Recaro begins deliveries of new R4 premium economy seat

Recaro Aircraft Seating says deliveries of its new R4 premium economy seat began in June 2026, with an unnamed airline customer receiving the first units. The manufacturer expects the seat to enter commercial service before the end of the year.

The R4 was first shown publicly at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg in 2023, then again at the 2025 edition of the same event. All Nippon Airways announced at that 2025 show that it had chosen the R4 for its premium economy cabin. Recaro's statement did not say whether ANA is the launch customer now receiving the first deliveries.

Recaro describes the R4 as the successor to its PL3530 seat, which debuted in 2015 and has since been adopted by several international carriers, including Emirates, British Airways, Cathay Pacific and Starlux Airlines. LATAM Airlines has also selected the PL3530 for a forthcoming premium economy product.

The manufacturer says the R4 brings changes in ergonomics and passenger comfort compared with its predecessor. It has a six-way adjustable headrest with neck support, ambient side lighting, and privacy wings that include a reading light. A side console is meant to give passengers with reduced mobility dedicated access, and the tray table has been widened with a soft open and close mechanism.

For entertainment, the seat has a 16-inch monitor, a built-in holder for phones and tablets, and multiple options for charging personal devices.

Recaro said the R4 currently holds European Technical Standard Order certification for use on the Boeing 787, and that it is pursuing further certifications.