreak in Europe. It also turned its attention to the company’s supply chain to maintain on-time deliveries. The year 2020 was one where the company had already

Collins Aerospace Interiors President Troy Brunk took over the top spot in the division in April

planned to see sales softening. But nothing could have prepared for the blow the industry took, or seen the urgent need for a product like the Hygienic Seat. Trade wars and problems with the 737 MAX were going to hamper the industry, says Dr. Mark Hiller, Chief Executive Officer and Shareholder of Recaro, but add a pandemic to the mix and fortunes for airlines and suppliers changed quickly. Hiller says the “third wave” to affect company operations was the expected cancellations and postponements that will result in a 60 percent loss in revenue over 2019. The plastic surfaces and metal parts in Recaro seats can be equipped with the antibacterial coatings, if customers pick the option. The properties of the coatings make germs disappear within a short time. Currently, Recaro is in the final stages of tests for its anti-viral effects. The company reports the results are promising. The coatings work alongside the www.pax-intl.com | PAX TECH | 13

SEATING

The Interspace line of products for Business Class from Safran

existing systems, such as HEPA filters to reduce the risk of infectious disease transmission within the aircraft. However, Hiller says “most of the airlines are thinking about short-term solutions which can be implemented on short notice which have a minimal impact on cost and weight which they might be able to quickly un-install.” At this year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo, Recaro planned to show visitors its BL3710 medium range seat with advanced inflight entertainment integration and privacy features built in. The company was also keen to highlight its Sprint program which promises aircraft seat delivery in a period of less than two months. The latter program will be important to airlines because, as a result of the worldwide spread of COVID-19, many aircraft are changing ownership or being returned to leasing companies.

Privacy and distancing

Another company that has done much to prepare for the new air travel dynamic was Safran Seats. Safran began looking at passenger privacy with the help of a partner company called Universal Movement. One of the outcomes

of the partnership was products called Interspace and Interspace Lite, which allows airlines to easily reconfigure cabins in Business Class and Economy Class. The features give privacy to passengers by locking out either the central or outboard seats of a row or by adding a lateral privacy wing along the height of the backrest. The company began working with Universal Movement on product development late last year, but quickly the need for such a collaboration became clear as the COVID-19 virus rocked the industry. “Safran Seats is confident that this partnership with Universal Movement will generate value for our customers thanks to its recognized agility and innovative spirit,” says Quentin Munier, Executive Vice President Strategy and Innovation at Safran. “Interspace is a great innovation for privacy of passengers, even more so in the post-COVID-19 travel environment that is ahead of us.” Social distancing without loss of passenger density, touchless interactions and virus free surfaces are part of the French company’s Travel Safe by Safran Seats program. One of the most visible elements of the company’s program was the Ringfence, a simple solution that involves installation of a removable partition that isolates passengers seated near each other. Another attachment allows backrests to be reclined with a pedal mechanism. Finally, Safran has also developed a coating for seats and tray tables for easy disinfection and cleaning. Munier tells PAX Tech that Safran is seeing interest in all the products and the company is working to clear regulatory requirements and have the two product lines delivered as quickly as possible. A launch customer for some the product line is expected before the end of the year. In addition to supplying products, Safran is keen to work with its wide customer base on future solutions. With the announcement of Interspace and the Travel Safe by Safran Seats the company also announced a program called Create with Safran Seats. The goal of the program is collaboration on solutions that airlines can place into service in a short period of time. The company has hopes it will result in a selection of customized seats adapted for the post-COVID-19 travel environment.

Some of the privacy features Safran has incorporated into its designs for Economy Class

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Feel different. Better wellbeing. Better relaxation. Better sleep. Better taste.

Cabin air dehydrates people. A long distance aircraft requires active humidification in order not to be more dehydrating than any place on earth. Problems caused by dry cabin air include fatigue, jet lag, red eyes, dry skin, more susceptibility to virus diseases, etc.

Humidifier Onboard transforms the experience.

SEATING

Sit, sleep, repeat by JANE HOBSON

A new seating solution revolutionizes rest in the cabin by sliding Economy Class passengers into a sleep position that doesn’t affect the existing row pitch

The LSEAT provides a sleeping position for Economy Class passengers without affecting row pitch, needing electricity or requiring help from crew

16 | PAX TECH | JULY 2020

s the majority of passengers globally travel in Economy Class, seating suppliers are innovating to increase the passenger experience with frontof-cabin like solutions for airlines at affordable rates for these passengers. The LSEAT is an Economy Class passenger seat that converts from sitting to sleep mode without the use of electricity or need for crew assistance. The seat cushion moves downward approximately 40 degrees at the front allowing a leg and foot rest to extend, offering a comfortable position for sleep. The passenger angle of rest is medically and ergonomically proven to be ideal for blood circulation and to avoid inflammation of veins and feet inflight, Yves Hendrickx, LSEAT inventor, tells PAX Tech. The seat was inspired by his personal desire to find an aircraft seat comfortable for both sitting and sleeping and that makes use of the otherwise wasted space below the seat in front. “Typical recline will only change the inclination of the seat but keep the passenger in sitting mode,” Hendrickx says. The LSEAT, however, extends within in the existing row pitch so that it does not to affect cabin density or disturb surrounding passengers. Full new installation of the LSEAT can be done overnight. For retrofit solutions, an LSEAT kit is adaptable for many types of seats in order not to alter the integrity of the existing seat. For retrofit, the recline is not modified; the sleep surface comes with the change in shape of the lower seat level and extension below the passenger seat in front. New seats will be available for delivery by May 2021, and retrofit kits for January 2021.

Airlines benefit by being able to offer an improved Economy Class passenger experience – at a higher price point, increasing seat revenue, says Hendrickx. If the airline assumes a US$50 increase per ticket price (for example, but it can be more), with two long-haul rotations per day for 330 days a year, the additional revenue per LSEAT is US$33,000 a year. “With 48 LSEATs in an Economy Class cabin of 200 seats total, the additional revenue in a year increases by US$1.5 million per aircraft,” Hendrickx explains. “This means the payback time on investment is less than three months.” Whether it is long-haul travel for business or leisure, passengers will be willing to pay the minor price increase to know they can sleep inflight, he says. Plus, Hendrickx adds, it’s a reasonable investment that brings high profit in the short term, which is what airlines need to recover from the COVID19 crisis.

“The Economy Class is carrying the largest number of passengers,” Hendrickx says. “A small revenue increase on the highest number of passengers make the Economy Class the most profitable – far above Economy Plus, Business Class or First Class.” Hendrickx says Sonaca, hedge and parts provider for companies such as Airbus, Boeing, Embraer and Dassault Aviation, has been named engineering and production subcontractor and management partner. Aerospace service provider Fokker Services is also a possible partner for the LSEAT program. Since the patent was recently secured, the LSEAT has received high interest from several airlines it has been offered to in Europe, Middle East and Asia. “The reaction was above our expectations,” Hendrickx says, adding that five major airlines have started purchase negotiations for the seat.

ZEPHYR INTRODUCES DOUBLE-DECKER SEAT San Francisco-based start-up Zephyr Aerospace has introduced the Zephyr Seat, a double-decker life-flat seat that offers private, comfortable sleep positions for an affordable rate. Currently in the crowd-funding stage, the Zephyr Seat is undergoing safety tests with engineering partners and requesting Technical Standard Order (TSO) authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration to be commercialized. The Premium Economy seat upgrade allows airlines to maintain the industry standard configuration 2-4-2, but in a stacked bi-level format, Jeffrey O’Neill, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Zephyr Aerospace, tells PAX Tech in July. Zephyr Aerospace is in discussion with several major airlines but there are no firm customers at this time.

A sleeping position on long-haul flights reduces stress and jet lag and airlines can gradually increase fares and ancillary revenue by offering the lie-flat option in Premium Economy, O’Neill says. And, it encourages physical distancing, offering space for each passenger, he adds. The price for each Zephyr Seat is up to 50 percent less than a standard lie-flat Business/First Class seat and up to 30 percent lighter. The estimated cost per seat is US$20,000 to $40,000. Each seat has three movable parts – exterior armrest, tray table and footwell cover – reducing direct maintenance costs by up to 75 percent. The retrofit process is estimated to take additional time, given the complexities of second-level seating, he says. Exact costs have not yet been determined.

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SEATING

l a i r e t Ma monologues KYDEX ION Technology™ by SEKISUI KYDEX incorporates antimicrobial protection into KYDEX® thermoplastic sheet which does not wear off over time and interferes with microbe DNA to prevent cells from multiplying on the sheet surface and inhibits the growth of stain- and odor-causing bacteria and fungi

As the industry is abuzz with innovations, SEKISUI KYDEX tells PAX Tech about the benefits of antimicrobial material

ew innovations to help travelers feel safe in the cabin come to life seemingly on a daily basis. RedCabin’s third installment of its webinar series, entitled “Enjoying a Safe Aircraft Cabin,” discussed how aircraft interiors materials can be significant in creating a clean and reliable aircraft cabin. Industry leaders pointed out that it was not only the inherently antimicrobial materials that made a difference, but also their ability to withstand strong cleaning agents. In response to this industry need, SEKISUI KYDEX seeks to help the aviation industry build passenger confidence through their antimicrobial product portfolio. One of these materials is KYDEX ION Technology™ by SEKISUI KYDEX. It incorporates premium antimicrobial protection into KYDEX® thermoplastic sheet which does not wear off over time. This protection interferes with microbe DNA to prevent cells from multiplying on the sheet surface and inhibits the growth of stain- and odorcausing bacteria and fungi. KYDEX ION Technology is ideal for high touch areas such as tray tables, seat backs,

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armrests, IFE bezels, privacy panels, monuments and lavatory surfaces. While KYDEX ION Technology is SEKISUI KYDEX’s latest innovation, KYDEX Thermoplastics have always been inherently antimicrobial. The KYDEX Thermoplastics product portfolio includes KYDEX MB, the original antimicrobial product line, launched in 2009. Because antimicrobial technologies have evolved since these initial developments, teams at SEKISUI KYDEX have created the next generation of high performance, antimicrobial treated thermoplastic sheet with KYDEX ION Technology. It is engineered to help build consumer confidence regarding high touch surfaces, SEKISUI KYDEX tells PAX Tech. “Passenger confidence is a major focus of the evolving passenger experience,” says Ben Smalley, Aviation Market Business Manager at SEKISUI KYDEX. “Using materials such as KYDEX ION Technology that are chemically resistant, antimicrobial, and will not be stained by harsh cleaning agents can bring reassurance and peace of mind to the aviation industry and passengers alike.”

After testing the product, results demonstrate that KYDEX Thermoplastics are not adversely affected by industry leading cleaners and disinfectants, and perform without loss of surface finish, color fastness, or degradation of mechanical and physical properties. “These chemical reagents can have an adverse effect on competitor surfaces, causing discoloration, brittleness, staining, and product failure,” says Sean M. Stabler, Research and Innovation Manager at SEKISUI KYDEX. “Using the right materials and understanding their compatibility with disinfectants are vital to ensuring a long, functional life.” But that doesn’t mean durable, antimicrobial treated materials have to be boring. SEKISUI KYDEX seeks to help industries with this hurdle as well. Using Infused Imaging Technology, a proprietary process that embeds imagery into thermoplastic material, industry leaders and designers can let creativity flow. “Because the imagery is in the material, it will not chip, fade, or delaminate the way capped and traditionally printed images can,” says Smalley. Infused Imaging Technology can be used in tandem with any KYDEX thermoplastic, including KYDEX ION Technology.

SEATING

Onboard orthopedics by RICK LUNDSTROM

The Boom Headrest (in two positions) bears the weight of the head while providing neck support

nyone passing through an airport would not have to look far and wide before seeing a passenger preparing for a long flight clutching a thick, donut-shaped orthopedic pillow that they will drape around their neck in hopes of capturing a little more comfort. The pillows allow the passenger to relax with neck support, carrying the weight of the head while cushioning and embracing the nape and neck. The concept has led Italian company ABC International to develop a headrest with a similar concept that can be installed on any type of aircraft seat in a variety of paddings, shapes and covers. ABC International was preparing to introduce the Boom Headrest at last spring’s Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg. Designed by Aysegul Durak, a former cabin interiors chief engineer at Turkish Airlines, the Boom Headrest is equipped with a multifunctional mechanism called a gooseneck. Passengers can adjust the head and neck options by applying light pressure on the arms of the gooseneck to bring it to the desired position.

Designers at ABC International turned their attention to key stress factors that interfered with head and neck comfort and came up with a headrest that provides focused relief

Durak tells PAX Tech that optimal comfort is achieved when a headrest can carry the weight of a passenger’s head. It must also embrace the nape of the neck tightly and provide various neck support position selections throughout the flight. “The multifunctional bending mechanism inside the circular structure of the Boom Headrest is the only headrest that is designed to meet all these conditions that provide headrest customization,” says Durak. The headrest is designed to increase passenger comfort and enhance the inflight experience in every seating position possible. It can be adjusted to any position that the passenger wants, eliminating the need for airlines to supply orthopedic pillows or for passengers to bring their own onboard. It reduces stiff neck, neck pain and allows passengers to rest better onboard. Retrofit of an aircraft can be done in approximately three days, says Alberto D’Ambrosio, Chief Executive Officer of ABC International. The product can be installed in Business Class or Economy Class seating. Durak adds that the Boom Headrest is a lightweight solution, and

even seats that do not currently have headrests can stay within weight limits with an installation. The headrest is made with aluminum alloys with steel and polyamide inserts. “We can change the dimensions, foam stiffness and also fabric/leather according to the demand,” says Durak. “We can adjust those according to the seat dimensions and model. One of the best parts of co-operating with Italian companies is they make the product in a very aesthetical way besides its quality.” ABC International plans to offer the Boom Headrest to both seat manufacturers and airlines as either line-fit or retrofit. The company is embarking on an extensive marketing program. www.pax-intl.com | PAX TECH | 19

CONNECTIVITY

COMPLETE CONNECTIONS

eople may be impressed with features like folding wing tips, additional passenger space and composite construction, but when the 777X is delivered, airlines also have the option to select a feature that shows that advancements in connectivity remain one of the most interesting and potentially lucrative frontiers in aviation. The 777X is expected to join more than 2,000 previous copies of the workhorse twin-aisle in 2021 with launch customer Lufthansa German Airlines. The evolution of the “digital cabin” has been talked about for everything from enhancing the experience for the passenger to helping cabin crew and cockpit communicate and diagnose problems that can occur inflight. A well-known study from the London School of Economics, commissioned by Inmarsat, estimates that with improved connectivity, airlines around the world could realize savings of up to US$15 billion per year by 2035. Inmarsat is now working with Boeing on a solution that separates allocated inflight connectivity bandwidth. At the end of June, Inmarsat

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announced it had developed a “smart pipe” technology for the 777X. The new technology allows airlines to separate inflight broadband connectivity from cockpit and cabin communications to use multiple third-party applications simultaneously. With the use of the smart pipe, airlines will be able to more effectively conduct predictive maintenance, route optimization and air traffic management. It will also allow crews to communicate with the ground in real time. All that can occur while a planeload of passengers are accessing high-speed Internet and live television. Kurt Weidemeyer, Senior Vice President Technology for Inmarsat Aviation, says the use of “two discreet pipes” allows the airline to “set a higher level of priority over passenger traffic or vice versa.” Airlines can use the smart pipe over two of Inmarsat’s satcom solutions, GX Aviation and Swiftbroadband Safety (SB-S). Weidemeyer says the smart pipe benefits passengers with uninterrupted connectivity while giving cabin and cockpit crew the ability to stream video off the aircraft whether in the cabin, or through cameras that monitor the belly space for cargo. As airlines make

New ‘smart pipe’ technology allows airlines to separate inflight broadband connectivity from cockpit and cabin communications to use multiple thirdparty applications simultaneously

Through a “smart pipe” Inmarsat and Boeing will offer allocated bandwidth to enhance operations and passenger experience by RICK LUNDSTROM

plans and develop programs to deal with the logistical challenges posed by the COVID-19 virus, a smart pipe system could be used to process push notifications for passengers to get more information about flight status or other changes. In the announcement of the Smart Pipe, Inmarsat President Philip Balaam called the technology a significant milestone for connected aircraft of the future saying it “reinforces Inmarsat’s key role in serving the aviation industry with a suite of operation and passenger connectivity services.” In late April, two 777X prototypes were in testing above Seattle’s Boeing Field. The aircraft is being developed in two versions with the 777-8 seating 384 passenger and the 777-9 seating 426 passengers. First flight of the 777X was in January of this year, with first deliveries planned for 2021. However, market realities has caused Boeing to reduce the aircraft’s production rates to three per month in 2021. Inmarsat’s new smart pipe technology will initially be available to airlines that have either ordered or plan to order the Boeing 777X. In addition, the company will be able to make upgrades on other aircraft models.

CONNECTIVITY

Above cloud connections MEA is the latest airline to take eX1 and connectivity from Panasonic

by RICK LUNDSTROM

anasonic Avionics has been selected by Middle East AirlinesAir Liban (MEA) to provide inflight entertainment and connectivity solutions for 15 of its A321s. First deliveries started this month. Nine A321neos will become the first connected aircraft to join MEA’s fleet. They will be line-fitted with

Panasonic’s eX1 seatback IFE solution, designed for narrowbody aircraft. The eX1 has full HD seatback monitors, with touch displays and handsets, and a personalized interface. Passengers will have access to USB and laptop charging power points at every seat. MEA’s A321neos will also be fitted with Panasonic’s inflight Wi-Fi service, with its next generation connectivity benefits from fast Internet to video streaming. It is powered by the company’s new satellite modem which offers bandwidth up to 20 times greater than previously available. “We are delighted to be partnering with Middle East Airlines to enhance

Middle East Airlines, based in Lebanon, is celebrating 75 years in business

the passenger experience on their A321 family aircraft with our world-class inflight entertainment and connectivity,” said Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics. “The Middle East is a dynamic and strategically important region for Panasonic Avionics.” Mohamad El Hout, Chairman – Director General of MEA, added; “We are happy to partner again with Panasonic Avionics. MEA’s new aircraft is equipped with its state-of-the-art inflight entertainment systems including WiFi connectivity for the first time, reflecting the company’s ambition to provide customers with the best products the industry has to offer.”

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IFE

Sanitizing the seatback In this guest column, Laurent Safar, Chief Executive Officer of Adaptive Channel, gives his take on the future of inflight magazines in a post-COVID-19 world

he year 2020 has not been – and, most likely, will not be – the year that any of us expected. Of course, I’m referring to the COVID-19 pandemic that, for many months, effectively shut down all aspects of the travel industry, with the aviation industry being particularly hard hit. Even now that some countries have started to flatten the curve and borders are opening up, it is still anticipated that the travel industry could take years to return to pre-COVID-19 and 2019 numbers. It’s plain to see – no matter how much travel picks up in the coming months or years – that no airline will come out of this unaffected. However, some will be facing a much better financial outlook post-pandemic than others. What are the factors that will decide which airlines are most successful, post-virus? This can be answered in one word: innovation. Now is the time for airlines to establish their postCoronavirus operational strategy so they will be ready when the demand returns. Airlines must dig deep and truly think outside of the box when it comes to how they will fulfill passengers’ needs, while cutting costs and boosting revenue.

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New Priorities

COVID-19 has introduced a new normal for every aspect of our daily lives and it has shifted travelers’ perspectives and priorities for their inflight experience as well. Health and safety will be front-of-mind for passengers and they will be looking to airlines to implement strategies to protect them from potential contagions that they may encounter while traveling. As such, inflight amenities and services will need to be considered and updated to address health-related concerns. So how can airlines provide for their germ-conscious passengers? First, it’s important to put yourself in your germ-conscious passengers’ shoes. You’ll quickly see that the aircraft and seats could be perceived, by passengers, as a possible cesspool of germs – and the airline must act today to ensure that they’re ready to greet these passengers – with their new needs and wants – as the industry very slowly picks up again. Today’s passengers want some pretty big changes. Of course, more regular disinfection must be a priority, including the seat, seatbelt, tray table and seatback pocket, even during short turnarounds. COVID-19 is also accelerating digital transformations that were already underway in the aviation industry. To

checking in and navigating through the terminal, to controlling IFE and even interacting with cabin crew – creating a real opportunity for them to promote relevant ancillary services through their mobile apps to an almost captive audience.” If you’re still not convinced about the value of digital press content in a post-pandemic world, here are some other key benefits to this innovative strategy:

Boost Ancillary Revenue

Digital press content gives airlines important insight into passengers’ interests, needs and wants. The content-rich nature of newspapers and magazines provides the opportunity to mine data that will improve their ability to deliver targeted compelling ads more effectively to the right passenger, at the right time – drastically improving an airline’s travel retail conversion rates by leveraging up-selling and cross-selling opportunities.

Cut Costs

Eliminating hard copy press is also a great way to cut airlines’ operational costs; by eliminating the extra weight that hard copy newspapers and magazines add to each flight, airlines will experience a significant cost reduction on fuel. “According to research from Boeing, removing the weight of print newspapers and magazines equates to an annual savings of over $4.5 million for a fleet of wide-body aircraft operating 1,000 flights per day,” as reported by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) in 2016. As well, offering digital press eliminates the logistical costs associated with providing hard copy newspapers and magazines, giving airlines another way to decrease their operating costs.

Help improve the environment, one flight at a time

significantly decrease passengers’ perceived exposure to contagions, airlines should digitize everything possible, including hard copy inflight magazines and instead share the same content via a digital magazine. The switch from hard-copy newspapers to digital newspapers, readable on the same device as digital magazines, is another way to offer passengers the press content that they want, both inflight and in the lounge, from the safety of their own device (via the airline’s mobile app or a web portal in lounges). Finally, airlines must consider digitizing duty-free catalogs, safety cards and menus - again, reducing opportunities for transmission of contagions between passengers and saving time on turnaround sanitization measures. An April 2020 article by Future Travel Experience, entitled ‘How the COVID-19 pandemic could change the end-to-end passenger experience forever,’ states: “… passengers may be more wary of touching inflight entertainment (IFE) screens and may turn to their own devices en masse. There could be an opportunity here for airlines, or more specifically airline apps. Airlines may have more success in convincing passengers to use their apps if it adds value at every touchpoint – from

Today’s passengers are also very environmentally conscious, giving airlines who prioritize improving their overall environmental impact a significant financial advantage when appealing to travelers. By eliminating paper waste from hard copy newspapers and magazines (and the weight associated with them), airlines use less fuel per flight, decreasing the overall carbon dioxide emissions and improving their carbon footprint – and, as a result, making their airline much more attractive to potential guests.

It’s A Brand New (Digital) World

As you can see, the change from hard copy inflight magazines and newspapers to digital press will improve your passenger experience and Net Promoter Score, create new ancillary revenue opportunities, offer valuable ways to cut logistical and operational costs, give your airline a financial advantage over airlines that aren’t prioritizing improving their environmental impact and, most importantly, it will reassure health conscious travelers of their safety inflight. Airlines worldwide have already started implementing the switch to digital press inflight because they recognize their passengers’ general discomfort in touching items they don’t know are completely clean and sanitized. We expect to see many more forward-thinking airlines adopting digital press, through their IFE solution, in the coming weeks and months – after all, it will be an operational imperative for airlines worldwide during the very slow, COVID-19-impacted travel market - and beyond! www.pax-intl.com | PAX TECH | 23

IFE

The IFE opportunity by JANE HOBSON

The Flymingo IoT platform is accessible to passengers via their personal electronic devices

Moment introduces its Flymingo IoT platform and tells PAX Tech why the pandemic is accelerating the need for connected cabins in a successful post-COVID future

ndustry leaders are predicting the need for adjustment in every aspect of the post-pandemic aircraft cabin, from seating and lavatories to inflight entertainment. A France-based IFE provider has adapted its digital platform with Internet of Things (IoT) capability to meet future passenger expectations and help crew manage health and safety onboard. Michael Serres, Chief Operating Officer at Moment, called it a “real game changer for airlines,” when he spoke to PAX Tech. “Wireless technology, on which Moment solutions are already based, will become even more essential,” he says. “The IoT will undoubtedly be the next step to meet both passengers’ expectations and airlines’ needs.” Coupled with connectivity, the new inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) and IoT hardware platform, called Flymingo IoT by Moment, enables enhanced digitalization of services in the aircraft cabin, offering increased passenger experience and operational improvements. For airlines, it offers new revenue streams, such as implementing buy-on-board options, and improves efficiency of logistics for crew. Through the platform, the cabin becomes an “ecosystem of interconnected devices, to centralize, orchestrate and process cabin data via a single access point,” Serres says. “The experience aboard the aircraft must remain unique while offering the same communication capabilities that

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The Flymingo IoT platform by Moment creates a connected cabin that enables digitalization of passenger services and operational and logistical improvements for crew

[passengers] would have at home.” The solution adapts to the existing infrastructure and, via a network of wireless sensors connected to the server, automatically surveys cabin elements and provides overview for the crew, with checks on life jackets, oxygen masks, seatbelts, windows and more. The digital solution supports contactless payment via an integrated system for shopping, access to online magazines and other reading content for passengers. Other features include the ability for the airline to include seatback safety cards and announcements as part of the platform, and security messages that interrupt entertainment broadcasts. Via their personal devices, connected passengers can control their environment, adjusting lights and temperature and accessing entertainment. From their seat, passengers can choose personalized services, order amenities and comfort items and meals, and communicate with the flight attendants – all while maintaining distancing health measures and other precautions in place. “IFE has to adapt to bring more to the passenger experience – and COVID-19

Michael Serres, Chief Operating Officer, Moment

has confirmed this trend,” Serres says. “Inflight experience will evolve in what is going to be become a new normal. Digital platforms are the immediate answer; easy to deploy, to enhance safety and to minimize interactions and contact.” Moment has plans to incorporate more features for passengers in the future, including meditation and relaxation modules. “Promoting a touchless onboard environment could instill further confidence in passengers at a crucial period when airlines need to accelerate their activities,” Serres says.

IFE

BURRANA’S BACKBONE by RICK LUNDSTROM

The RISE overhead and seatback entertainment systems

The launch of the RISE platform this summer gives the Australian company an enhanced level of modularity to drive its full line of options

ith its new company name now established in the industry, and a portfolio of products either developed in-house or acquired, Burrana announced this summer the launch of its RISE IFE platform with a brand name designed to showcase its abilities and unite the industry in troubling times. Wireless Internet, overhead screens and seatback IFE all driven by a common power source gives airlines the chance to upgrade inflight offerings quickly, but also makes retrofit easy and affordable. “RISE was created to solves airlines’ most challenging issues regarding inflight entertainment, while providing passengers with an experience unlike any others,” said David Pook, Vice President of Marketing and Sales Support at Burrana in a late-June online event announcing the launch. “The name of it comes from the fact that we want to approach the traditional IFE issues in a different way.” The RISE system draws on many tried-and-true products. Last year, the company inked a contract for the purchase of the PAVES products

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from Collins Aerospace and quickly updated its line of overhead screens to meet airline’s desire for 4K Ultrahigh-definition video. Other features of RISE bring in power and lighting, seatback IFE along with crew applications and entertainment content. “And with RISE, we’ve added more tools to reduce cost of ownership and increase revenue generation, such as with the GUI configuration tool, Apps Marketplace, Dynamic Advertising and wireless content loading,” says Pook in a July PAX Tech interview. The displays within RISE are 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) resolution and feature High Dynamic Range (HDR), large amounts of local storage, and robust processing power, packaged in a thin and modern design. Each seatback display also supports integrated single-pin audio, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), and the airline’s choice between USB-C or USB-A power supply. Airlines have the potential to earn ancillary revenue through the system’s capabilities for targeted advertisements, pay-to-access and

David Pook, Burrana’s Vice President of Marketing and Sales Support

view content, selling in-seat power and managing food and duty free sales, as well as the ability for passengers to book destination experiences. “We’ve been really clever about we’ve architected our software, apps and services,” said Pook in the earlier press event. “RISE has completely eliminated the need for time-consuming and expensive change requests, ATPs and FSATs. Airlines will be able to add or remove apps from aircraft via simple, web-based tool and make changes to GUI by themselves, without the need for formal acceptance testing.” RISE also offer numerous ultra-highspeed content loading options, easier maintenance, and is 30 percent lighter than other IFE solutions. RISE will be available for retrofit on single and twinaisle aircraft in early 2021 and available for line-fit installations shortly thereafter. “We expect that airlines will demand greater flexibility and configurability to reduce change request costs,” Pook says. “And they will be more inclined to lease, rather than purchase hardware.”

CABIN HYGIENE

A new way to wash up HAECO’s lavatory line of upgrades take on a formidable hygienic challenge

by RICK LUNDSTROM

irlines and suppliers have long sought solutions for challenges that are posed by aircraft lavatories. Potable water sources are scrutinized; sensitive smoke detectors installed; passengers urged not to congregate; equipment developed to aid passengers with disabilities. Now, the elements within the lavatories where passengers place their hands are getting new attention, and HAECO has developed touchless lavatory products to support airline and passenger requirements when travel resumes. “In our current environment and expectations for the future, passengers would greatly benefit from these enhancements to onboard sanitation,” Doug Rasmussen, President and Group Director of HAECO Cabin Solutions, tells PAX Tech. “These devices are already familiar to consumers, and we can certify their use in aircraft for integration into the aircraft cabin.” HAECO’s touchless product line includes its Foot Activated Toilet Switch, a floor level feature that eliminates unsanitary touch-points for the passenger, and the Foot Pedal Flange, which can be attached to existing toilet lids so the passenger can use the foot to lift it. The other two products are the Motion Activated Waste Basket Lid and Liquid Dispenser. The Motion Activated Waste Basket Lid opens with the help of an infrared sensor. The Liquid Dispenser can hold soap or hand sanitizers and is operated by long-life batteries. The Dispenser can be installed on any vertical or flat service throughout the cabin. While similar products have been showing up in airports around the world, aircraft cabins have been largely unchanged for years. HAECO says that the solutions can be installed at a reasonable cost, and the company continues to develop new ways for passengers to move about the cabin safely.

The Foot Pedal Flange by HAECO can be attached to existing toilet lids so the passenger can use the foot to lift it

HAECO’s newest touchless product line offers touchless options with the Motion Activated Waste Basket Lid and Liquid Dispenser

www.pax-intl.com | PAX TECH | 27

CABIN HYGIENE

Bringing down

the dirt With more than 80 years of experience in microbiology research, FloraLife is forging a path into aircraft cleaning products by JANE HOBSON

SOAP by FloraLife is individually packaged soap ideal for travel. The packets are lightweight, easy to carry and eliminate the need to touch public soap dispensers

FloraLife has expanded beyond its flower care focus and now develops EPA registered products for aircraft cabins

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irlines globally are on the hunt for cabin interior products that support the effort to make passengers feel confident and comfortable enough to fly. Established in 1938 with the invention of the flower food packet, South Carolina-based FloraLife has expanded beyond its flower care focus to introduce products to address these changes in hygiene expectations. The company has more than 80 years of experience in microbiology research and has been in the floricultural and disinfectant business for 29 years. At its corporate headquarters, the facility houses sales, manufacturing, warehousing and research under one roof. From this stronghold it has developed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered disinfectant cleaners that appear on EPA List N and are approved for use against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. “At the onset of the pandemic, we expanded beyond our flower care focus to provide a variety of industries and consumers [with] cleaning products to address the increased cleaning norms,” Mark Allen, Global Product Manager, tells PAX Tech, adding that the company’s purchasing website launched in late-March 2020. The EPA registered products, FloraLife® D.C.D.® Cleaner and FloraLife MicroBLOC®, are both disinfectant, cleaner,

FLORALIFE PRODUCT FORMAT: FloraLife® D.C.D.® Cleaner concentrate in varying sizes: 16-ounce up to 264-gallon tote. Diluted at 2 ounces/1 gallon of water FloraLife® MicroBLOC® concentrate in varying sizes: 1 gallon up to 264-gallon tote. Diluted at 2 ounces/ 5 gallons of water FloraLife® D.C.D.® and FloraLife® MicroBLOC® come in readyto-use formats of 32oz sprayers and 1-gallon refill containers (1 gallon or less sold by case, larger sizes sold in units) Liquid and/or powder SOAP packets: 3-millilter liquid or 1-gram powder packets, 50-pack consumer cartson, 150-pack display boxes, 2,000-pack bulk boxes

sanitizer, bactericide, virucide, fungicide, mildewstat and deodorizer. They are available in a concentrate to be diluted by the user and a ready-to-use spray refill container. FloraLife D.C.D. Cleaner doubles as a one-step cleaner disinfectant due to additional detergents in the formula. These products are for use on hard non-porous surfaces throughout the aircraft cabin, such as walls, floors, ceilings, shelves, galleys and stowage bins. “Combined with proper cleaning protocols, our hospital grade line of EPA-certified disinfectant cleaners not only get the job done but will leave a transparent film that allows for residual effect for at least 24 hours,” Allen says. This transparent film exists due to a set of EPA-listed chemical formulations based on Quaternary Ammonium Compounds – simply called Quats – as the active ingredient in the FloraLife disinfectant products, he explains. “Due to the activity on ‘oily’ or ‘fatty’ surfaces, these chemistries disintegrate the membranes of microorganisms thereby inactivating them. Therefore, these chemistries clean, sanitize and disinfect at the same time.”

The dirt on hand washing

FloraLife also recently developed the SOAP line. Available in liquid and powder forms, fragrance-free SOAP is individually packaged in single-use packets inspired by FloraLife’s flower food packet packaging technology. SOAP is ideal for travel kits; made from natural vegetable oils, it won’t dry out hands, it contains the right amount of soap to wash hands on the go, eliminating the need to touch public soap dispensers. The packets are lightweight, small and easy to carry and store. The packets are also easily and safely shareable. “Although disinfectants, lotions, and potions all containing more than 60 percent alcohol can be helpful, nothing quite does the job like soap can,” Allen says, explaining that soapy water destabilizes the components holding the

virus together, breaking it down. Soap contains fat-like substances known as amphiphiles, some of which are structurally very similar to the lipids in the virus membrane. “Much in the same way soap works to remove dirt from your skin, soap not only loosens the glue between the virus and the skin, but also the bond-like interactions that hold the proteins, lipids and RNA in the virus together. The virus is broken down and washed away,” he says. SOAP packets can be purchased online and shipped globally or by contacting a FloraLife representative.

Cleaner, sanitizer or disinfectant?

“There seems to be some confusion and a lot of misuse between the words cleaner, sanitizer and disinfectant,” Allen says. “In short, sanitizers reduce bacteria on a surface by at least 99.9 percent. Disinfectants kill a wider range of microorganisms than sanitizers, and cleaners simply remove dirt, soils, and impurities from surfaces.” Here’s another breakdown based on information supplied by FloraLife: EPA Certification: In the US, sanitizers and disinfectants are regulated by the EPA and must be certified through a process that tests the product to meet certain pre-defined criteria. By law, a chemical product cannot be labeled as a sanitizer or a disinfectant unless and until it is EPA-certified. Germ Specificity: Both sanitizers and disinfectants must be tested against specific germs. Chemical labels must list out each and these germs individually. Sanitizers are certified for bacteria only, while disinfectants can also be certified to kill viruses, mold, mildew, and fungi. Time to Kill: The time it takes to kill germs is one more factor that is important when evaluating both sanitizers and disinfectants, and this must also be listed on the product label. Some chemical formulas kill respective germs in five minutes and others in one minute or less. This is called “dwell time” and should be taken into account when choosing and using sanitizers and disinfectants for various applications. Cleaners Remove Dirt: Cleaners are simple and straightforward. They represent a broad category of products that use soap or detergents to physically remove dirt and soil from surfaces. Cleaning does not kill germs. It simply removes them. The EPA does not test or regulate cleaners for effectiveness. That being said there are definitely different qualities and strengths of cleaners. www.pax-intl.com | PAX TECH | 29

CABIN HYGIENE

A balanced future CTT Systems AB, which has been providing aerospace products for aircraft humidity and condensation control for more than 20 years, tells PAX Tech how cabin air quality plays a role in creating a healthy and safe environment for passengers

CTT Systems Cabin Humidification system process

by JANE HOBSON

CTT Systems Zonal Drying system process

rom seating to inflight entertainment and connectivity, this issue of PAX Tech examines the intelligent innovations that help the industry adjust to the irreversible impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Headquartered in Nyköping, Sweden, CTT Systems AB provides a solution to another, less visible dilemma facing the industry: cabin air too dry for passengers’ to effectively fight off viruses and bacteria. CTT Systems supplies two subsystems that work in unison to deliver optimal humidity in the cabin: The Zonal Drying system and the Cabin Humidification system, explains Peter Landquist, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. The Zonal Drying system reduces the fuselage condensation that builds while inflight, Landquist says. When the aircraft lands, this frozen layer melts, creating excess water. Up to 300 kilograms of weight is trapped in the insulation blankets which has negative effects on reliability for parts, such as computers, antennas, sensors and connectors, Landquist says. The CTT system instead distributes dry air effectively

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preventing humid air from reaching the cold fuselage structures, benefitting both the aircraft and the environment, he says. The Cabin Humidification system increases cabin humidity to a comfortable level similar to that experienced on the ground. Humidifiers can be installed in specific zones, such as premium cabins, which are prone to dryness since there are fewer passengers. Water from the aircraft’s potable supply is applied to a pad within the humidifier which is integrated in the air conditioner supply duct for the cabin zone that is meant to be humidified. The system adds humidity to the aircraft ventilation system. As a result, passengers and crew experience less dryness in the mouth and nose on long-haul flights, maintaining the natural mucus barriers that help prevent germs and viruses from entering the body, Landquist explains. It also benefits the airline and environment by using the excess potable water while inflight avoiding the unnecessary dumping of unsoiled water. “The airlines have recognized that improved cabin humidity is needed for improved comfort, wellbeing and also

for passenger health as part of reducing the risk of catching a virus or bacterial infection,” Landquist says. “I also believe that future passengers, especially business travelers, [who may be] keen on wellbeing, health, being in shape when they meet their customers and family, will request these kinds of systems that improve the cabin environment.” Humidification selection from CTT Systems is offered on A350 and 777X for crew rest zones and First and Business class. The company has provided approximately 100 retrofitted VIP inflight Cabin Humidification systems for various 737s, 321neo and more. The retrofit humidifier design is EASA certified. Lufthansa has installed the Cabin Humidification system on all 14 A380 First Class cabins. For Zonal Drying system retrofit installation, CTT Systems has an agreement with Lufthansa Technik in Hamburg. Two other major airlines have selected the humidification system for A350 Business Class while two others have selected it for 777-9 First and Business Class.

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