The ITB event going on at Berlin witnessed some excitement when the Qatar Airways unveiled its seat configuration for its Boeing 787 dreamliner aircraft. The aircraft will have a total of 254 seats in two class configuration. There will be 232 economy and only 22 business class seats which is two less than the other airlines but provides more space and features to the passengers. The layout of the business class has a 1-2-1 configuration which ensures that every seat has direct aisle access. The seating has been designed exclusively for Qatar Airways. The seat in the business class is a 22 inch armchair. It can be controlled and operated mechanically and with a touch of a button it can take on different cradle positions. It can be converted into an 80 inch long and 30 inch wide flat bed when you want to sleep.
The entertainment system is an upgrade and will debut on the B787. It has a touch screen Android technology control unit with a 17 inch monitor. The passengers travelling business class will have access to over 1,000 movies, TV programs, music and gaming entertainment options. The dual screen interface of the control unit allows passengers to play games on their handheld device while watching movies on their personal screen. The passengers will be have access to Wi-Fi and GSM telephony. Even voice calls are possible but only text and MMS messages will be allowed at the moment to minimize passenger disruption.
The business class passengers will have ample storage space in a drawer and a side compartment. Wood-trimmed sliding tables provide ample space for dining and working. Akbar Al Baker, the CEO of Qatar Airways is confident that it will provide a whole new passenger travel experience.
