Toulouse-based cabin supplier Stelia Aerospace has won a Red Dot Award in the Sustainable Product Design category for its Opera Essential premium Business Class seat.

Judges were impressed by the comparatively lightweight design of the product achieved by deleting some non-essential parts, such as replacing the electronic reclining mechanism with a mechanical one. In a section of the aircraft where individual seats can weigh more than 120kg, the Opera Essential slashes weight, reduces part count and increases the simplicity of recycling.

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“It is a privilege to be selected from amongst such design-led companies who are at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.” says Thierry Kanengieser, VP Cabin Interior at SteliaAerospace. We continuously work to innovate and shape the future of a sustainable aviation seating industry while offering a premium passenger experience. Such recognition is a great source of motivation for our teams, fuelling our continued pursuit of excellence”

ontinued pursuit of excellence”