Why do airplane seats often come in shades of blue?

The color blue has become a frequent choice as it is traditional, non-controversial, and symbolizes trustworthiness and safety.

Why are airplane seats often blue?

From Ryanair to British Airways to American Airlines – the world's largest airlines all use blue seats in their passenger cabins.

This isn't a random coincidence but a psychologically studied phenomenon. According to the book “The Psychology of Color” by Angela Wright, a consultant based in London, blue is associated with positive qualities such as “trust, efficiency, serenity, coolness, reflection, and calmness.”

Nigel Goode, a leading aircraft interior designer and co-founder of Priestman Goode, a company specializing in airplane interiors for the past 30 years, explains that besides reinforcing the airline's brand and making it more recognizable, their top priority is still to provide comfortable, relaxing, and enjoyable interiors for passengers, which includes using blue seats.

“Blue has become a frequently chosen color due to its tradition, lack of controversy, and symbolism of reliability and safety,” he added.

However, in Australia and New Zealand, blue is no longer used. Airlines like Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Air New Zealand opt for deep red or black seats. The reason could be that these colors conceal dirt more easily.

Lighting helps reduce stress

Cabin lighting also aims to create a gentle atmosphere, avoiding stress, especially in newer aircraft, where LED lights are used to replace dazzling lights.

“Correctly lighting the cabin, the combination of colors used on the aircraft, light reflection... are all scientifically related factors,” explained Mr. Goode.

After selecting the most promising fabrics and materials for use on the aircraft, workshops on color are even organized to test how lighting will create effects at different times, such as when passengers board the plane, eat, or sleep.

Colors must ensure comfort and tranquility for customers but must not be allowed to be boring.

British interior designer Jane Priestman, former managing director and design and architecture director of the UK Airport Authority, emphasizes the importance of light and color in the built environment.

“Research at airports and railway stations shows the psychological power of color and light control can affect people's moods,” she explains.

Noise barrier walls

Some recent studies have exposed some adverse effects of airplane noise on health. Those who hear more airplane noise are more likely to die from heart attacks.

Today, new technology has helped reduce noise from airplane engines by insulating the aircraft fuselage with a thin membrane.

“We are considering using softer materials inside the aircraft to reduce noise,” she added.

The importance of fabric

As a general rule, most long-haul aircraft will not use leather seats as they trap sweat. Instead, synthetic fabrics are used to provide a more breathable experience for passengers.

Fabric is chosen as the seat covering material because they are durable and long-lasting. Seat fabric is dark-colored to conceal dirt and fade less over time.

“First-class seats are often equipped with light colors, while standard cabins use darker colors more often,” Mr. Goode said.

According to Bình Minh/Tuổi trẻ

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Reference: Travel Guide Mytour