We are observing notable progress in the long-haul business class services provided by leading U.S. airlines. American Airlines has recently rolled out its latest Flagship Suite business class, while United Airlines is launching its new Polaris business class. Now, Delta Air Lines has formally introduced its new business class offering, set to be featured on the forthcoming Airbus A350-1000.
Delta has ordered 20 Airbus A350-1000s, which will serve as the airline’s premier aircraft. These planes will represent the largest in Delta’s fleet and will boast the most luxurious configuration. Regrettably, the initial delivery is anticipated in 2027.
The new business class suite will utilize the Thompson Aero VantageNOVA design. Approximately 50% of the seats on the A350-1000s will be premium, with business class expected to comprise about 50 seats. This marks the highest quantity of business class seats Delta has ever incorporated on a plane, although it still falls short of the 64 seats United has on its new 787-9s.
The VantageNOVA design provides adaptability, featuring a complete cabin in a 1-2-1 arrangement with reverse herringbone seats. This configuration ensures that window seats will face the windows, while center seats will be oriented toward the center.
Highlighted features of Delta’s new business class include:
– A bed roughly 3 inches longer than the previous Delta One suite bed, nearing 80 inches.
– A 24-inch 4K OLED screen, Bluetooth connectivity, along with USB-A, AC, and wireless charging options.
– Space for shoes, a phone tray located beneath the armrest, and an open storage area, albeit without enclosed storage.
– A pillow-top cushion positioned above the memory foam padded seat.
– Efficient and compact seating, allowing installation with as little as 40 inches of pitch.
– A snack bar adjacent to the second set of doors, providing beverages and snacks for travelers.
Delta’s selection of the VantageNOVA seat is noteworthy, considering that American and United are also introducing new business class seats, opting for the Elevate Ascent model. While Delta’s new seats bear similarities to the Elevate Ascent product, the comfort level is yet to be assessed as the VantageNOVA model has not yet entered service.
In summary, Delta’s new business class offering will incorporate enhanced technology, including Bluetooth audio, wireless charging, and expansive entertainment displays. However, regarding personal space, the product may not be revolutionary, as airlines face constraints on the space they can allocate to each passenger.
Delta’s new business class suites are scheduled to debut on the Airbus A350-1000s in 2027, with Delta as the inaugural customer for the Thompson Aero VantageNOVA design.