The first China Southern Airlines aircraft fully equipped with Recaro seats made its maiden flight on July 3, flying from Guangzhou to Shanghai Hongqiao.
It is the first of the twenty A350-900 aircraft of the airline with a full cabin of Recaro seats. The business class features Recaro CL6710 seats, while the premium economy and economy class come with PL3530 and CL3710 seats.
On the maiden flight to Shanghai, passengers experienced the new seats in all three classes - economy, premium economy and business. The business class seats are fitted in a 1-2-1 configuration, which means it gives all passengers direct access to the aisles. It is also the first line fit programme for the CL6710 seat on a A350 platform. The seat can be reclined into a full flatbed, offers ample space to the passenger and storage. The 18.5" monitor also provides gate-to-gate inflight entertainment.
The new aircraft's premium economy and economy class come with Recaro's PL3530 and CL3710 seats, respectively. The PL3530 provides premium economy passengers with ergonomic seating positions, good living space and additional storage options at a 38" pitch. Besides, its individually-adjustable calf rest adds more comfort.
At the same time, the CL3710 offers passengers in economy class ergonomic comfort. Its six-way headrest and neck support ensures optimal use for both shorter and taller passengers. It comprises inflight entertainment systems and USB outlets as well.
Dr. Mark Hiller, Recaro's CEO, said: "China Southern, the biggest Airlines in APAC, equips 20 of its A350-900 aircraft with full cabin Recaro seats; saying I am proud would be an understatement.
"We are very happy to contribute to the satisfaction of China Southern passengers by combining lightweight design with seating comfort and quality. As two strong and reliable brands, we both aim to always deliver the absolute best to our customers ? whether it be in business, premium economy or economy class."
The airline boasts more than 840 passenger and cargo transport aircraft and operates more than 3,000 daily flights to 224 destinations in 40 countries and regions across the world.