The Complexity of Simplicity – New York Times article

Delta has recently completed the installation of new seat covers in Delta One, First Class and Delta Comfort+ cabins across the entire fleet. In a recent New York Times article, Delta explained that the large-scale modification involved more than 700 planes.

“When you purchase an airline ticket and fly from one place to the other, you will consistently experience the seat,” says Jeff Robertson, VP Product Development, Sky Clubs and Marketing Communications, “it’s generally the most important piece of your experience and what drives your satisfaction.”

“The fabrication needs to be sturdy enough to survive maintenance crews frequently removing, servicing and reinstalling them without showing signs of strain”, said Shaun Londono, Senior Product Manager, Onboard Product Delivery.

The seat dominates the air travel experience, so the new Delta seat covers were chosen for durability and easy maintenance, they also help keep a consistent level of comfort on trips that may take many hours.

The new seat covers consist of composition leather which is made from upcycled material that would otherwise go to landfill.

Marcus Griffin, Program Manager, Leather Carpeting said: “It’s impossible to implement a seat alteration that doesn’t meet a number of regulations, and pass burn and flame testing.” Delta tested the new seat cover designs to ensure they withstand 5 years wear and tear.

“Overhauling a seat cover is complex,” Robertson says, “getting the design and performance enhancement right upfront helps travellers feel confident about choosing the airline.”

Read the full New York Times article here.