LOT Polish Airlines has revealed a refurbishment plan for its Boeing 787-8s, saying it intends to transform all classes with new seats, IFE and connectivity. The carrier has turned to a number of parties to bring its vision to life: Tangerine for the design, Recaro Aircraft Seating — in an exclusive nose-to-tail contract — for seats, Safran Passenger Innovations for 4K IFE with bluetooth connectivity, Viasat for onboard Internet and Touch Inflight Solutions for content services among others.

The decision is part of the national carrier’s broader 2024-2028 strategy which it says entails expanding its fleet “by around 50% (110 in 2028 vs. 75 today), increasing passenger numbers by around 70% (16.9 million in 2028 vs. 10.3 million today), increasing service quality and passenger satisfaction through, for example, new interior standards on widebody aircraft and introducing Wi-Fi access on long-haul flights”. New destinations on medium- and long-haul routes are also on the horizon.

Impressively, LOT has selected Recaro Aircraft Seating as the exclusive seat supplier for the 787-8 refurbishment project. The award encompasses eight aircraft and includes Recaro’s CL6720 doored suite for business class. Configured in a 1-2-1 configuration, the new product represents a significant upgrade from the carrier’s current 2-2-2- layout. Also included: Recaro’s premium economy platform, the PL3530, plus CL3810 economy seats.

Promising increased legroom, LOT director of product development and customer experience department Izabela Leszczyńska says that in choosing Recaro as the exclusive supplier of seats for LOT’s widebody fleet, the carrier “has prioritised passenger comfort and innovation”.

“Our partnership marks a milestone for both LOT Polish Airlines and Recaro, with whom we are working on a widebody aircraft cabin design for the first time. The CL6720, PL3530 and CL3810 series seats materialise our commitment to providing comfortable travel experience in all classes. We are confident that this collaboration will establish new standards and reflect our dedication to making the journey even better for passengers,” she says.

For Recaro, the delivery of more than 2,000 passenger seats beginning in the third quarter of 2026 through 2030, will mark the first time Recaro has partnered with LOT on a widebody project. Production of the economy class seats will take place at its facility in Świebodzin, Poland.

Renderings of the new cabins are impressive, with Leszczyńska aptly noting that: “Vibrant, deep blues emanate perfectly from the LOT brand, while the addition of copper alludes to the warmth of the Polish sun. The design follows business trends; however, as one of the oldest and most recognisable Polish brands in the world, we do not forget to include touches from our cultural heritage.”

The CL6720 business class seats look sleek, whilst their lightweight structure contributes to fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability. Passengers can expect wireless charging, plus USB-C and universal power. 

In premium economy, the PL3530 features ergonomic cushioning, adjustable recline, what Recaro calls an “intuitive” control panel plus both USB-C charging and universal power.

Last but not least, the CL3810 looks modern. “Passengers can enjoy spacious seating with ample legroom, a six-way adjustable headrest, lumbar support, and recline options up to six inches, ensuring a comfortable experience on long-haul flights,” notes Recaro.

We await exact measurements on seat pitch aboard the 9-abreast 787-8s. But LOT promises “increased legroom and advanced cushions”. 

Celebrating today’s big announcement, LOT program manager Pawel Wysmyk said on LinkedIn: “This week marks my 4th anniversary at LOT Polish Airlines and a milestone in the 787–8 retrofit project I have been coordinating for the past 18 months. During the presentation of LOT strategy for years 2024-2028, renders of new cabin for Dreamliner fleet has been revealed to the public for the first time.”

He continues: “I’m proud to be able to bring exceptional level of comfort and newest solutions to the passengers boarding long-haul routes from Warsaw Chopin Airport starting in 2026. Passengers in LOT Business Class, LOT Premium Class and LOT Economy Class will be able to enjoy [an] array of seat and entertainment features, making their journey pleasant and comfortable.

“Thanks to all colleagues at LOT Polish Airlines involved in delivering this project and our thoughtfully selected partners RECARO Aircraft Seating, Safran Passenger Innovations, Viasat and Touch Inflight Solutions among many others. You are the best!” It is not immediately clear if LOT intends to retrofit its Boeing 787-9s.

Featured image credited to Recaro/LOT