IFPL Group is celebrating its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of engineering innovation from its head office based on the Isle of Wight.
Founded in 1996 by Geoff Underwood OBE, the company began with a clear mission: to solve real, practical challenges faced by airlines through better engineering.
What started as a small operation working from a garage has grown into a globally recognised supplier of aircraft cabin technology, with products flying on aircraft operated worldwide. At the heart of IFPL’s early success was the development of its patented Long Life Audio Jack, designed to address a persistent reliability issue in aircraft cabins.
By significantly increasing durability and reducing maintenance requirements, it set a new standard and established the company’s reputation for practical, high-performance engineering.
Today, IFPL designs and manufactures a range of advanced cabin interior solutions, including the Long Life Audio Jack, Reversable USB-A, the Transform in-seat power system and Cobalt Spectrum LED mood lighting.
These technologies are used by airlines and operators worldwide to enhance passenger experience while improving efficiency, reducing weight, simplifying installation and maintenance for operators.
“From the beginning, the focus has always been on designing products that work reliably in service,” said Geoff Underwood, Founder and CEO of IFPL. “If you understand the real operating environment and engineer for it properly, you can make a meaningful difference for both passengers and operators.”
This landmark anniversary has been made even more special by the recognition of Geoff Underwood’s contribution to the technology industry. The entire IFPL Group was thrilled to see its Founder and CEO awarded an OBE this year for services to the technology industry – an especially fitting honour in such a monumental year for the company.
IFPL operates from two purpose-designed facilities and employs a highly skilled team, with strong in-house capabilities spanning design, prototyping, manufacturing, and testing. The company’s continued success has been recognised with five Queen’s Award for Enterprise.
This milestone reflects not only the company’s growth, but also its roots, with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, engineering expertise, and long-term thinking. From its earliest days, IFPL has retained a culture of precision and attention to detail, these values continue to underpin its work today.
Looking ahead, IFPL remains focused on the future of aircraft cabin technology, including intelligent power systems, connected cabins, and more sustainable, energy-efficient solutions.
IFPL are celebrating throughout 2026 reflecting on the people, products, projects, and moments that have shaped the journey over the last three decades through a series of posts, editorials and articles. Using this milestone as the perfect opportunity to celebrate the history, engineering, and innovation that define IFPL.
IFPL Group is the parent organisation of Inflight Peripherals Ltd and Cobalt Aerospace. Both companies are specialist aerospace design and production companies.
IFPL and Cobalt Aerospace develop and manufacture products that enhance aircraft cabin interiors and deliver an outstanding passenger experience. Products span entertainment, power, connectivity, lighting, and safety and each is designed to optimise air travel for passengers, crew, and operators.
The two companies boast a combined five prestigious Queen’s Awards for Enterprise.
All images credited to IFPL
