Hubei Hangyu Jiatai Aircraft Equipment (‘Jiatai’), the China-based aircraft seating manufacturer, exhibited at this year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg to present its latest range of seats, spanning economy, premium economy, and business class across single-aisle and twin-aisle platforms.
The JT220B/E series business class / premium economy seats were the centrepiece of the exhibit, as they form the company’s mainstream product line, designed in partnership with Factorydesign around a human-centred comfort philosophy. Jiatai says the seats provide lumbar, back, and head support based on the natural curves of the human spine, increased knee space, breathable cushions, adjustable headrests, and silent slide rails. The seats also feature phone holders and multi-protocol fast-charging ports, including USB-A and USB-C connections.
Also on display were the JT520E economy-class platform, the upgraded JT220B Premium electric business-class seat, the upgraded JT220B S and JT220E S regional business-class seat platforms, and a concept seat presented as representing future design trends. Both electric and mechanical adjustment options are available.
In terms of environmental performance, Jiatai is pursuing lightweight design across its seating range to support fuel savings and emissions reductions. The company is also developing sustainable options, including biodegradable tray tables and coconut-fibre foam cushions, with certification and application work already underway for the retrofit market.
Jiatai has secured partnerships with VietJet Air, Air Arabia, Flyadeal, and Ethiopian Airlines on projects involving the Airbus A321, A330 and A350. The company says it has secured cumulative orders for seats on more than 100 new aircraft, with production planning extending to 2030.
A Jiatai representative said the company plans to increase its investments in research and development, build its intellectual property portfolio, and further optimise its product structures. The company aims to advance human-centred design and intelligent upgrading of aircraft seats, covering support systems, adjustment functions, and in-cabin interaction.
