Recaro Aircraft Seating is pushing forward, announcing that its R4 Premium Economy Class seat has launched.
The Recaro R4 follows the PL3530, launched in 2015 and widely deployed by airlines.
The R4 combines enhanced ergonomics, passenger comfort, and premium features while addressing the evolving needs of both airlines and passengers. Importantly, the seat is ETSO-certified (European Technical Standard Order certified) for the Boeing 787, with additional certifications in progress.
Deliveries began in June 2026 with entry into service expected later in the year.
Building on the RECARO expertise in lightweight design seating solutions, the R4 introduces a range of new features designed to further enhance the Premium Class passenger experience.
The seat incorporates a 16-inch monitor, a six-way adjustable headrest with integrated neck support, side ambient lighting and privacy wings with integrated reading light.
The R4 also has the ability to encompass a wide range of power options to support passenger connectivity throughout the journey.
Designed with both passenger comfort and operational flexibility in mind, the R4 also features a side console with dedicated PRM (Passengers with Reduced Mobility) access. In addition, a newly developed extra-wide single-plate tray table with a soft open/close mechanism and integrated PED holder for smartphones and tablets further enhances usability. The R4 allows for colour trim and finish customisation options, enabling airlines to create a distinctive Premium Class cabin tailored to their individual brand identity.
In Quotes
Mark Hiller, CEO and Shareholder of RECARO Aircraft Seating and CEO of RECARO Holding, said
“We are proud to introduce the R4, the latest addition to our Premium Class portfolio. Building on the success of the PL3530, the R4 reflects our commitment to combining comfort, ergonomics, and premium features in a seating solution designed to meet the evolving expectations of both airlines and passengers,”
Steps forward in comfort
I have seen the R4 as it has developed over the past few years during trade shows, and its intrestintg tio see the work that has gone in, and the expected outputs – with some features being welcome (such as the Passengers of Reduced Mobility seating method, as well as the tweaks that have gone in that will make the R4
And customers will be waiting for these new seats.
Recaro has worked on one of the big hurdles – getting certification for one type of aircraft over the line, which has led to delivery of the seats to a customer. Whilst Recaro has not disclosed this, there are orders of R4 seats on the record – and we will be waiting in anticipation to see which airline got the first delivery.
Images, Recaro Aircraft Seating
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