Gulf carrier Qatar Airways has unveiled an “enhanced” economy seat with a semi-fixed back shell design that will allow it to recline 19 degrees without annoying the passenger behind.
The new seat will also allow passengers to recline 6 degrees on take-off and provides a new slimline design that gives “enhanced legroom”, a 13.3-inch high-resolution 4K screen and USB C ports with high power fast charging capabilities.
There had been speculation the airline would introduce a revolutionary new economy configuration but the seats are designed for standard rows.
Add to that an adjustable, lightweight headrest, dual function tables, and high-speed broadband and the airline may be the one to beat for economy passengers.
The seats, unveiled at ITB Berlin, will initially be on the airline’s new Airbus A321 neos but will be installed on other new aircraft and rolled across the fleet over coming years.
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The new seat will be accompanied by a new meal service, dubbed Quisine, that will offer more choice and bigger portions. This will see appetizers that are 20 percent bigger than today, main courses that are 25 percent bigger and deserts that are 50 percent larger.
Quisine will also feature a significant increase in rotable, recyclable and biodegradable products and reduction in single-use plastic
Qatar Airways chief executive Akbar Al Baker said the new seat proved the airline’s commitment to providing the finest experience extended beyond premium classes to all passengers.
“Our new Economy Class seat, with its redesigned recline system and additional leg room, will ensure that our passengers in Economy Class arrive at their destinations feeling rested and refreshed,’’ he said.
The airline also revealed seven new destinations to be launched in 2019: Lisbon, Portugal; Malta; Rabat, Morocco; Langkawi, Malaysia; Davao, Philippines; Izmir, Turkey; and Mogadishu, Somalia.
Qatar Airways previously used ITB, which this year features travel exhibitors from more than 180 countries, to unveil its award-winning Qsuite.
