ACCESS is a lazy-Z design, a fixed back lounger with direct aisle access for all passengers; the design prioritizes aisle access and also has a higher cabin density than lie-flat seats. ACCESS is a concept from Factorydesign in the UK.
Why The Design ACCESS?
There is a strong opinion in the industry that long-haul single-aisle aircraft will be a significant growth area. There is also an increasing interest in these aircraft in response to the impact of the pandemic, due to the increased flexibility and route efficiency they can offer. Factorydesign believes that the single-aisle aircraft market will grow significantly in the coming years.
Not all airlines will want the space-hungry fully lie-flat bed option. Perhaps for some, a more dense product that still provides direct aisle access will be more appropriate. Making the premium element of the product the ability (or choice) to move without disturbing others, rather than a bed; this would be of particular value on routes where an aircraft may make up to four trips a day, three of which are daylight flights.
Factorydesign
Currently there is a significant gap between the lie-flat, direct aisle seats and the conventional 2-2 configuration.
We are confident that there is a market need for a high-density, and less space-hungry, premium seat for single-aisle aircraft; one that provides added features and enhanced passenger experience beyond a standard 2-2 configuration (typical in narrow-body Business Class), also one that allows for higher-density cabins than what is currently possible with full lie-flat Business Class seating.
Factorydesign
Photos: Factorydesign
How does meal time work with this concept?
I don’t see a clear path for the cabin crew to interact with the window passenger. Without standing over the aisle seat….
I can’t wait to be a grown up and fly I am still 11
Excellent articles, you never disappoint.
Terrific idea, but does it require more square feet per passenger than present Premium Economy layouts? Slots in between P.E. and Bussiness Class?
Would be interesting to see a spreadsheet of how many sq. ft. or (sq. meters) is alllocated to each individual in each class on every major airline. Exclude “common areas” like asiles, toilets, galleys, etc.,etc.
In short, how much turf is all mine.
Very good design absolutely comfortable and good for long flights like the one I take like from Dubai to LAX or Qatar airways flight to LAX or san fran USA.
Do see this as a Premium Economy product than a business. But a good design, as I think it has a more spacious feel to it than the standard 2 by 2 config. Think the future growth is in Premium Econ, and business may head towards a slow demise like First.
I could see this for Hawaii, but not any legit business class crossing an ocean or the equator. Smart travelers will simply book the widebody with a connection and get some sleep. Premium economy… Yes.
I think this is perfect for the new A321XLR for like 6-8 hour flights) with direct aisle access
At best I see this as a prem economy concept on wide body airliners. It’s not a big deal to step over someone n a 2×2 config.