All Nippon Airways (ANA) will totally redesign its industry-leading First Class cabin for even greater comfort on long-haul international routes starting in December.

The centerpiece of New First Class is the "Wide Bed Seat," which will be enclosed for complete privacy. It will replace ANA's 180-degree Fullflat Seat, introduced in 1996 as the first seat of its kind in the world.

New First Class will be introduced on ANA's Boeing 747-400 routes to London, Frankfurt, Paris and New York, starting with Tokyo-London on December 1, ANA's 50th anniversary.

In development concept of New First Class, ANA conducted a survey of 5,000 of its top customers, for whom the two most desired features of an airline seat were "complete privacy," cited by 75% of respondents, and "horizontal recline like a bed." Based on these findings, ANA's design goal was a reclining, relaxing, comfortable seat enclosed in a "private room."

Features include:

World's Widest Bed Seat

o The seat is approximately 84cm wide, roughly 50% wider than existing ANA First Class seats, making it the world's largest airline seat.

o The armrests and seat combine to create a sleeping surface approximately 84cm wide by 196cm long, enough space for a tall person to roll over in comfort.

o Employs form-fitting Tempur ("pressure relief") cushioning for maximum comfort.

o Two pillows with silk coverings, down covers and, as a new service, sheets.

Single-Seat "Private Room" Configuration

o The previous two-seat layout is now a spacious single-seat configuration, with every seat enclosed for total privacy.

o The number of seats has been reduced to 10, from 14, arranged single file, with two seats in the center section.

o A movable divider separates the two center seats. By adjusting the divider, these seats can be used as a single pair seat.

World-Class Digital Entertainment

o Every seat is equipped with a 15" personal TV, the airline industry's largest.

o Digital AVOD (Audio and Video On Demand), providing interactive entertainment (20 movie and video channels, 28 music program channels [400 tunes/tracks] and 10 game channels).

o Noise-canceling headphones to block out engine and ambient noise.

o Personal telephone and electrical outlet for laptop computers

New à la Carte Menu

o As befits a "private room" setting, à la carte service will be introduced -- scheduled for spring 2003 -- enabling first class customers to select their favorite dishes at a specified time, and in a specified quantity according to their personal preference.

o A selection of new teas for refreshment and relaxation from "L' Epicier," the renowned French specialty shop. Select black, herb, Chinese and other quality teas.

Larger Lavatory, Changing Room

o The lavatory has been enlarged, and can be used comfortably as a changing room.

o In addition to its much more comfortable feel, the New ANA-designed lavatory sets the standard for aircraft lavatories, with crystal-blue sink and vanity mirror and special attention to lighting.

o A changing room space is provided, with curtains to ensure privacy.

ANA's New First Class Will Deliver Unmatched Comfort With the World's Widest, Most Private Airline Seat

*Search ASIA Travel Tips .com*	*24 October 2002*

ANA's New First Class Will Deliver Unmatched Comfort With the World's Widest, Most Private Airline Seat