Chic and Mac

UK aircraft interior refurbishment and manufacturing company MAC Interiors was selected by Egypt Air to refurbish three of the airline's Falcon 20 VIP jets. Marcelle Nethersole met up with MAC MD Stephen Whittaker to find out why the company is proving to be so successful in the Middle Eastern markets.
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MAC Aircraft specialists provide a full package of aircraft interior services, from concept design through to certification and installation.

“We have a team of exceptionally skilled professionals and gifted designers using the finest materials sourced from all over the world,” said Stephen Whittaker, the company’s managing director.

“Whether you require a single piece of bespoke furnishing for an executive jet, or complete multiple assemblies for an aircraft interior refurbishment, MAC Interiors will offer the right solution.”

As well as Egypt Air, MAC Interiors customers include Qatar Airways, Airbus, BAE Systems, Cathay Pacific, Lufthansa, British Airways, Boeing and Virgin Atlantic. Like everyone in the industry the 20% reduction of spend by commercial airlines has had an impact, but MAC has balance in its work for the corporate sector too.

“The VIP side of the business is still brisk; commercial airlines appear to be taking stock in the wake of the reduced revenues and looking to provide refurbishment options on existing aircraft. But through this we are also seeing changes in design,” said Whittaker.

“Customers are looking towards more contemporary interiors with a chic stylish feel to them, which we are able to provide. But we do not design for re-sale value; it is always personal taste. Our customer is priority; whatever they want we will provide but we are careful to guide them and apply all sensible options with wider appeal where it is appropriate to do so.”

MAC carries out a lot of business in the Middle East and is able to meet design demands within this region.

Whittaker explained: “We cover a wide area in the Middle East, including Kuwait , Qatar , Dubai , Saudi Arabia and Bahrain . We are popular here because we can adapt very quickly to the various subtle differences in the area’s culture and requirements. Customers here have a lot more creative ideas, which we can meet. We can provide the complete service from concept to completion and beyond. Plus, we provide considerable on-site assistance and guidance in many areas of interior support. And, for all customers, private hangar facilities are available and annual maintenance can also be provided to ensure the bespoke interiors have an exceptionally long life span to ensure peace of mind.”

MAC designs everything from galley units, seats and in-flight baby cradles to cabin dividers and oxygen storage systems. It is currently working closely with raw material manufacturers to approve lightweight versions of materials from the super yacht industry, including 3D metallic base decorative surfacing.

“We pride ourselves on technical innovation and pushing the boundaries of materials, design and manufacture. We’re skilled at interpreting the personal tastes of customers from all over the world, engaging with their individual or brand identities and creating interiors that are exclusive, while maintaining the utmost elegance, style and practicality,” said Whittaker.