Q: On overhead bin shortages, what can be done with that issue? In the U.S., bin space is typically allotted based on the order by which you board.
A: You see our latest aircraft innovation, like the 350. The 350 has our biggest bin by volume in the market and they don't have any problems with finding a space for your luggage. We applied that now to the A330neo as we launched the Airspace cabin with it. And one of the biggest innovations in that cabin was to increase bin volume by 66 percent. I would say a relaxed travel starts with easy boarding and stowing your luggage. And if you are afraid of not having enough space for your bag, you know, that's not a good start for a nice flight experience.
Q: Where did you find the real estate?
A: Actually, there in the 330 we have applied one idea that we grow the bin. It's definitely bigger, but we lift the luggage position instead of lying in there flat, moving it upwards.
Q: Do you use more of the ceiling space?
A: We use a little bit [more] ceiling but we also use a little bit of aisle space in the wide body [and] we lowered the bin about one inch. We have other ideas in order to get the bin situation better. For instance, what you find a lot still in overhead bins is flashlights, blankets, pillows, emergency equipment. And all that is taking away space from the passengers. And especially you find that stuff in the first rows of premium seating for passengers. So we launched some initiatives, together with airlines, to find alternative places for these elements.
