RTX Corp Shines at 2026 Crystal Cabin Awards with Innovative SkyNook Solution

On April 15, 2026, RTX Corporation (NYSE: RTX) announced that its subsidiary, Collins Aerospace, has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Crystal Cabin Award for its innovative SkyNook solution. This achievement marks a significant milestone in enhancing passenger comfort within the aviation industry and showcases Collins Aerospace’s commitment to reimagining air travel experiences.

The Crystal Cabin Award, celebrated annually during the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Germany, is recognized as the highest accolade in the field of aircraft interiors. Collins Aerospace won first prize in the Passenger Comfort category, highlighting the transformative potential of the SkyNook solution.

SkyNook is ingeniously designed to reclaim often underutilized space at the rear of widebody aircraft. In areas where the fuselage narrows, airlines typically install double seats instead of the standard triple configuration. The SkyNook system deploys a convertible console in this frequently overlooked section, allowing it to serve multiple purposes. It provides a secure location for car seats, bassinets, pet carriers, and even extends into a work or dining surface.

Jefferey McKee, Director of Customer Experience Design at Collins Aerospace, emphasized the dedication of the team in crafting innovative solutions that maximize space efficiency. He stated, "SkyNook exemplifies this commitment, transforming a frequently overlooked area into a serene retreat that maximizes functionality, comfort, and flexibility for families, passengers with service animals, or those with sensory considerations."

In addition to optimizing space, SkyNook is equipped with a privacy divider that serves multiple purposes. This feature not only creates a visual barrier from the aisle and adjacent passengers but also offers sound dampening from the galley and lavatory areas. Such enhancements are pivotal in providing passengers with a more tranquil and enjoyable travel experience.

With this latest win, Collins Aerospace has now amassed a total of 16 Crystal Cabin Awards in the program's 20-year history. This remarkable achievement underscores the company's consistent dedication to passenger comfort and innovative design in the aerospace industry.

Demonstrations of the SkyNook solution are currently taking place at the Collins Aerospace booth during the Aircraft Interiors Expo, allowing industry professionals and stakeholders a firsthand look at the future of passenger cabin design.

Collins Aerospace, a leader in integrated and intelligent aerospace solutions, employs over 80,000 individuals dedicated to advancing sustainable aviation, passenger safety, and comfort. RTX, with a workforce exceeding 180,000, is committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and science, aiming to redefine connectivity and protection on a global scale.

In 2025, RTX reported sales exceeding $88 billion, further solidifying its position as a key player in the aerospace and defense sectors. The company remains headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, as it continues to tackle critical challenges facing the industry.

As the aviation landscape continues to evolve, innovations like the SkyNook solution from Collins Aerospace signal a promising future for enhanced passenger experiences in air travel.