Innovative Concepts from 2019’s Crystal Cabin Awards

January 25, 2019

Panasonic Active Noise Control and Premium Seat Lighting

Credit: Panasonic

Panasonic Avionics submitted the technology from its new Wellness Suite as a contender for the awards, including active noise control and premium seat lighting. The built in active noise control, which will be available in business or first class seating modules, uses technology similar to that in noise-canceling headphones to reduce background aircraft noise. Meanwhile, the premium seat lighting technology mimics circadian rhythms and simulates sunsets, which Panasonic says will help passengers get more restful sleep and adjust to their destination time zone. At CES earlier this month, Panasonic told Aviation Week that both technologies are in production now and should be flying in approximately six months.

This year’s Crystal Cabin Awards received more than 100 entries—its largest contender list yet. The submissions in eight categories ranging from “Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity” to “Greener Cabin, Health, Safety and Environment” included a wide variety of lavish premium seating concepts, new technologies for lighting and lavatories, smarter materials and more. Here are some of the new innovations that we think could provide noticeable improvements or changes for aircraft cabin maintenance—as well as a few interesting ideas for passenger experience.

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