Airlines are seeing delays in aircraft deliveries as Boeing and Airbus grapple with the installation of high-end first- and business-class seats. These premium seats, which promise greater luxury to passengers, require complex approval processes and have become a bottleneck in production.
High-Tech Seats Delaying Deliveries
New aircraft featuring ultra-luxurious seating options—such as heated and cooled seats, convertible beds, and privacy doors—are being delivered later than expected. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg noted at a recent industry conference that several 787 Dreamliners are awaiting seat installations before they can be handed over to airlines.
Similarly, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury acknowledged that delays in seat certifications and cabin “monuments” like galleys and storage units are preventing planes from being delivered fully equipped. The setbacks add further strain to an already challenged supply chain, exacerbated by a post-pandemic labor shortage.
Airlines Battling for Premium Customers
With airlines increasingly reliant on premium seating for higher revenue, these delays are causing frustration across the industry. Airlines are investing heavily in their high-end products, with companies like Delta Air Lines charging over $5,500 for first-class tickets on international routes, compared to standard economy fares of around $800.
The push for high-end seating reflects growing demand for luxury travel. Singapore Airlines, for instance, has announced plans to introduce first-class seats on flights exceeding 17 hours in duration, emphasizing the industry’s need to cater to affluent travelers.
Regulatory Challenges Compound the Issue
Obtaining approvals for high-tech seats isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about passenger safety. Seats must comply with emergency evacuation requirements, and the certification process has proven more time-consuming than anticipated. American Airlines, for example, has faced months-long delays in getting its premium cabin seats certified for its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
Luxury Travel Remains a Priority
Despite these challenges, airlines remain committed to premium enhancements. New business-class seat designs can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars each, yet airlines see them as a worthy investment given shifting consumer preferences.
Airlines such as JetBlue, Qantas, and Lufthansa continue to upgrade their premium offerings despite ongoing supply chain disruptions. Lufthansa’s latest Allegris cabins, for example, are currently awaiting certification before being implemented into the fleet.
A shift in industry trends is clear—premium travel is driving higher revenue, making it imperative for airlines to navigate and resolve these supply-chain hurdles efficiently.
