Recaro has managed to add over 5cm to economy class leg room by simply moving the magazine rack up higher and made sitting more comfortable with the inclusion of a flexible seat base.
That eases pressure on the backs of passenger legs and lessens the conditions that could lead to deep vein thrombosis, a potentially fatal illness believed to be exacerbated by sitting in the same position for long periods of time.
In-flight entertainment is also set to move in leaps and bounds, with connectivity to the Internet the main area of research.
"The aim is to recreate in the sky what you can do on the ground," says David Tan, marketing director with Thales, which specializes in aircraft electronics -- or avionics.
Wireless technology means more information can be channelled through the planes, which will increasingly become servers in the sky, with broadband Internet and telephone links via satellite.
Bigger screens are also a feature of the new generation of aircraft seating designs. However, ACS' McGill says that comes with a huge cost.
"The bigger screens are not only heavier, but they are incredibly expensive," he explains.
"Screens have to be able to withstand impact tests and those modifications add up: a 42-inch plasma screen that costs US$4,000 in the store would cost US$23,000 with air modifications."
Economy class passengers will get probably the most benefit from high-tech avionics. For a start, wireless connections demand fewer cables and junction boxes that would normally sit under seats and that means more foot room.
Also, Thales has created an on-board customer relations programme that will allow passengers to call up a virtual cabin-crew member on screen who will take personalized orders for meals and drinks.
"Can you imagine on the giant A380s, with 500 passengers, how much effort that will save the cabin crew?" Tam points out.
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