Cathay Pacific improves Economy Class Seating with LiveBack Technology

Steelcase's LiveBack seating technology is now available onboard Cathay Pacific flights. Featured in Cathay Pacific’s economy class seating, Steelcase’s LiveBack technology, initially patented for its high performance Leap office task chair, offers passengers a more comfortable travel experience.

The technology is designed to enable shape changing mimicking spinal adjustments for different positions and to reduce the chance of lower back sag and a hunched posture. It literally adapts to each individual’s one-of-a-kind spinal motion throughout the day. By conforming to Steelcase's unique "spineprints", the advanced technology offers improved comfort and support over extended periods of time.

“Economy class travel will be revolutionized by our new cabin design. In a world first, we have adapted technology usually associated with Business Class to re-establish personal space in Economy Class travel,” said Sarah Blomfield, Product Manager of Cathay Pacific. “Our new fixed back design allows a passenger to recline without intruding on those seated behind. The uniquely contoured back and the relocation of the literature pocket have also increased the space available for legs and knees.”

This is the second time Steelcase’s patented Leap seating technology has been licensed to a company outside of its own industry. The first licensing agreement was announced in early 2003 when Steelcase licensed the Leap technology to Johnson Controls for automotive seating.

The new seats in the economy class of Cathay Pacific are designed by B/E Aerospace Inc., one of the world’s leading suppliers of commercial and business jet seating. “Improving customer comfort is the primary goal for us,” said Tommy G. Plant, Vice President & General Manager, Seating Business for B/E Aerospace. “We are proud to be the only company licensed to provide the patented Leap technology in seats for the aerospace industry as we believe it significantly improves the flying experience for travelers.”

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