AliceBluAero reaches key certification milestone for Quantum SALF seat
AliceBluAero complete dynamic certification testing
AliceBluAero has announced a significant achievement in the certification process of its flagship Quantum SALF seat. The seat has successfully passed structural dynamic testing, fully meeting the criteria for A321 UKTSOA C127c certification. This important milestone advances the Quantum SALF seat toward full certification, with static and flammability testing scheduled to commence in early September.
The initial iteration of the Quantum SALF seat being certified and tested for the A320 Family is designed at a 45-degree angle from the aircraft centreline, with a minimum pitch of 35 inches. This configuration is particularly advantageous for the A321, allowing for 13 seats per side between the first and second doors while offering passengers maximum space and comfort.
Dynamic testing took place over two weeks at TASS International in the Netherlands. After a successful first week of testing, witnessed by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), AliceBluAero was granted the authority to conduct dynamic testing independently.
“This approval means that moving forward, the CAA no longer needs to witness our dynamic tests, reflecting the exceptional competence and professionalism of our engineering team, who demonstrated a thorough understanding of aircraft seating regulations,” Ryan McNeice, Co-founder and CEO, AliceBluAero, tells PAX Tech.
The rigorous testing process included Dynamic 16g pitch and roll at ±10 degrees, Dynamic 14g Down and Dynamic 16g for Head Impact Criteria (HIC). The CAA has confirmed that AliceBluAero is the first U.K. premium aircraft seat manufacturer to complete dynamic testing for the certification of an oblique lie-flat seat under UKTSOA C127c. This milestone not only represents the company’s first TSOA but also marks the U.K.'s inaugural certification of this seat type.
“This program provided the CAA with a live case to demonstrate their competence in approving seats under ETSO-C127c, which will, in turn, boost confidence within the U.K. seating industry to pursue UKTSO approval for their own oblique lie-flat seats,” McNeice adds.
“The CAA further noted that our draft ADOA handbook and procedures were among the best they had ever been handed for review. This success highlights the expertise and commitment of the team of industry veterans involved and reinforces AliceBluAero's dedication to delivering innovative and reliable seating solutions for the aviation industry.”
Following the CAA approval in December, the validation process with EASA is scheduled to begin in January 2025.
