RECARO unveils AI-powered R7 business class seat at AIX
April 13, 2026
RECARO Aircraft Seating has introduced its newest long-haul business-class platform, the R7, at this year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo 2026—a lighter, customizable seat designed to offer technology upgrades, including AI-enabled seat controls.
The German seat manufacturer is marking a year of strong growth and continued investment in aircraft seating innovation, reporting €710 million in revenue in 2025 and allocating around 10% of annual spending to research and development.
A lighter, more flexible, and smart business class suite
The RECARO R7 is a next-generation business-class seat that offers airlines 20% weight savings compared to comparable products, supporting airline sustainability targets by reducing fuel burn.
It is a fully customizable suite design that airlines can tailor to their passengers’ needs and support their brand. The platform includes several configuration options to enhance passenger privacy and comfort, including full-height privacy doors, electrical privacy dividers and increased shell height, so airlines can tailor the level of enclosure within the cabin.
Designed for long-haul operations, the R7 converts into a fully flat bed measuring 78” and can be fitted on the Airbus A350, Boeing 787 and the Airbus A330.
The R7 also offers a “Business Class Plus” front-row suite option—an upgraded experience closer to first class that fits the same cabin footprint.
R7 Horizon introduces AI-powered cabin features
Alongside the production seat, RECARO is presenting the R7 Horizon technology demonstrator, which hints at the future of connected and intelligent seating.
It introduces AI-powered voice control, allowing passengers to adjust seat positions with natural-language commands in more than 90 languages. The concept also integrates “Lumina Sync,” intelligent climate controls, and a smart system which adjusts cabin lighting to suit passengers’ circadian rhythms, reducing jet lag on long-haul flights.
The technology demonstrator also includes predictive maintenance capabilities, using real-time diagnostics and wireless data systems to help airlines anticipate when seats need service, improving operational reliability.
RECARO’s R-series seats support sustainability and efficiency
While the R7 is targeted at business class, the manufacturer has also developed sustainable seating platforms for economy and premium economy.
The R1 and R2 economy seats feature lightweight construction and integrated device holders with USB-C charging. The R Sphere sustainability demonstrator—previously recognised as a Crystal Cabin Award finalist—introduces materials including recycled plastics, upcycled fishing nets and certified wood components. Recaro recently announced that this seat is being trialled in service with Iberia.
RECARO is also showcasing its R3 and R4 seats for economy and premium cabins. The R3 features a 6-way adjustable headrest with neck support, and a pitch of 30″-34″. Employing carbon-fibre materials in its construction, the R3 is nearly 2kg lighter than its predecessor.
The R4 features a table design with a smooth pop-up and soft-closing mechanism, privacy wings, a 16″ video display integration, as well as USB-C and power outlets. It also has a fully adjustable 6-way headrest, dedicated amenity storage, ergonomic calf and footrests, ambient lighting and a lower lit-pocket, to improve comfort and optimise personal space.
The new R2 SPRINT for narrowbody fleets offers over 15% weight savings and can be delivered within eight weeks, enabling rapid fleet upgrades.
A focus on weight, sustainability and passenger experience
“Our vision of ‘driving comfort in the sky’ is all about delivering ingenious seating solutions based on innovative lightweight design and cutting-edge technology,” said Dr Mark Hiller, CEO of RECARO Aircraft Seating, in the company’s announcement.
The RECARO R7 addresses airlines’ focus on expanding the premium footprint in their cabins while meeting operational efficiency and sustainability targets.
Lightweight materials, modular customisation and integrated digital features are becoming central to aircraft seat design, particularly in business class, where brand differentiation remains a key competitive factor.
Featured Image: RECARO
