J&C Aero receives EASA STC for extra catering space onboard Airbus A320 family

J&C Aero received a new EASA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC No. 10087061) for an Airbus A320 Family cabin enhancement developed for the Estonian leisure airline Marabu. The certificate covers the development and integration of underbin closets, as well as cabin reconfiguration to optimize onboard catering capacity in high-density aircraft layouts.

Maxim Jurkov, Head of Design at J&C Aero commented: “The underbin solution was developed with operational practicality in mind. It’s a compact yet impactful upgrade that gives operators easy customisation based on changing needs in today’s ultra-competitive short- and mid-haul market.”

Diana Strauss, Director of Customer Journey at Marabu Airlines stated: “At Marabu, we design our product with a clear focus on our guests and an openness to new ideas. The new storage unit from J&C Aero is a perfect example: as the first of its kind, it creates additional space for catering and equipment, improves workflows for our crews, and enhances our operational flexibility. This solution combines innovation with customer focus – and is therefore a perfect fit for Marabu.”

With modern aircraft such as Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX increasingly delivered in denser configurations, galley space is often reduced to accommodate additional passenger seating and lavatories. This reduction poses a challenge for airlines aiming to maintain extended catering services – particularly during peak summer operations, when aircraft are flown at full capacity.

To address this, J&C Aero’s DOA team designed a modular underbin stowage unit that increases catering and storage capacity without requiring major cabin modifications. The unit mounts directly onto existing seat tracks and supports various use cases, including galley trolleys, meal boxes, crew and emergency equipment, as well as passenger belongings. It can be installed either temporarily or permanently, offering operators enhanced operational flexibility.

The new underbin closet was developed and tested internally by J&C Aero’s DOA and R&D teams, introduced to Marabu Airlines during Aircraft Interiors Expo 2025 in Hamburg, and is now fully certified by EASA. The first installations have already been completed by J&C Aero’s Part 145 team in Germany.

This STC marks another end-to-end delivery through the J&C Aero Interior Hub – spanning design, certification, production, and integration – reinforcing the company’s role as a full-cycle cabin solutions provider.