Category: Full Service Carrier
Launch date: Rollout began October 2019, projected completion date in early 2026.
Elements: Catering / Comfort / Interior Design
GoJet Airlines and partner United Airlines were seeking a key differentiator in the regional aviation space. Their goal was to provide a unique, one-of-a-kind experience for Business class and regional travellers while offering additional assistance and perks for regional flight crews, as well as meeting aviation demands and guidelines. The CRJ-550 answered those goals and lingering pain points for pilots, travellers and companies.
The cabin concept for the CRJ-550 came from a desire to offer the same options and luxuries for non-economy travelers through larger regional aircraft. GoJet Airlines wanted to differentiate the 50-seat aircraft market by offering First class and Economy Plus seating, something no other comparable aircraft has. The issue was that converting a current 50-seat aircraft would have made GoJet Airlines’ vision impossible. However, GoJet, partnered with United Airlines, had 70-seat CRJ-700s to spare, which created a unique opportunity. GoJet Airlines now had the space necessary for this type of conversion and seat offering while saving both time and money compared to commissioning brand new aircraft manufacturing.
The GoJet Airlines team was tasked with designing an aircraft cabin within the CRJ-700 body that could accommodate all three levels of cabin pricing and utilise the additional space provided by the bigger aircraft to both create a unique passenger experience and ease the burden on small flight crews.
Comfort
GoJet Airlines introduced three distinct seating options on the CRJ-550: First class, Economy Plus, and Economy, marking a significant improvement over its predecessor, the CRJ-700. These enhancements were made possible through GoJet Airlines’ efficiency improvements to the original platform configuration. The redesigned layout not only provides additional legroom for all passengers but also allows for the addition of eight premium seats, achieving a seating breakdown of 10 First class, 20 Economy Plus, and 20 Economy seats in the standard 1-2, 2-2 configuration.
First class passengers enjoy an exclusive and elevated experience, with six seats in a 1-2 configuration on the starboard side and four single seats on the port side for added privacy.
Each seating class is distinguished by its colour palette, with rich tones and premium materials that reflect an updated and luxurious take on United Airlines’ branding, creating a modern and sophisticated aesthetic throughout the cabin.
The increase in premium seating caters to business travellers while also offering passengers upgraded amenities and a more spacious cabin experience.
By blending spacious design, premium amenities, and streamlined service, the CRJ-550 redefines comfort in regional flying, delivering a truly customer-centric experience.
Interior Design
A standout feature of the CRJ-550 is the addition of four dedicated luggage storage cabinets. Recognising the growing preference for carry-on luggage, GoJet Airlines installed these cabinets to minimise the need for valeted bags, addressing the limited storage space that is a common challenge on regional aircraft. One cabinet is located at the front of the aircraft, while the other three are positioned between First class and Economy. This design not only enhances storage capacity but also creates a larger separation between the two cabin areas, ensuring a more private and premium experience for First class passengers.
The strategic placement of the luggage cabinets also improves the boarding process. By positioning the cabinets at the front of each cabin area, passengers are encouraged to stow their carry-on items before reaching their seats, reducing congestion and expediting both boarding and deplaning. This thoughtful layout significantly alleviates potential strain on airport personnel, streamlines the passenger experience, and underscores GoJet Airlines’ commitment to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Catering
The First class cabin on the CRJ-550 is designed with service excellence in mind, offering six seats in three rows on the starboard side and four single seats on the port side for an exclusive and spacious experience. One of its standout features is the innovative refreshment bar, located just in front of the first row on the starboard side. This unique addition elevates the service experience by providing First class passengers with convenient, self-serve access to an assortment of non-alcoholic beverages and premium snacks throughout the flight.
While alcoholic beverages continue to be served exclusively by the flight attendant, the refreshment bar enhances the overall delivery of service by allowing cabin crews to focus their attention more efficiently across the entire aircraft. This thoughtful feature ensures First class passengers enjoy premium amenities on demand, while the streamlined setup enables the flight attendant to provide attentive and timely service to Economy passengers without compromising the quality of the First experience.
By empowering passengers with added convenience and independence, the refreshment bar redefines inflight hospitality on regional aircraft. It reflects GoJet Airlines’ commitment to providing exceptional service, blending luxury with efficiency to meet the needs of modern travellers.
Could GoJet win Cabin Concept of the Year 2025? Find out in Hamburg at our Awards celebration on Tuesday April 8 2025, at the Taste of Travel Theatre within the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE).
