Edelweiss Air has been confirmed as the first European airline to introduce Thompson Aero Seating’s (TAS) latest VantageXL+ business class seat, developed specifically for the Airbus A350 fuselage.
The new seat will be officially unveiled today, with aircraft deliveries and retrofits scheduled for late 2026. Edelweiss will install the VantageXL+ across its A350 fleet in a 1-2-1 layout, accommodating 32 passengers per aircraft and offering full direct-aisle access.
The VantageXL+ is the newest evolution of the widely adopted VantageXL platform, featuring design refinements aimed at maximising personal space and comfort within the A350 cabin. Enhancements include expanded footwells, re-sculpted internal walls for increased knee clearance, redesigned suite top rails to improve living space, and optimised IFE monitor positioning for a more immersive viewing experience.
Edelweiss Business Suite: first-class comfort in a business cabin
A key highlight of the cabin is the enhanced front row, branded as the ‘Edelweiss Business Suite’. This four-seat configuration delivers a first-class-style experience while maintaining the density of an all-business-class layout.
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These suites feature closable doors, 32-inch IFE monitors, and adjustable centre dividers in the middle seats, allowing flexibility for passengers travelling together. As with all VantageXL+ seats, each suite converts into a fully flat bed.
‘Edelweiss Business’ seats emphasise flexibility and wellbeing
The remaining 28 seats, branded as ‘Edelweiss Business’, showcase the modular flexibility of the VantageXL+ platform. Edelweiss has selected aisle-side privacy shields, extensive personal stowage, generous work and relaxation space, and 17.3-inch monitors.
Passenger wellbeing has been a central design focus, with the airline also customising colours, trim and finishes to reflect the Edelweiss brand identity.
Commenting on the programme, Andy Morris, Chief Commercial Officer at Thompson Aero Seating, said the VantageXL+ represents a further step in refining a proven platform to meet evolving airline and passenger expectations.
“With a wide range of amenities, stowage solutions and integration of the latest IFE technologies, VantageXL+ delivers exceptional comfort,” Morris said. “We are delighted to partner once again with Edelweiss on this distinctive A350 customisation.”
The announcement further strengthens the VantageXL family’s position as one of the most widely adopted business-class seating platforms in the long-haul market.
FAQs
What is the Thompson VantageXL+ seat?
The VantageXL+ is the latest evolution of Thompson Aero Seating’s popular VantageXL business class platform. It has been specifically optimised for the Airbus A350, offering increased personal space, improved ergonomics, and enhanced IFE positioning.
Which airline is the first in Europe to introduce VantageXL+?
Edelweiss Air is the first European airline to announce the introduction of the VantageXL+ business class seat on its Airbus A350 aircraft.
When will Edelweiss introduce the new business class seats?
Edelweiss is expected to begin taking delivery of its A350 aircraft fitted with the VantageXL+ seats in late 2026, with the seats retrofitted across its A350 fleet.
How many seats will be installed on each aircraft?
Each A350 will feature 32 VantageXL+ seats arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing all passengers with direct aisle access.
What is the Edelweiss Business Suite?
The Edelweiss Business Suite is a premium front-row configuration comprising four enhanced VantageXL+ seats. These suites feature closable doors, large 32-inch monitors, and adjustable centre dividers, delivering a first-class-style experience within a business class cabin.
FAQs
What is the Thompson VantageXL+ seat?
The VantageXL+ is the latest evolution of Thompson Aero Seating’s popular VantageXL business class platform. It has been specifically optimised for the Airbus A350, offering increased personal space, improved ergonomics, and enhanced IFE positioning.
Which airline is the first in Europe to introduce VantageXL+?
Edelweiss Air is the first European airline to announce the introduction of the VantageXL+ business class seat on its Airbus A350 aircraft.
When will Edelweiss introduce the new business class seats?
Edelweiss is expected to begin taking delivery of its A350 aircraft fitted with the VantageXL+ seats in late 2026, with the seats retrofitted across its A350 fleet.
How many seats will be installed on each aircraft?
Each A350 will feature 32 VantageXL+ seats arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing all passengers with direct aisle access.
What is the Edelweiss Business Suite?
The Edelweiss Business Suite is a premium front-row configuration comprising four enhanced VantageXL+ seats. These suites feature closable doors, large 32-inch monitors, and adjustable centre dividers, delivering a first-class-style experience within a business class cabin.
