Collins Aerospace and Air Canada have announced that the carrier's new fleet of Airbus A321XLR aircraft will be furnished with Collins' seating solutions. Fourteen Aurora business class suites will be installed at the front of the aircraft while 168 Meridian+ main cabin seats will fill out the economy cabin.
"Aurora is designed to provide a widebody business class experience on single-aisle aircraft, offering passengers the comfort, space and privacy expected on long-haul flights," said Cynthia Muklevicz, vice president of Global Airlines and Lessors for Collins Aerospace. "By integrating the suites, monuments and galley space into a unified architecture, we're able to make better use of the cabin footprint while maintaining passenger comfort and the service capabilities airlines need to deliver a true premium experience."
The design of the Aurora suite provides an extra row of seating and expanding galley capacity to accommodate the catering volume necessary for long-haul service.
"Our primary goal was to elevate the in-flight experience by creating a space that feels exceptionally inviting and highly personal," said John Moody, managing director of On-Board Product for Air Canada. "With the Aurora suite, we are setting the standard through the thoughtful use of space, technology, bespoke materials and finishes. Our meticulous attention to detail offers our customers a true retreat."
The first of 30 Air Canada A321XLRs will enter service this spring, with customer demonstrations of Aurora and Meridian+ to be held this week at Aircraft Interiors Expo.