Flying presents a fundamental paradox, it is essential to global human connection, yet every kilogram carried burns fuel, increasing emissions. The aviation industry therefore faces increasing pressure to improve its environmental impact. Companies are working hard to reduce impact by designing lightweight or energy saving components, yet these innovations often remain invisible to the passengers. Current innovations look similarly to the old designs. As a result, the communication of these efforts frequently relies on abstract claims, leading to scepticism and greenwash risks.

This research explores how sustainable innovation can be communicated through aircraft cabin design. These innovations are most effectively communicated through implicit design cues supported by explicit narratives. Based on the insights, transparency, storytelling and sustainable aesthetics were identified as core strategies for the cabin environment. By visibly showcasing lightweight design, with use of transparency (physical and metaphorically) in the interior, the cabin communicates a clear story to the passengers.

Efficiency, material restraint and thoughtful design choices contribute directly to lower environmental impact. Using transparency not only as a design aesthetic, but as evidence.

The sustainable communication strategies are translated into a practical design guide intended for designers working within the aviation industry, in particular interior designers at Collins Aerospace. The guide provides a structured yet flexible approach helping designers to make sustainable innovation visible within cabin components. Without relying on overused sustainable claims or symbols.

Two example concepts demonstrate how the guide can be applied to non-load bearing, high visible cabin components. By focussing on communication through design, rather than technological performance alone.

This thesis contributes to a design approach that creates the communication of sustainable innovations within aircraft cabin interiors, prioritizing honesty and perception without compromising safety, comfort and a luxurious feel.