Matt Thurber, editor-in-chief at AIN Media Group, has been flying since 1975 and writing about aviation since 1978 and now has the best job in the world, running editorial operations for Aviation International News, Business Jet Traveler, and FutureFlight.aero. In addition to working as an A&amp;P mechanic on everything from Piper Cubs to turboprops, Matt taught flying at his father’s flight school in Plymouth, Mass., in the early 1980s, flew for an aircraft owner/pilot, and for two summer seasons hunted swordfish near the George’s Banks off the East Coast from a Piper Super Cub. An ATP certificated fixed-wing pilot and CFII and commercial helicopter pilot, Matt is type-rated in the Citation 500 and Gulfstream V/550. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Matt and his team cover the entire aviation scene including business aircraft, helicopters, avionics, safety, manufacturing, charter, fractionals, technology, air transport, advanced air mobility, defense, and other subjects of interest to AIN, BJT, and FutureFlight readers.

Editor-in-Chief

Matt Thurber

Lufthansa Technik is demonstrating a miniaturized version of its Hidden Touch Display incorporated into a folding tray table at its Dubai Airshow exhibit. The Nice Intellitable is a high-definition touchscreen blended into the haptic surface of cabin fixtures such as tray tables.
The Hidden Touch Display can be incorporated into various surface materials, such as wood, carbon fiber, and metal, allowing haptic controls to be used when needed while remaining unobtrusive. When switched off, it is resistant to spills and physical contact. “The [haptic surface’s] smart and intuitive display functions only appear on the passenger’s request and just as seamlessly vanish into the tray table’s thin foldable surface when no longer needed,” according to Lufthansa Technik.
At the Dubai Airshow, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the Nice Intellitable's various functions, including flight information with a moving map, seat adjustment controls, food and beverage options with a built-in ordering system, music and video players, and a digital magazine flipbook. The smart surface can either be switched off or minimized to an edge of the tray and summoned when needed.
“Sometimes, there seems to be a disconnect between how airlines and VIP operators design their control solutions, and how their passengers actually interact with the cabin environment,” said Andrew Muirhead, Lufthansa Technik v-p of original equipment and special aircraft services. “To get rid of traditional control interfaces, which sometimes can feel bulky and outdated, we are permanently rethinking how technology integrates with interior design, creating more cohesive and natural interactions. The Nice Intellitable exemplifies this approach, redefining VIP, but also commercial business or first-class cabins, through more intuitive and seamless technology that puts both passenger experience and airline needs at the center.”

News and developments about everything that goes into the cabin of an aircraft, from floor coverings to headliners, with a special emphasis on in-flight entertainment, communications and other electronics for passengers. If it is in the cabin of an aircraft, it’s covered here.

Lufthansa Unveils ‘Smart’ Tray Table with Touchscreen Tech

Hidden Touch Display makes the fold-up tray table an intelligent user interface

The Hidden Touch Display can be incorporated into various surface materials such as wood, carbon fiber, metal, and others.

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News and developments about airplanes, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles used in all varieties of operations, including airlines, military, business, commercial, general aviation and private.

News and issues relating to business, corporate and private aviation, primarily regarding turbine-engine-powered airplanes and helicopters. Subjects include aircraft, engines, maintenance, operations, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security, and training.

Completions companies like AMAC Aerospace work with customers to create custom interiors and paint schemes for the largest business jets.

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Installation makes upgrades or changes much simpler

Ingenio Intros Modular Cabin IFE/CMS AeroPortal Devices

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Gogo Starts ATG Network Flight Trials with 5G Chip

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News and issues concerning general aviation, specifically airplanes and helicopters powered by piston and alternative engines (i.e., non-turbine powered aircraft). Subjects include aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

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News and issues concerning the aviation charter and fractional-ownership industries and markets, including company announcements, regulations, new developments and labor issues.

Dubai Airshow 2025

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Lufthansa Technik

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