Overhead view of RECARO R4 Premium class seat in blue with grey headrests.

Press Release: RECARO launches R4 next-gen premium class recliner

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Press Release hub banner blue with title in red white and blueRECARO Aircraft Seating (RECARO), a global leader in premium aircraft seating solutions, is proud to introduce the next generation of premium class seating, the R4.

As the successor to the successful PL3530, launched in 2015, the R4 has been developed to combine enhanced ergonomics, passenger comfort, and premium features while addressing the evolving needs of both airlines and passengers.

The seat is ETSO-certified (European Technical Standard Order certified) for the Boeing 787 and additional certifications are 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.

RECARO R4 Premium class seat in blue with grey headrests, with privacy wings.

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 color and trim and finish customization options enabling airlines to create a distinctive Premium Class cabin tailored to their individual brand identity.

“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,” said Mark Hiller, CEO and Shareholder of RECARO Aircraft Seating and CEO of RECARO Holding.

RECARO R4 Premium class seat in blue with grey headrests. A mobile device is placed the the dedicated slot on the tray table. A large seatback IFE screen is also in view.

About RECARO Aircraft Seating

RECARO Aircraft Seating combines innovation with comfort since its founding in 1972. Today, the family-owned company is a leading supplier of premium seating solutions in the aviation industry for economy, premium and business class. Headquartered in Schwaebisch Hall, Germany, RECARO has a global presence in China, Poland, South Africa and the United States, with more than 3,200 employees and sales of approximately 710 million euros in 2025. Known for its ergonomic lightweight designs and a commitment to excellence, RECARO is Driving Comfort In The Sky, by constantly investing in R&D, while maintaining a focus on reliability, efficiency and sustainability.

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About RECARO Group

The RECARO Group encompasses the three independently operating divisions RECARO Aircraft Seating headquartered in Schwaebisch Hall, Germany, RECARO Gaming located in Stuttgart, Germany, and RECARO Rail located in Grodzisk Wielkopolski, Poland. Additionally, the brand is represented in the automotive seating business area by the licensee RECARO Automotive and in the child seat and stroller business area by the licensee RECARO Child Safety. RECARO consistently establishes the benchmark for innovation, comfort, and design excellence in seating solutions, supported by an international team of more than 3,400 professionals. With sales of 723 million euros in 2025, the Group underlines its strong presence in the global market.

All images credited to RECARO Aircraft Seating