TAIWAN – China Airlines (CI) has announced plans to retrofit the cabins of its Airbus A350 fleet, following a growing trend among leading airlines in the Asia-Pacific region to upgrade their cabin offerings.
The Taiwanese carrier signed an agreement with Airbus on December 9, 2023, to retrofit 15 A350s with all-new cabin products. As reported by FlightGlobal, the first retrofitted A350 is expected to enter service in 2027, with the entire retrofit program scheduled for completion by 2028.
This cabin overhaul aims to provide a modern and luxurious experience for passengers while maintaining the airline’s signature Oriental aesthetic.
A Comprehensive Retrofit
China Airlines plans to upgrade all three cabins on its A350-900s. While specific details of the new design remain under wraps, the airline has stated that the new cabins will build on the “Oriental aesthetic” of its current interiors, which aims to create an emotional connection with passengers and reiterate the airline’s brand identity.
Key areas of the retrofit will focus on improving comfort and functionality for passengers. With the overhaul of the seating in all classes, the carrier aims to introduce more ergonomic and space-efficient designs.
In addition, there will be updates to the in-flight entertainment system, including larger screens, enhanced connectivity options, and an improvement in the cabin environment. These changes aim to elevate the travel experience for China Airlines’ passengers, aligning with modern expectations for both luxury and practicality.
The Airbus A350-900s currently in service with China Airlines features a three-class configuration, with 32 seats in business class, 31 in premium economy, and 243 in economy class. These aircraft are primarily deployed on long-haul routes, such as those to Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and North America, and are the workhorse of the airline’s long-distance fleet.
Cathay Pacific’s Aria Suite
China Airlines’ decision to retrofit its A350 fleet follows in the footsteps of other major carriers in the Asia-Pacific region. A notable example is Cathay Pacific (CX), which has recently rolled out its new business class, the Aria Suite, on its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
The Aria Suite features a significant upgrade over Cathay’s previous business class offering, which had been in service for over a decade with only minor updates. The new suite includes several luxury enhancements, including high seatback shells for increased privacy, adjustable dividers between center seats, and fully enclosed suites with closing doors for added comfort and seclusion.
Each Aria Suite is equipped with a 24-inch 4K ultra-high-definition screen, the largest in Cathay Pacific’s fleet, offering an immersive in-flight entertainment experience. Other notable features of the Aria Suite include wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and premium finishes, making it one of the most advanced business-class products in the market today.
Additionally, Cathay has also enhanced its premium economy and economy cabins, with upgraded seating, improved in-flight entertainment, and more power outlets throughout the aircraft.
Industry Trends: Asia-Pacific Airlines Modernizing Cabins
Cathay Pacific’s successful rollout of the Aria Suite and its fleet-wide retrofit has undoubtedly set a high benchmark in the industry. China Airlines, along with other leading carriers in the Asia-Pacific region, is following suit by upgrading its fleet to meet evolving passenger expectations.
As more airlines invest in luxury interiors, the competition to provide the best possible flying experience has intensified, particularly on long-haul international routes.
China Airlines’ A350 cabin retrofit will ensure that its passengers benefit from the latest in-flight technologies and more comfortable seating arrangements. By aligning its cabin offerings with those of other leading carriers, such as Cathay Pacific, China Airlines aims to maintain its competitive edge, providing an upgraded experience that attracts both business and leisure travelers alike.
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