Demand for cabin branding elements has risen in line with the exceptional rebound in demand for air travel post-pandemic, suggest experts at cabin interior specialist, Bucher.
In July, the company delivered the first sets of premium branding elements for the incoming fleet of Korean Air’s Boeing 787-10s. The elements are aimed at enhancing the aircraft's interior aesthetics and functionality. Bjoern Meier, Bucher’s program manager for sales and program management for galleys, says branding retrofits are currently a major trend, as airlines strive to differentiate their brand identity with unique design elements.
“It is especially popular in both line-fit and retrofit programs and we have the expertise to handle both scenarios,” Meier tells Aviation Week Network. Additionally, he says Bucher often develops concepts that airlines can apply to their existing fleets as part of their retrofit programs after launching a new branding for their latest aircraft.
For the Korean Air project, Bucher chose standard aviation materials for the base structure to ensure compliance with strict safety and regulatory requirements, including fire safety standards. The project included elements such as thermoformed panels featuring custom logos. The panels were also installed at the entrances to Korean Air’s lounges. “These elements, along with the fine-tuning of lighting effects within the aircraft cabin, underscore the critical balance between aesthetic appeal, safety and precision,” he says. “These panels are designed to enhance brand visibility, ensuring that passengers immediately recognize the brand upon boarding.”
Meier notes that the look and feel are important for the visible surfaces, and Bucher used exclusive materials for the Korean Air project. “Integrating creative design concepts into aviation can be challenging, particularly when working with new material combinations,” he adds.
As new materials and processes are incorporated inside the cabin, new procedures for maintenance and upkeep may arise. “The primary focus in maintaining the branding panels is to ensure easy access to integrated LED lighting and all visible components for efficient replacement when necessary,” says Meier. “Although regular maintenance is uncommon, airlines take a conservative approach to their branding elements, making accessibility for repairs and adjustments essential.”
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