Thompson Aero Seating (TAS) is expecting a very busy AIX 2026. In just three days, the company plans to reveal enhancements to existing seating ranges, the development of a new seating product and announcements about new customers.

Keith Anderson, CEO of Thompson Aero Seating, said: “AIX 2026 is going to see the culmination of a great deal of hard work resulting in an extremely busy three days of announcements regarding new seats, new innovations and new customers.”

On the stand

VantageXL⁺ range

With the VantageXL⁺ recently being introduced specifically for the A350 and B787, TAS will,at AIX 2026, now reveal the VantageXL⁺ First, for the very first time. Features of this newest iteration include extended bed-level cushioning, a floating outboard armrest and cocktail surface, and overhung doors to maximise interior living space. The VantageXL⁺ First is configurable with fixed privacy screens and has the option for a zero-g seating position. Thompson was, of course, the first seating manufacturer to introduce an enhanced front row, or ‘First Class for Free’ as has been coined as the phrase for Thompson’s offering, back in 2017.

VantageNOVA range

Delivery of the very first VantageNOVA seats to the launch customer will be happening later this year and a number of other programmes are currently in progress with several other customers. TAS will showcase production-standard VantageNOVA seats in both herringbone and reverse-herringbone configurations. Also on display will be VantageNOVA First, a standout product and finalist in the 2026 Crystal Cabin Awards. The VantageNOVA rangehas now been put into TAS’s Project Echo colours for the very first time with a stunning rich moss green and tan for the enhanced front row.

VantageXL range

The VantageXL seat, VantageXL suite and VantageXL First will all be available on the stand. These permutations of the popular forward-facing seat for twin-aisle aircraft will demonstratethe many configurations, customisations and latest innovations available, with the VantageXL for the A330 and the VantageXL⁺ for the A350 and B787. The TAS team will be on hand to explain the integrated technology that is now offered on this and other seats in the Vantage family range, set to further increase passenger comfort and enjoyment.

VantageSOLO range

Meeting the requirements for single-aisle aircraft, the latest versions of the VantageSOLO,along with the VantageSOLO First, will be on display. Popular features that will be demonstrated include highly customisable stowage and either a bi-fold or single-leaf table.The stunning enhanced front row includes a buddy seat and a large, dedicated table so that passengers travelling together can relax, dine and socialise in a dual or quad environment.

Vantage

Last but never least is the Vantage – the seat that set the benchmark for the premium seating market. This has now been optimised for the A321 platform, giving extra room in the footwells and console area. The Vantage continues to attract new customers, with Thai Airways being the latest customer to launch.

Insights, out of sight

Known for making the most of industry knowledge and vital airline and passenger opinion to help define and refine the enhancements TAS makes to its seating range, the company will once again have a ‘coming soon room’ at AIX. This tactic proved invaluable to the development of the hugely successful VantageNOVA and a few lucky guests will be invited to once again share their opinions on a seat that is in development.

New customer announcements

TAS has several new customer announcements that will be made throughout the Show and beyond. These include new and returning airline customers revealing their customisation of the Vantage seating range

Andy Morris, Chief Commercial Officer for Thompson Aero Seating said: “AIX 2026 is perhaps our biggest and best show yet. We have so much to share with our airline customers, existing and prospective, and so much to launch to the industry. Exciting times are ahead.”

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