The Crystal Cabin Award is one of the most prestigious prizes in the aviation industry, recognizing outstanding innovations in aircraft cabins that will shape the future of flying. Each year, the awards are presented in eight categories at the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg. From 72 innovations, the jury has selected three finalists per category for the final round.
With these three finalists, Diehl Aviation hopes to receive at least one award:
Wellbeing Zone
The «Wellbeing Zone» on Qantas’ Project Sunrise flight redefines comfort and sets new standards for all passengers on ultra-long-haul flights. Scientifically designed to address hydration, nourishment, prolonged sitting, jetlag, and sustainability, this unique zone transcends class distinctions. Qantas and Diehl Aviation pioneer a lightweight, energy-efficient solution for comfortable ultra-long-haul flights for up to 22 hours. Positioned between economy and premium economy, the spacious door 3 area and side leaners enhance passenger wellbeing, offering stand-up spaces for stretching. A dedicated self-serve station features a touchless water dispenser and snacks and drinks specially selected for hydration and refreshment. Ultra-thin glass doors, advanced lighting, vacuum insulation, and innovative manufacturing methods significantly reduce the weight and space required.
ECO Bracket
Diehl Aviation and 9T Labs team up for a breakthrough innovation: the ECO Bracket. This is an ultra-lightweight bracket made from recycled thermoplastic composite production scrap material. Using an advanced manufacturing process, the ECO Bracket features optimal load distribution and combines excellent mechanical performance with cost efficiency, while focusing on environmental sustainability. This innovative upcycling process allows an impressive 50% weight reduction and an equally remarkable 50% reduction in production costs.
ECO Sidewall
Diehl Aviation's innovative eco-efficient sidewall concept sets a new standard in sustainable aviation. The first of its kind, the ECO Sidewall incorporates pioneering technologies and paves the way for a revolutionary generation of eco-friendly cabin designs. Diehl Aviation is committed to sustainability and has achieved a remarkable 10% weight reduction compared to the current state of technology in the sidewall through the use of lightweight materials and innovative design. This not only reduces the carbon footprint of the ECO Sidewall by 19% during the production phase, but also improves fuel efficiency, resulting in a 10% reduction in CO2-emissions during operation.
About Diehl Aviation
Diehl Aviation is a global partner for the aviation industry. The supplier is recognized as a pioneer, driving innovation and enabling progress. Diehl Aviation aims to make travel safer and more comfortable, save valuable resources, and present ground-breaking solutions to customers in all business areas. Diehl Aviation is a corporate division of Diehl Stiftung & Co. KG. In the aviation industry, Diehl Aviation – including Diehl Aerospace (a joint venture with Thales) – is a leading system supplier of aircraft system and cabin solutions. Diehl Aviation currently has more than 4,400 employees. Its customers include leading aircraft manufacturers Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, Embraer, military partners, manufacturers of eVTOL aircraft as well as airlines and operators of commercial and business aircraft worldwide.