Guest Column: Sky’s the Limit – Three trends transforming inflight amenities
This is a special feature from the May 2025 Post-AIX/Awards issue of PAX Tech on page 81.
In this guest column, Paula Wines, Creative Director, Amenities and Luxury Brand Promotions at Linstol, explores three trends transforming inflight amenities.
Sourced from the sea, AquaThread is a groundbreaking yarn made from repurposed oyster shells and recycled plastic bottles, transforming post-consumer waste into high-performance, luxury fabrics
As the airline industry continues to evolve, so do the expectations of today’s travellers. Whether in Economy or First Class, each passenger has unique needs that airlines are working hard to meet. Amenity kits are no longer viewed as simple giveaways—they reflect brand values, a commitment to comfort and a chance to surprise and delight. At Linstol, we see this shift as an exciting opportunity to reimagine the onboard experience through design that is both intentional and deeply personal.
Paula Wines, Creative Director, Amenities and Luxury Brand Promotions, Linstol
Trend 1: Headsets that help
With rest and relaxation becoming top priorities for long-haul travellers, noise-cancelling technology is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. From earbuds to over-ear headsets, passengers are seeking solutions that block out ambient cabin noise and create a more peaceful, restful inflight experience. At Linstol, we recognize this growing demand and continue to innovate with high-performance audio products designed specifically for the cabin environment, offering travellers the comfort of silence at 30,000 feet.
One of Linstol’s latest innovations, the Aeroméxico Business Class NCM-275 headset, is designed to deliver next-level comfort and clarity. With plush cloth earpads, advanced noise cancellation and a sleek metallic red finish, it transforms inflight entertainment into a premium experience. Adding to its thoughtful design, the headset includes a tangle-free braided cord—a sleek, sustainable alternative to plastic cables that embodies modern, travel-conscious innovation.
Our organization also unveiled the Meridian 300 headset at WTCE, the latest result of our long-standing partnership with Meridian Audio. Specifically created for the cabin environment, this next-generation headset delivers rich bass, crystal-clear vocals and an immersive soundstage, redefining what passengers can expect from inflight audio.
Linstol unveiled the Meridian 300 headset at WTCE 2025, the latest result of its long-standing partnership with Meridian Audio
Trend 2: Sustainable solutions in high demand
Redefining the premium cabin experience starts with reimagining every detail—from textiles to bedding, these elements have become key areas of innovation, especially on long-haul flights where comfort is essential. Cooling pillows and body temperature-regulating fabrics are just two examples of how wellness-driven materials are increasingly shaping inflight product decisions. That is precisely what inspired Linstol to create AquaThread: a next-generation textile solution designed for the skies.
Sourced from the sea, AquaThread is a groundbreaking yarn made from repurposed oyster shells and recycled plastic bottles. This circular innovation transforms post-consumer waste into high-performance, luxury fabrics. Each kilogram of AquaThread gives new life to six oyster shells and sixty plastic bottles, resulting in materials that are naturally antimicrobial, breathable, static-resistant and odor-fighting—all without the use of harsh chemicals.
Created with both passenger comfort and environmental responsibility in mind, AquaThread offers a premium finish and is available in versatile blends like cotton and modal. Perfect for onboard blankets, sleepwear and bedding, it brings a sustainable layer of indulgence to the inflight journey.
AquaThread is available in versatile blends like cotton and modal, ideal for onboard blankets, sleepwear and bedding
Trend 3: Amenity kits must evolve
Airlines are increasingly looking for modern amenity kits that enhance well-being in flight and deliver lasting value on the ground—serving as meaningful brand touchpoints through thoughtful, reusable design.
On long-haul flights, small comforts can have a big impact. Linstol’s wellness kits feature calming mists, hydrating sprays and overnight creams to help passengers relax and adjust with ease. Our exclusive B-Zen skincare line targets travel fatigue with skin-soothing ingredients and deep hydration for a radiant arrival.
Beyond wellness, airlines are drawn to amenity kits that embody brand values and are thoughtfully designed for reuse well beyond the wheels touching down. A standout example is our WTCE-exclusive bag, inspired by the Japanese art of kintsugi—a tribute to finding beauty in imperfection and a reminder that meaningful design can leave a lasting impression. This thoughtfully crafted kit is more than a travel amenity; it is a versatile keepsake that can be repurposed as a makeup bag, tech organizer, toiletry case and more.
Linstol’s exclusive B-Zen skincare line targets travel fatigue with skin-soothing ingredients and deep hydration
Explore a full range of innovative products and services designed to keep you ahead of emerging industry trends at Linstol.com.
