Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • Thompson Aero Seating launches VantageNOVA First

Aerospace Events

Thompson Aero Seating launches VantageNOVA First

Thompson Aero Seating will be officially launching its new VantageNOVA First at Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) 2025, 8th-10th April, Hamburg Messe.

Image courtesy Thompson Aero Seating

Seamlessly incorporated into the front row of the VantageNOVA platform, this enhanced business-class experience offers a clever first-class clever configuration suite environment for a greater sense of space and luxury, within the same footprint as an all-business-class cabin.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle

Star Configuration
Thompson has utilised the reverse herringbone central column to maximum effect to create a Star Configuration, providing the opportunity for four passengers travelling together to enjoy a truly unique quad experience. With the seats oriented towards the centre of the aircraft, four passengers can dine or socialise in a comfortable, practical and friendly setting for relaxed conversation. The result is a flight experience like no other, with no impact to the cabin density.

To make this possible, Thompson has created secondary seating areas, or ‘buddy seats’, in the front row. A custom-designed automatic divider retracts downwards to unite neighbouring suites and an innovative mechanism connects two tables in the centre to form one large bespoke surface, which can be activated either by the passenger or by cabin crew.

The outboard columns of the Vantage NOVA First enhanced front row can similarly be used for dual socialising and dining, with a buddy seat and a choice of either herringbone or reverse herringbone seating arrangements.

Advertisement
ODU RT

In Bed Mode, the privacy divider can be raised and the secondary dual purpose seating areas provide an extended sleep surface for passengers to rest.

While the structure is seamlessly integrated within the business-class cabin, the CMF highlights the enhanced nature of the VantageNOVA First with a colour-break as a strong visual indicator to distinguish between the cabins. Heightened levels of luxury are presented in the VantageNOVA First with custom-created console counter tops, while distinctive, welcoming, premium-grade leather, expertly tailored throughout the seating areas, radiates warmth and sumptuousness.  

Andy Morris, Chief Commercial Officer, Thompson Aero Seating, said: “We are incredibly proud of the market’s response to our VantageNOVA platform. The launch of VantageNOVA First offers airlines even greater opportunity to provide truly unique experiences for their passengers.”

Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner
Acron Aviation signs A320 pilot training contract with Royal Brunei Airlines

Aerospace

Acron Aviation signs A320 pilot training contract with Royal Brunei Airlines

6 February 2026

Acron Aviation have signed a new multiyear contract with Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) to provide Airbus A320 full flight simulator (FFS) training at its Bangkok Training Centre (BTC), further strengthening Acron Aviation’s position as a leading global provider of pilot training solutions.

Hexagon introduces Hyperscan

Aerospace Defence

Hexagon introduces Hyperscan

6 February 2026

Hexagon has introduced Hyperscan, a portable and robust 3D scanning solution designed to deliver outstanding performance in complex industrial environments.

Westwire opens new Swindon facility

Aerospace Defence

Westwire opens new Swindon facility

6 February 2026

Westwire Harnessing has opened its second UK manufacturing facility in Swindon.

BAE Systems launches Launchpad incubator

Aerospace Defence

BAE Systems launches Launchpad incubator

6 February 2026

BAE Systems has launched Launchpad, a new technology incubator programme designed to take dual-use technologies beyond the defence sector and help cutting-edge innovations reach their full commercial potential.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Birmingham Airport aims to secure direct connection to New York

Aerospace

Birmingham Airport aims to secure direct connection to New York

6 February 2026

Birmingham Airport (BHX) has announced a targeted, financial support package on offer to airlines that looks to attract direct connectivity between BHX and New York, reinforcing the airport’s commitment to the growth of long haul into global markets.

ITSA sees UK connector sales rise in 2025

Aerospace Defence Security Space

ITSA sees UK connector sales rise in 2025

5 February 2026

The Interconnect Technology Suppliers Association (ITSA) has revealed its members reported sales in 2025 were up by 5% over 2024 but that orders and business to business sales, were flat.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB