The “Nice Intellitable” prototype from Lufthansa Technik showcases a new approach to in-flight entertainment: rather than adding extra screens, the touchscreen is seamlessly integrated into the folding table.
Hidden Screen: Lufthansa Turns Fold-Out Table Into Touch Display
Lufthansa Technik, Lufthansa’s technology subsidiary, is continuously exploring new ideas for in-flight entertainment. The latest concept for private jets and premium cabins is now being presented at the Dubai Airshow: the Nice Intellitable. The system integrates a touchscreen directly into the folding table, where it remains invisible until activated.
The display can be embedded into surfaces with wood, carbon or metal finishes, and its sealed design protects it from spills, cutlery or other hard objects. When passengers need the full table for dining, the interface shrinks to a small side window or disappears entirely.
Natural integration instead of visible tech
The core idea behind the Nice Intellitable is seamless integration – technology and entertainment should blend naturally into the cabin environment.
“Sometimes, there seems to be a disconnect between how airlines and VIP operators design their control solutions, and how their passengers actually interact with the cabin environment,” said Andrew Muirhead, Lufthansa Technik’s VP Original Equipment and Special Aircraft Services. “To get rid of traditional control interfaces, which sometimes can feel bulky and outdated, we are permanently rethinking how technology integrates with interior design, creating more cohesive and natural interactions.”
The demonstrated model already includes the essential functions of a cabin display: flight information, seat controls, previews and ordering for food and beverages, music and video playback, and digital magazine browsing.
From wall display to multifunctional surface
The Nice Intellitable builds on the Hidden Touch Display, which earned Lufthansa Technik a Red Dot Design Award earlier this year. While the first version was installed vertically in the cabin wall, the new iteration has been miniaturized so it can be integrated into a wider range of surfaces.
Just a few years ago, Lufthansa was still focused on traditional high-end screen technology. Through its Aerq joint venture with LG, the group tested next-generation IFE concepts – such as 14-inch 4K OLED displays with streaming capabilities at every seat. But after five years, the start-up discontinued operations in 2024.
