High-tech inflight first for Airbus

In-flight trials of new developments in Internet of Things (IoT) connected cabin technologies have been initiated by Airbus on board a modified A350-900 aircraft – known as Flight Lab – and are due to be revealed shortly to customers.

Airbus has become the first aircraft manufacturer to undertake such flight-testing of actual connected cabin innovations. The platform, known as the Airspace Connected Experience, was unveiled at the APEX Expo last year.

Airbus says it will usher in a new personalised experience for passengers and provide opportunities for improving airlines’ ancillary revenues and operational efficiencies.

Flight Lab is one of the original A350-900 certification flight-test aircraft and is fitted with an Airspace cabin which now serves as a platform to evaluate the new connected cabin technologies in flight.

An initial set of working elements have been installed, including prototypes of the connected iSeat (Recaro), the Connected Galley (gategroup), a remote wireless cabin management control system and a large organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.

The elements also include the first step of Airbus’ new “IoT backbone” which includes an open software platform. The innovations are all now being tested in flight together with others due to be announced soon.

www.airbus.com

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