Zim Aircraft Seating recently secured a contract with an undisclosed widebody customer for their new premium economy seat. The reclining variant of this product, which is set to be launched with Air New Zealand, has generated high demand according to Zim’s CEO Sven Achilles. Customers have the option to choose between a heavier fixed-shell seat or a lighter recliner.
The new premium economy seat offers additional privacy elements, a feature that Achilles believes is crucial for customers in the post-pandemic era. Passengers are increasingly seeking personal space and privacy, which is reflected in the design of the new seat that includes ‘protective ears’ for added privacy. Zim is also integrating anti-microbial coatings on plastic surfaces to address hygiene concerns brought about by the pandemic.
Achilles emphasizes the financial benefits of investing in premium economy seating for airlines. While business class may generate more revenue, the square footage of premium economy seats makes them a strong business case. Zim has launched two new products to cater to this growing market segment.
The launch customers for both the reclining and fixed-shell variants of the new premium economy seat have already been secured, with the announcement of the widebody buyer expected soon. Following Zim’s acquisition of Haeco Cabin Solutions, the company has significantly expanded in size and production capacity. However, supply chain shortages and aircraft delivery delays from OEMs have posed challenges for the company.
Achilles highlights the importance of attracting and retaining skilled labor to sustain Zim’s growth. He believes that innovative thinking is required in these areas to build the company’s capacity further. Despite current challenges, Zim is optimistic about its future prospects and aims to continue providing innovative seating solutions to the aviation industry.
In conclusion, Zim Aircraft Seating has recently secured a contract with an undisclosed widebody customer for their new premium economy seat. The reclining variant of this product has generated high demand according to Achilles while both versions offer additional privacy elements and anti-microbial coatings on plastic surfaces to address hygiene concerns brought about by the pandemic.
Zim has launched two new products to cater to this growing market segment and has significantly expanded in size and production capacity following its acquisition of Haeco Cabin Solutions.
Despite supply chain shortages and aircraft delivery delays from OEMs, Achilles emphasizes the importance of attracting and retaining skilled labor to sustain Zim’s growth through innovative thinking.
Overall, Zim Aircraft Seating continues to provide innovative seating solutions to meet evolving customer needs in today’s post-pandemic era while continuing its growth trajectory towards becoming a leading supplier in
