AIME 2010: Recaro looks to business/first-class hybrid

To date Recaro has focused successfully on the economy and business markets. “Now, as some carriers withdraw from the first-class market, we’re turning our attention to developing something that will appeal to the two-class operators,” says regional sales director Kay Follath.

  This is the company’s first time at AIME. “We’re at this show because in this region there’s a constant need to be present,” says Follath. “But we’re already strong in the Middle East, and have negotiations under way with potential new customers.”

Existing Recaro customers in the region include FlyDubai, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Etihad and Gulf Air.

Low-fare operator FlyDubai has ordered the company’s BL3510 lightweight economy seat for the six Boeing 737-800s it has in service, with three more due to arrive by June.

Qatar Airways is the launch customer for Recaro’s revolutionary new CL3620, designed to draw the sting of long-haul flights in economy. Derived from the established CL3610, it weighs less and offers what the company describes as exceptional   legroom. Like its predecessor, it is based on a single-beam structure designed to replace the two support beams of conventional designs and so provide extra space for the passenger. Qatar has ordered the seat, along with the CL4420 business product, for 20 new Airbus A320s and four A321s.

Saudi Arabian Airlines has ordered CL4420 along with the CL3510 economy product for eight new Airbus A330-300s, while Etihad plans to retrofit the same combination to a total of ten A319s and A320s. Gulf Air has selected CL3510 and the CL4400 business unit for 15 A320s, with further aircraft on option.