Reinforcing its relationship with Virgin Atlantic, AIM Altitude has created the retrofit bars for the airline’s fleet of A330-300s. The project includes a full Door-2 zone, with cantilevered bar, Premium Economy self-serve destination feature, bar leaner and monitor, as well as feature panels for Upper Class and increased Door-1 stowages.
Ross Burns, group lead Industrial Designer for AIM Altitude, said, “Virgin Atlantic prides itself on being different and has a willingness to push the aviation community to achieve a new standard. AIM Altitude is often engaged in taking on challenges that exceed the limits of what is thought possible in commercial aviation. This is perhaps why we have formed such a good team over the years. Our history together makes us stronger; the relationship of brand and vision, combined with our ability to translate ideas into reality, forms a positive bond moving forward.”
The cantilevered bar-top features Corian panels backlit with theatrical lighting techniques to elevate and enhance the angular form of the bar design. Cabin compliance issues were overcome by careful assessment of angles and geometry. The addition of the forward monitor and bar leaner have created greater passenger capacity and flexibility for users.
All the textured panels are a complex pressure-formed plastic, using advanced tooling and pattern methods. Ceiling textures and angles have been crafted to create a harmonious blend of the vertical and horizontal surfaces and there is a smooth transition from the bins into the door, through a clever, chamfered pelmet design.
