
Aer Lingus – a member of International Airlines Group (a Headline Partner of APEX FTE EMEA and APEX FTE Ancillary & Retailing, Dublin, 10-12 June 2025, and a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub) – has partnered with RECARO Aircraft Seating to enhance passenger comfort with the inclusion of the R3 in its new A321XLR aircraft.
Equipped with the R3 long-range Economy Class seat, passengers will have access to an enhanced living space and comfort features. These include a 6-way adjustable headrest with integrated neck support, and comfort cushions and arm rests. The seats are outfitted with customised Aer Lingus dress covers and shamrock insignia, and feature a composite backrest with integrated monitor and USB charging ports. Additionally, all aisle seats include the redesigned RECARO patented steward step, facilitating easier access to overhead bins for both passengers and flight crew.
“The RECARO R3 seat ensures that customers flying on Aer Lingus’ state-of-the-art Airbus A321XLR aircraft enjoy enhanced comfort, space and convenience as they fly,” said Susanne Carberry, Chief Customer Officer, Aer Lingus. “With its lightweight design, the R3 perfectly balances sustainability and functionality. Featuring adjustable leather headrests, integrated neck support, USB charging ports, and a sleek, modern design, the R3’s innovative design helps Aer Lingus live up to our mission to deliver a seamless and relaxing journey for every customer.”
Developed with a lightweight design, the R3 aims to set the benchmark for weight in its segment, weighing nearly 2 kilograms less than its predecessor. The integration of a lighter, more sustainable seat aligns with the decarbonisation across International Airlines Group.
“At RECARO, we take pride in developing lightweight seating solutions that integrate seamlessly into the overall sustainability plans of our customers like Aer Lingus,” said Mark Hiller, CEO of RECARO Aircraft Seating and RECARO Holding. “The R3 not only enhances passenger comfort but supports our joint efforts towards a sustainable future. This partnership marks a significant milestone as we introduce the R3 into Aer Lingus’ A321XLR fleet.”
Hear more from Aer Lingus at the co-located APEX FTE EMEA and APEX FTE Ancillary & Retailing events, taking place in Dublin – the ‘Silicon Valley of Europe’ – on 10-12 June 2025. Enda Kavanagh, Product Manager (Inflight Customer Experience), Aer Lingus, is participating in a session focused on ‘Creating truly unique and memorable customer experiences – inspiration from across the globe’.
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