Immenstaad, September 9, 2026 – How are the demands on modern aircraft cabins changing? What expectations do passengers have for premium seats – and how can comfort, sustainability, and efficiency be combined? These questions were at the heart of the "ZIM Innovation & Connect" event hosted by the ZIM Aircraft Seating Group. On Tuesday, September 8, 2026, stakeholders, partners, and suppliers gathered at Seegut Zeppelin in Friedrichshafen to discuss innovations in aircraft cabins, deepen existing contacts, and forge new connections.
As a global developer and manufacturer of economy, premium economy, and business class seats for passenger aircraft, ZIM had invited its partners for a personal exchange. The focus was on the award-winning product innovation "The Frame," a new premium economy seat designed to meet the rising expectations of passengers and the requirements of modern airlines.
Innovation for a Sophisticated Travel Experience
"The Frame" combines a high-quality travel experience with a product concept consistently aligned with the demands of aviation. The seating solution demonstrates how sustainable design, high comfort, and efficient use of available installation space can interact within the aircraft interior.
The presentation offered guests the opportunity to learn directly about the product idea, the design philosophy, and the technical approaches behind "The Frame." At the same time, the event provided insights into the importance of a holistic development process, where the perspectives of airlines, passengers, partners, and suppliers are brought together at an early stage.
"Innovation does not happen in isolation – it is the result of open exchange, diverse perspectives, and the shared ambition to continuously develop solutions," says Raffael Rogg, CEO of the ZIM Aircraft Seating Group. "With ZIM Innovation & Connect, we want to thank our partners for their trust and reliable cooperation. At the same time, we create a personal setting for new impulses, open discussions, and shared perspectives on the future of the aircraft cabin."
Strong Partnerships as the Foundation for Progress
In addition to the product presentation, personal dialogue was a central focus. In a relaxed atmosphere, "ZIM Innovation & Connect" provided space for discussions about current developments in aircraft cabins, new market requirements, and how innovative seating concepts can be successfully advanced together. Inspiring impulses, interesting encounters, and a flying buffet provided the perfect setting for an evening where people and their collaboration took center stage.
"With The Frame, we show how a future-proof seating solution emerges from the interplay of design expertise, technical precision, and a deep understanding of the requirements of airlines and passengers," says Stefan Kroll, CTO and President Germany at ZIM Aircraft Seating. "Open exchange with our partners is crucial in this process. It helps us to jointly develop ideas early on and reliably translate innovations into marketable products."
The event underscored the importance of long-term partnerships and strong regional and international networking for shared success. Direct exchange with partners and suppliers is an essential component for ZIM to translate technological developments, increasing comfort demands, and the requirements of the aviation industry into future-proof solutions.
The ZIM Aircraft Seating Group thanks all guests, partners, and suppliers who contributed to the success of "ZIM Innovation & Connect."
About ZIM Aircraft Seating Group
ZIM Aircraft Seating Group is a global designer and manufacturer of Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class seating solutions for commercial airlines. Owned by AURELIUS, the Group employs more than 400 people across three locations in Germany and the United States. As one of the industry’s leading independent aircraft‑seat specialists, ZIM supplies major OEMs including Boeing and Airbus, and serves a broad portfolio of international airlines such as Lufthansa, Air France, Qantas, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific.
Press Contact:
ZIM Aircraft Seating
Regina Glaser
Graf-von-Soden-Strasse 1
88090 Immenstaad
Email: Regina.Glaser@zim.aero
Mobile: +49 (0) 151 55465640
