Thompson Aero Seating is reporting an upsurge in interest from airlines regarding new twin-aisle projects, for platforms such as the A330 and B787 in readiness for an anticipated 2024 recovery.

Thompson said its airline customers are looking at the refreshed VantageXL, which has been enhanced and enriched in 2022 in terms of personal living space, a fully flat horizontal bed, and 100% direct-aisle access and includes the option for fully enclosed suites and a ‘Business Plus’ enhanced front row.

“However,” Thompson said, “with OEM line-fit programmes taking typically between 24 and 30 months from the start of the project to the first aircraft delivery, airlines will need to start these projects now to have the capacity available for 2024, when the market is predicted to be fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels.” For retrofit of existing aircraft, Thompson adds that while lead-times are often shorter, anything between 12 to 24 months depending upon the complexity and scope of the project, these again need to be started soon in order to support the recovery.

Andy Morris, vice president, commercial for Thompson Aero Seating, said: “It is really positive that we are seeing such strong recovery and renewed interest in wide-body aircraft. We have some exciting projects already underway and will be looking to increase our capacity based upon the current and forecast demand for our products.”