**Delta’s Upcoming Business Class: A Glimpse into the Future of Luxurious Air Travel**
In recent times, leading US airlines have been upgrading their long-distance business class services, with American Airlines launching its Flagship Suite and United Airlines gearing up to present its new Polaris business class. Delta Air Lines is also advancing with its forthcoming business class offering, slated to feature on its new Airbus A350-1000s.
**Delta’s Airbus A350-1000 and VantageNOVA Seating**
Delta has placed an order for 20 Airbus A350-1000s, which will serve as the airline’s premier aircraft. These planes are anticipated to be the most elite in Delta’s fleet, with deliveries set to commence in 2027. The new business class suite will include the Thompson Aero VantageNOVA product, a versatile seating solution with possible configurations such as reverse herringbone and hybrid setups. Delta intends to accommodate 50-53 business class seats on these planes, the highest number it has ever installed on a single aircraft.
**Creative Seating and Arrangement**
The VantageNOVA seats present versatility with two design options: either all seats in a reverse herringbone formation or a hybrid layout with window seats oriented towards the aisle and center seats facing inward. This product is crafted for efficiency, offering seats with a minimum pitch of 40 inches. Moreover, Thompson Aero assures a “business class plus” variant for the front row, utilizing additional space for improved comfort.
**Delta as a Likely Launch Customer**
The VantageNOVA product was revealed in 2024 and has not yet been put into service. Thompson Aero has refrained from revealing its launch customer, but speculation suggests that Delta might be the premier airline to adopt these seats. This is in line with Delta’s established collaboration with Thompson Aero, as demonstrated by the Vantage XL seats on its A350-900s.
**Comparison with Rivals**
While American and United have chosen the Adient Ascent product for their new business class features, Delta’s selection of the VantageNOVA seat underscores its dedication to providing a distinct and customizable experience. The trend for contemporary business class seating leans more towards features such as privacy doors and cutting-edge seat technology, rather than simple comfort enhancements.
**Conclusion**
Delta’s rollout of the Thompson Aero VantageNOVA seats on its Airbus A350-1000s represents a crucial advancement in refining its business class service. With deliveries anticipated in 2027, Delta is set to provide a premium travel experience that mirrors the latest developments in luxury air travel. As the inaugural customer for this groundbreaking seating, Delta is poised to redefine its long-distance business class services.