Welcome to another installment of Beyond Entertainment, where we delve into the latest innovations and trends in the aviation industry. In this episode, Andy Masson sits down with Nigel Goode, President and CEO of PriestmanGoode, to explore how changing passenger expectations and technological advances are reshaping aircraft interior design. They cover everything from revolutionary seating concepts to the sustainable materials transforming the in-flight experience.
Aircraft interior design has undergone a remarkable change since PriestmanGoode's first aviation project with Virgin Atlantic in 1999—developing the airline's pioneering lie-flat upper-class seat. This innovation marked a pivotal moment, shifting focus from simple trim and finish to elevated enhancements in passenger comfort.
As Goode explained, the A380 represented another watershed moment, expanding design possibilities with features like bars and showers to redefine flagship offerings. While the market later matured around variations of reverse herringbone and staggered configurations, the industry is at a new inflection point with the launch of Maya, a collaboration between Panasonic Avionics, Collins Aerospace, and PriestmanGoode that promises to redefine the business-class experience.
Sustainability informs so much of today's design innovation, though Goode pointed out that the industry also faces pressure to deliver immediate solutions. PriestmanGoode has responded by partnering with Lantal to implement deep-dyed carpet technology, dramatically reducing waste by eliminating the significant excess material traditionally required for sampling.
The Swiss textile specialist is also introducing knitted fabrics similar to those used in premium athletic footwear, designed to perfectly fit seat covers with minimal waste. These advancements in textiles complement broader initiatives to reduce single-use plastics and reimagine onboard service items through locally sourced, sustainable alternatives—work that has been showcased at the Design Museum in London and continues to influence global airline practices.
As Goode noted, today's challenge lies in determining which innovations truly enhance the passenger experience. The future of aircraft interior design requires a delicate balance, especially with development cycles spanning two to five years and service lives extending beyond seven years. Today's decisions must anticipate the preferences of tomorrow's passengers, particularly Gen Z and Gen Alpha travelers who have grown up in a digital-first world.
Goode emphasized that success demands close collaboration between design partners to achieve optimal results. The company's expertise in VIP aircraft interiors has opened new possibilities for commercial aviation, allowing it to explore new materials and finishes that can improve the passenger experience while meeting stringent certification requirements.
Airlines will continue to demand more from their suppliers, not less. This means developing more flexible products that allow for customization while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Through early engagement between airlines, suppliers, and design partners, the industry can ensure that every touchpoint in the passenger journey reflects the airline's brand and culture—creating spaces that will delight passengers for years to come.