Collins Aerospace Expands Executive Aircraft Seating Operations
Doubled production floor space and new machinery improves capacity and customization opportunities
Collins Aerospace, a business unit of RTX (NYSE: RTX), is enhancing its executive aircraft seating facility with a significant $2 million investment. This expansion doubles the upholstery production floor space to an impressive 30,000 square feet. Additionally, the facility now features state-of-the-art machinery designed to improve production efficiency while minimizing material waste.
As a prominent manufacturer of seating upholstery for executive, business, and VIP aircraft, Collins operates a significant 150,000 square-foot facility equipped with advanced automation technology complemented by skilled craftsmen. This combination enables the company to create highly customized aircraft furnishing solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of a global customer base. The increased floor space and new machinery not only boost production capacity but also broaden the range of luxury upholstery options available for their clients.
Scott Howard, the director of business development for executive aircraft seating at Collins Aerospace, stated, "This investment unlocks new dimensions to our executive seating site, augmenting our world-class capabilities and improving product quality, repeatability, and lead times. It also reflects our dedication to innovation and our commitment to reducing our environmental impact. By decreasing material waste, we strive to enhance sustainability across our operations."
The new automated quilted panel machinery enables the execution of complex designs and patterns, along with precise color execution for custom sewing, embroidery, and perforation. Furthermore, an advanced automated material cutter utilizes digital visioning technology for precise cutting, maximizing material usage and expediting processes, ultimately increasing overall efficiency.
Visitors can view examples of Collins' bespoke upholstery solutions during the annual NBAA-BACE show, where the company showcases its innovations at booth #2041 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
About Collins Aerospace
Collins Aerospace, a respected division of RTX, is known for providing integrated and intelligent solutions throughout the aerospace and defense sectors. With a workforce of 80,000 dedicated employees, the company focuses on delivering forward-thinking technologies aimed at enhancing sustainable and connected aviation, improving passenger safety and comfort, supporting mission success, and promoting advancements in space exploration.
About RTX
RTX employs over 185,000 individuals globally and continuously pushes the boundaries of technology and science. The company excels in refining connectivity and protection worldwide. Through its leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon – RTX is at the forefront of advancing aviation, integrating defense systems, and developing cutting-edge technology solutions that help global customers tackle their most pressing challenges. With reported sales of $69 billion in 2023, RTX is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the expansion at Collins Aerospace?
The expansion aims to double the production floor space and introduce new technologies to enhance production capacity and customization options.
How much was invested in the expansion?
A total of $2 million has been invested to expand the facility and modernize the machinery.
What enhancements are expected from the new machinery?
The new machinery will improve production efficiency, reduce material waste, and allow for more complex and customized upholstery designs.
Where can examples of Collins Aerospace's upholstery solutions be viewed?
Examples of Collins' bespoke upholstery solutions are displayed at the NBAA-BACE show in Las Vegas, Nevada.
What is RTX's commitment in the aerospace industry?
RTX is focused on advancing technological solutions for sustainable aviation, enhancing passenger safety, and meeting critical challenges in the aerospace and defense sectors.
