British Airways First Class
by tangerine

British Airways has unveiled its next-generation First Class cabin, designed in collaboration with tangerine, Collins Aerospace, and other British partners. This ambitious project redefines modern British luxury at 35,000 feet, blending craftsmanship, privacy, and cutting-edge technology to create an unparalleled in-flight experience.

Tangerine’s design vision focused on understated elegance, ensuring every detail enhances both passenger comfort and crew efficiency. Drawing on insights from contemporary luxury hospitality and 25 years of experience working with British Airways, tangerine crafted a suite that serves as the perfect backdrop for impeccable service. The result is a refined and intuitive space where passengers enjoy complete control over their in-flight experience.

One of the standout features is the suite’s innovative seating arrangement, designed to evoke the feel of a plush armchair rather than a conventional aircraft seat. A fully variable recline mechanism, inspired by the automotive industry, allows passengers to tailor their posture with a touch interface, offering multiple pre-set positions for relaxation, dining, and sleep. The introduction of a fully rectangular bed, shaped based on customer feedback, ensures maximum comfort akin to a home environment.

Privacy and flexibility are central to the new design. The seat is set back from the door, maintaining discretion even when the suite door is open. For those travelling together, central suites open into each other to form a shared space, complete with side-by-side armchairs and a motorised floor-to-ceiling panel that transforms into a cosy lounge. Thoughtful storage solutions, including compartments lined with red leather and white stitching reminiscent of Savile Row tailoring, add a discreet touch of British eccentricity.

Lighting also plays a crucial role in enhancing the passenger experience. Tangerine collaborated with theatre lighting experts to create flattering, ambient illumination, with pre-set moods such as ‘relax’ and ‘cinema’ to suit different moments of the journey. The design team paid particular attention to materials, selecting sustainably sourced Muirhead leather for durability and suede-finished walls to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

From seamless technology integration to intuitive features, the new British Airways First suite embodies a modern interpretation of British luxury—sophisticated, effortless, and meticulously crafted to redefine premium air travel.

Interior Designer: tangerine (Design Consultancy), British Airways (Inhouse Design Team)