A cabin concept for next-generation aircraft - FACC

The future of flying will be more sustainable, connected and barrier-free: At the international aviation trade fair AIX in Hamburg, FACC presented a radically new aircraft cabin concept which focuses on the needs of passengers - and is made of renewable materials.

The next generation of passenger aircraft will be setting new standards in terms of sustainability and passenger comfort. FACC AG caused quite a sensation at the international aviation trade fair AIX with the revamping of aircraft interiors. When creating the BIOS FUTURE CABIN, the main focus was placed on the needs of passengers and the use of sustainable materials. The company has opted for a resin derived from sugar cane, which has been optimized for use in aviation through intensive research work.

Passenger experience at the forefront

"When redesigning the aircraft interior, we paid particular attention to making efficient use of the available space," explains CEO Robert Machtlinger. The result: 20% more room to move and 50% more storage space compared to current-generation aircraft. This was made possible by a design approach that integrates seamlessly with the load-bearing elements of the aircraft.

In addition, large screens and intelligent surfaces offer a multimedia experience: the entire backrest is transformed into a screen that can be connected to the passenger's own device, if so desired, and can also play smartphone apps from third-party providers. Via a dedicated control center, each passenger can adjust the ventilation or individually configure design elements. 

Barrier-free flying

A 100% wheelchair-accessible cabin and a disability-friendly lavatory are also setting new standards with respect to barrier-free flying. “In terms of accessibility, there is, quite literally, still a lot of room for improvement in aviation," emphasizes Nico Langmann (world top 20 in wheelchair tennis). “Currently, not only the processes themselves, but also cabin designs are not always suitable for wheelchairs, which is why this new design is very promising.”

A completely new approach to materials

Ultra-light materials made from renewable resources will also drastically reduce the aircraft's CO2 emissions. To this end, a new lightweight material derived from sugar cane has been developed following many years of research. The properties of this material make it well-suited for use in aviation. Its surface is not only extremely robust, but also resistant to heat and chemicals.

New hygiene concept

A novel air curtain ensures that air is circulated within smaller cabin sections. With this innovation, FACC wishes to contribute to the safety of passengers by making aviation even more resistant to viruses and bacteria in the future.