The Farnborough International Airshow is this week and Qatar Airways kicked things off in style, unveiling the airline’s next generation Qsuite Business Class seat. I’ve been lucky enough to fly in the current Qsuite and had a fantastic experience. This new seat takes everything we love about the current product and takes it up a notch.
The new seat has been branded the ‘Qsuite Next Gen’ and has some notable improvements over the current generation Qsuite. The Qsuite will feature a variety of lighting and privacy controls via a touchscreen. This will allow passengers to tailor their experience based on their wants.
While there have been upgrades to the finishes, the layout is expected to remain the same as the current Qsuite product. There are a few notable changes specifically to the Quad Suite and the Companion Suite.
The Quad Suite in the Qsuite Next Gen will have moveable IFE screens to allow for the a more open and collaborative space. Additional space has also been added tor dining and storage. The beds are also larger than the current Qsuite product.
The Companion Suite, which is essentially half of a Quad Suite, features similar characteristics to the Quad Suite. Mrs. ATX and I flew in a Companion Suite on our trip to the Maldives and had a very pleasant flight. A little more space for the bed will only add to the overall experience.
Also, the divider on the Next Gen Qsuite can be lowered between the two window seats if both passengers want to be able to communicate with one another.
Qatar Will Install the Next Generation Qsuite on its Boeing 777-9 Aircraft
The next generation Qsuite is expected to make its debut on the airline’s fleet of Boeing 777-9 aircraft. Qatar’s press release stated that these planes will be delivered beginning in 2025 though we have seen the 777X program timeline slip dramatically. Boeing was supposed to begin deliveries back in 2020 and the aircraft is still going through a certification process.
At this time, no other aircraft, including the remaining A350s the airline has on order, are expected to get the new product. So, while it looks swanky, it may take a few years before the new Qsuite takes flight. Until then, the current generation Qsuite is still a fantastic product to fly.
Summary
Qatar Airways unveiled its Qsuite Next Gen at the Farnborough International Airshow earlier today. The new seat is an improvement, not an overhaul, of the award winning Qsuite Business Class. I’m looking forward to trying this seat out myself once the airline’s Boeing 777-9s are delivered in 2025 or beyond.
(Images courtesy Qatar Airways)
