South African Airways (SAA) and PriestmanGoode have unveiled the cabin designs for the carrier’s new A330-300 aircraft.
The designs include Business Class and Economy Class cabins, as well as entrance areas, brand panels and cabin branding throughout the aircraft.
The Business Class cabin features custom Thompson Vantage XL seats, each with direct aisle access. The look is designed in keeping with the Business Class seat on the A320 programme, with fabric-upholstered seats to provide a more comfortable environment for long journeys.
Custom features of the seat include an upholstered personal stowage area; a personal stowage shroud designed to create a distinct look for SAA which focused on integrating seat features such as passenger reading light and seat controls; and a monitor shroud designed to give the seat a more domestic appearance, including a soft stowage/stand for tablet devices for dual screening, as well as standard stowage purposes. The in-flight entertainment (IFE) is delivered on a 15-inch monitor, while a cocktail table seamlessly integrates with the rest of the seat
The Economy Class cabin features a custom Geven seat upholstered in fabric with a bespoke pattern inspired by contemporary African crafts. The cabin retains touches of vibrant blue on headrests and in stitching details.
Kim Thipe, Head of Marketing at South African Airways, commented: “In 2014, we began working with PriestmanGoode as part of a long-term programme to address the overall visual language of SAA across its passenger touch-points through a brand refresh.
“We wanted to create a strong identity that was both reflective of South Africa’s rich cultural heritage and designed to appeal to both domestic and international passengers. As a flag carrying airline, we understand that we represent people’s first and lasting impressions of South Africa, so investing in our passenger experience represents a commitment to our travellers.”
