Airbus has unveiled a series of cabin updates for its popular A220 aircraft, offering enhanced features and increased passenger comfort. The changes, which bring the A220 into the Airspace cabin concept family, were announced at this year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) and are set to be available from 2025. Furthermore, the updates can also be retrofitted to existing A220 aircraft.
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of Airspace XL Bins, which provide 20% more capacity while reducing weight. This enhancement, supplied by Diehl Aviation, allows airlines to increase overhead storage capacity by approximately 19 additional passenger bags. The new bins bring the Airspace design language to the A220 cabin, contributing to a harmonized and elevated passenger experience.
Alongside the XL Bins, Airbus will integrate a redesigned and improved passenger service unit (PSU) provided by Astronics, as well as an enhanced ceiling that further showcases the Airspace design language. These updates aim to enhance the ambiance, comfort, service, and design elements that have become synonymous with the Airspace concept.
Paul Edwards, Head of Advanced Cabin Design at Airbus, expressed his satisfaction with the integration of Airspace features into the A220 cabin. He stated, “Through the introduction of the A220 XL Bins, we have further improved this harmonization by integrating the Airspace design language and bringing us one step closer to the elevated passenger experience that our A350, A330neo, and A320neo customers are already accustomed to.”
Additionally, airlines will have the option to include an optional third LED light beneath each XL bin, creating an onboard ambiance aligned with the Airspace concept.
Apart from the increased capacity and improved aesthetics, the Airspace XL Bins offer several benefits to airlines. These include increased reliability, reduced maintenance requirements, and a weight reduction of around 300 lbs (136 kg), leading to lower operational costs. The bins also feature a simplified mechanism for opening and closing, resulting in a better passenger experience and faster turnaround times.
The A220 program has already gained significant traction, with over 250 aircraft in service and a growing number of operators worldwide. Delta Air Lines, the largest A220 customer, and airBaltic, an all-A220 airline, are among the operators benefiting from the aircraft’s efficiency and passenger appeal. Excitement is also building around rumors of an A220-500 variant, with analysts speculating that Airbus could unveil the new design at the upcoming 2023 Paris Air Show. The stretched -500 model would accommodate up to 170 passengers, further expanding the A220 family’s versatility and market appeal.
As Airbus continues to enhance the A220’s capabilities and cabin offerings, the aircraft remains a game-changer in the industry, attracting both airlines and passengers with its exceptional performance and passenger-centric design.