Collins Aerospace and Panasonic Avionics have teamed up to create the MAYA seat concept, featuring a 45″ Curved OLED display that delivers an immersive in-flight experience. This innovative seat was unveiled at the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) on May 28, 2024.
By J Prakash
During his speech at AIX, Ken Sain, CEO of Panasonic Avionics, reflected on the evolution of passenger comfort. In the 1990s, airlines introduced motorized seats with adjustable headrests and footrests, followed by the first angled beds in the following decade. The 2010s saw the introduction of fully flat beds and advanced cabin layouts, including direct aisle access for business class passengers via the herringbone and reverse herringbone configurations, enhancing window access. The 2020s brought further advancements with the introduction of more private suites and OLED screens.
Sain noted that Panasonic Avionics and Collins Aerospace began their collaboration a year ago to develop the MAYA seat, specifically aimed at millennial and Gen Z travellers. This next-generation business class seat concept was designed to meet modern expectations.
Scott Masson, Vice President of Product Management, Portfolio Management, Strategy, and Marketing at Panasonic Avionics, explained that the MAYA seat transforms business class from traditional TV and headrest setups to a fully immersive digital experience with its 45″ 5K OLED screen. He highlighted that tech-savvy passengers would quickly adapt to the new seat, and even those less familiar with the latest technology would find it intuitive within minutes. He added that transitioning from the MAYA seat to a standard business class seat would feel disappointing.
Masson emphasized that the MAYA seat enhances the premium class experience, giving airlines a competitive edge. He stated that on routes where multiple airlines operate, those with traditional business class offerings would find it hard to match the advanced experience provided by MAYA.
In a joint statement, Collins Aerospace and Panasonic Avionics described MAYA as a product of their combined expertise in design, technology, and integration, resulting in a comprehensive solution. The business class seat boasts exceptional ergonomics with advanced seating architecture and ARISE comfort technology, which automatically optimizes cushion pressure, regulates temperature, and minimizes vibration during flights.
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