As a result, competition amongst airlines has ramped up and this has translated into the need for major investment in cabin interiors. The implementation of advanced, lightweight seating, in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC), customised LED cabin lighting, improved air conditioning, enhanced noise reduction and the use of more sustainable materials are all focused on attracting customers by offering a more comfortable and enjoyable passenger experience.

Putting this into commercial perspective, the 2025 edition of Aviation Week’s Commercial Aviation Fleet & MRO Forecast projects spending for cabin interior equipment and furnishings will be over $31 billion over the next 10 years.

The active commercial widebody jet aircraft fleet is expected to increase from more than 6,200 active aircraft in 2025 to at least 8,000 in 2034. This forecast would also mean a corresponding rise in MRO demand. Required upgrades and modifications to the existing global fleet is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 1.4%.

Similarly, the global fleet of private jets has more than doubled in the last two decades, and more private flights were made last year than ever before. Following the pandemic, demand for private air travel rose dramatically amongst the world’s high net worth individuals and corporations and this trend has not tailed off.

In fact, industry research indicates that the global private jet market is projected to reach $39 billion in 2025 from an estimated $25 billion in 2021. Perhaps predictably, the Middle East region and specifically, the UAE, is leading the boom in demand, with the private jet market in the Emirates predicted to grow from about 150 private aircraft currently to 250 by the end of 2025.

Key growth drivers:

• Rising air passenger traffic across all segments
• Demand for enhanced passenger experience and comfort
• Technological advancements in materials and components
• Growth in In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity (IFEC)
• Growing focus on sustainable and eco-friendly interiors

Challenges facing the sector:

• Delays in availability of new aircraft
• Higher costs of maintenance and materials
• Complex certification requirements
• Supply chain disruption and component shortages
• Skilled labour shortage
• Pressure to reduce carbon emissions

Established for almost 25 years, Starling Aerospace is at the forefront of cabin interior solutions for the commercial, business and private aviation industry. A specialist in CAD design, engineering, fabrication, certification, rectification and refurbishment, Starling’s in-house facility is strategically located between London Gatwick and London Heathrow airports.

Over the past three years, Starling has experienced significant uplift in demand for bespoke aircraft interior refurbishment projects, from private and commercial customers, which prompted the business to expand its design and manufacturing capabilities with the largest investment in the company’s history. This has resulted in the business achieving an uplift in turnover of 25% year on year in 2024 with an expectation that this growth curve will continue next year.

In 2023, the aircraft interiors specialist became the first UK aerospace company to operate a 3-in-1 CNC perforating, stitching and embroidery combined machine, which was complemented by a major upgrade in Starling’s sewing workshop with the installation of six fully automated Juki industrial sewing machines and the recruitment of extra machinists.

The commissioning of an in-house autoclave also enables Starling to manufacture interior panels, fixtures and fittings on-site from prepreg carbon fibre. Using this reinforced material, which is pre-impregnated with a resin system and curing agent, results in superior strength and lightweight products, to a consistently high finish, which are fully customisable.

As well as design and fabrication, Starling manages aircraft interior modifications, re-certification and installation, as part of its end-to-end service to customers.

Please contact us to discuss any aircraft cabin interior upgrade project.