Airbus Designs First-Class Suite With Private Bathroom for A350-1000

Airbus unveiled a first-class cabin concept for its A350-1000 aircraft that includes a master suite with an en-suite bathroom. The design relocates toilets and crew stairs to a center module to create additional private space. Emirates President Tim Clark stated at the CAPA Airline Leader Summit in Berlin last month that the airline is working on en-suite bathrooms in first class.

He said the announcement was intended to prompt other carriers to pursue similar features.

France introduced its La Première first-class suite in April 2024, featuring a 38-square-foot space with a full-length bed and personal wardrobe. 5 billion in development. Delta Air Lines plans to introduce a 44-seat first-class section this month while awaiting flatbed suites scheduled for 2028. Etihad Airways has offered The Residence, a three-room apartment with a private bathroom, since 2015.

Airbus head of cabin marketing Ingo Wuggetzer said the concept reflects demand for closed-door suites and greater privacy. He noted that the design is based on 18 months of discussions with airlines and passengers. Wuggetzer stated that first-class passenger numbers remain stable even as some carriers reduce first-class seats to increase exclusivity.

Airbus reports that 10 customers have ordered A350 aircraft with first-class cabins, and five carriers are in the customization phase with potential service entry around 2030.