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
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The previous two-seat layout is now a spacious single-seat configuration, with every seat enclosed for total privacy.
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The number of seats has been reduced to 10, from 14, arranged single file, with two seats in the center section.
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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. |