Avion Luxury International Airport Magazine
The cabin of wonders gives you wings
They were known as Silberpfeil, the 'silver arrows' that raced victorious on tracks all over the world. Automobile technique, elevated by superb performance, coalesced then as now inside the agone of the F1, within the competitive spirit of Mercedes-Benz racing cars. Beautiful, intense and alluring, emotions follow unusual routes. And they now take flight into the starry sky of aviation, opening doors to a new dimension of private and business travel. The subtle language of dynamic design, tied with stylistic research and the use of precious materials, embodies the ethos of the Mercedes brand, the epitome of high quality and functionality. Key elements in the array of technical and aesthetic solutions also offered by Lufthansa Technik, who are ever committed to creating customised aircraft cabins through its VIP & Executive Jet Solutions division. Mercedes-Benz and Lufthansa Technik have now joined forces to create their own definition of simple, refined luxury, offering high standards in terms of aesthetics and cutting-edge solutions to produce an iconic VIP aircraft cabin. Visitors to ABACE 2017 - Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition in Shanghai will have the opportunity to see the complete cabin in a virtual 3D presentation, as well as a scaled physical model and samples of the surfaces of the cabin, the final version of their advanced system of VIP aircraft structures. Once inside, they’ll find a harmonious and clever portrayal of high quality design inspired by artistic engineering, in which advanced technology and innovative solutions coexist. A spiral structure, inspired by the DNA helix, welcomes visitors as they enter; floor, walls and ceiling seem fused together to create a single form and the elegant interior shell houses windows concealed by so-called ‘black panels’ which, using
Mercedes Benz Magic Sky technology, allow them to be modified electronically from black to completely transparent. The panels are also able to accommodate displays and touch screens for entertainment and information. A relaxing atmosphere flows through the cabin in such a way that the cosseted environment, enhanced by the fluidity of decisive lines, high-end materials and cutting edge technologies, emphasises how the layout of a traditional cabin has been gently replaced by a luxurious and comfortable ‘living room’. Skilful design harmoniously swathes the aircraft from entrance to bedroom, dividing it into well-defined areas within, however, a kind of continuum. Distinctive features are dark wood inserts, leather finishes and monitor displays. The entrance opens into a cosy area, followed by a kitchen (storeroom), an ante-room and bathroom. The traditional arrangement of fittings, seating and walls is done away with to make way for spacious areas that almost blend into one other, creating an organic monolithic interior juxtaposed by colours and soft light, a web of contrasts, different materials and soft hues. All the features of a true Mercedes. An entertainment area separates the private bedroom with ensuite, which features a king-sized bed and the crisp luxury of padded concave walls. The concept of space is enhanced to incorporate a bath-bedroom around a shower column with transparent walls. Lastly, the two companies, Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz) and Lufthansa Technik, in a synergy that alchemically combines interior design excellence with the finest technical skills, have also introduced a cabin with unique
features to the ultra-sophisticated world of aircraft. The VIP aircraft, which would normally accommodate 150 passengers, has been designed for 16 special passengers, using all the solutions that make a difference, verge on perfection and demonstrate the talent of those who designed such a plane. The VIP cabin delivers crystal-clear sensuality, setting modern standards of luxury according to unique aesthetic principles and redefining the very notion of the Mercedes-Benz style, which, together with the inextricable Lufthansa Technik, transforms the approach of a prestigious car brand to a new concept of aircraft and private jets on short and medium-range travel routes. Luxury and refinement continue to fly. As if they were the glorious 'silver arrows'. From the race track to the starry sky. Higher and higher.