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
PTC 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
Security & Policing Rectangle

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
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.

CAA sets guidance on emissions information

Aerospace

CAA sets guidance on emissions information

5 February 2026

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has today published a new framework that sets out guidance and principles on the information airlines and other booking organisations should provide to passengers.

Returning to STEM after career break becomes harder than ever

Aerospace Defence Security Space

Returning to STEM after career break becomes harder than ever

4 February 2026

Returning to STEM industries after a career break is now harder than ever, according to new research by STEM Returners, with bias against gender, age, ethnicity and a lack of recent experience penalising highly qualified people from getting a job.

Aston University and Aurrigo to enhance AVs with AI

Aerospace

Aston University and Aurrigo to enhance AVs with AI

4 February 2026

Aston University has joined forces with Aurrigo, to develop AI to make its airport autonomous vehicles (AVs) fleet even more efficient, responsive and sustainable.

Advertisement
ODU RT
IBA and STS launch asset management and advisory partnership

Aerospace

IBA and STS launch asset management and advisory partnership

4 February 2026

IBA Group Limited and Shannon Technical Services (STS) have announced a new partnership designed to meet increasing demand from aircraft lessors, airlines and MROs for integrated aircraft data, advisory and technical support services.

UK-Japan partnerships advance quantum and future connectivity tech

Aerospace Defence Security Space

UK-Japan partnerships advance quantum and future connectivity tech

4 February 2026

Joint investments will advance quantum technology, boost digital connectivity and strengthen network resilience against cyber threats.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB