To save weight, the SPICE concept makes a major innovative step by putting today's standard meal-trays into lightweight boxes, instead of trolleys. Foldable Service Carts are then used to transport the boxes during passenger service.

The design of the SPICE boxes, galleys and equipment is harmonised to use space in the most efficient and modular way.

With these changes, SPICE can save 400-600kg of weight and enough space to gain 2-3 economy seats, on a typical widebody aircraft seating 250-300 passengers. What's more, these benefits are available with minimal change to today's ways of serving passengers, and preparing food for loading onto aircraft.

Beyond economics, SPICE offers other major advantages by solving several key issues which limit today's galley designs. These advantages include:

• Equipment to segregate waste for implementing recycling initiatives
• Improved workspace for the crew through elimination of lifting heavy boxes
• Plug & Play galley equipment to enable airlines to implement route specific menus or adapt on-board catering to changing passenger tastes
• A higher volume of galley chilled, with lower chilled temperatures

Airbus has been working very closely with airlines and airline caterers over the past two years to make SPICE ready for service, and many testing activities are already completed. Airbus plans that SPICE will be available for aircraft deliveries early next decade.