Examples of our pioneering R&D include the introduction of 3-point restraints, relaxed TTL positions and suite doors for business class and, with the VantageSOLO, a ground-up design for all direct-aisle access full-flat seats for single-aisle.
Our latest innovation, VantageDUO, was launched to the industry as a concept in 2022 and is revolutionary in bringing efficient and superior levels of comfort to the long-range single-aisle market through its clever design and engineering.
Thompson is constantly looking to evolve and improve the options available for aircraft seating, pushing expectations and providing previously unthinkable solutions and advancements. We are persistently first to market with new products.
The first design concept of the fully horizontal flat-bed Vantage seat by James Thompson with manufacture under licence to Delta Air Lines and SWISS.
BMI became the first customer for the ground-breaking Vantage seat.
Thompson’s first production facility was secured in Northern Ireland.
The first aircraft to be fitted with Vantage seats.
The Vantage seating configuration meant the JetBlue A321 was the first to be fitted with suite doors.
Entry into service of the Thompson VantageXL.
Seeing its huge potential, AVIC completed the purchase of Thompson Aero Seating.
Entry into service for the VantageXL suite with Delta
First integrated first- and business-class cabin
Delivery of the Delta One A350 Thompson VantageXL Suite, the first all-suite business-class cabin and a Crystal Cabin Award winner.
The first seat for single-aisle aircraft with direct-aisle access and a fully horizontal flat bed.
The first A330 with all cabin suite-door installation, thanks to the VantageXL seat.
JetBlue takes delivery of the first VantageSOLO, a ground-breaking full-flat, all direct-aisle access business-class seat specifically for single-aisle aircraft.
Fully relaxed without being fully flat, the VantageDUO is a ground-breaking new seat that offers maximum comfort to the long-range, single-aisle market, with no compromise on density.
A major investment in a world-class facility that will catapult Thompson Aero Seating into a new era of development, innovation and sustainability.
Making a new era of innovation in the aircraft seating industry across Ireland and Great Britain, our Dynamic Test Facility opened on 18th October 2023, with the unveiling of a plaque by Jayne Brady, Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service.
Building works have been completed, and on-site testing has officially commenced at Banbridge, County Down.
The Dynamic Test Facility provides Thompson with the capability to certify new products for airworthiness and to carry out pioneering research and development work, without ever leaving the factory.
In-house dynamic testing capability means greater opportunities for innovation. Designs can be optimised to feed innovation, reduce weight, and improve sustainability. Immediate access to the facility will cuts lead times.
Research, development and innovation allow for weight reduction and a reduced carbon footprint of the seats in flight. On-site testing results in a dramatic reduction in shipping and travel to overseas facilities.
Until now, there was no Dynamic Test Facility on the island of Ireland, with the nearest appropriate options being in Europe and North America.
AVIC Cabin Systems, Invest Northern Ireland, Ladders, Local council
Supported by local MPs, Councillors, Sharing in Growth, and business leaders
The Dynamic Test Facility is now open and testing has already begun.
