Abstract: A lightweight aircraft seat based on resin preimpregnated carbon fibre comprises a bluff rectangular spar (20) integrally secured to J-tubes (26) and a diaphragm (31) spanning between the J-tubes. The spar (20) is located in a recess (16) in a leg (22) of I-section also of carbon fibre. A curvilinar front portion (24) of the seat of core and skin construction and of constant profile is cantilevered forwardly and upwardly from the spar (20). The J-tubes (26) are formed with attachment points (27), (28), (30) for seat belts, a seat back (41) and armrests.

Abstract: A seat frame assembly for an aircraft or like seat comprises a leg 2 terminating at its lower end in a mechanical anchor for location in a floor fixing track. At least one laterally extending spar or beam 1 is fastened to the leg 2 and at least two seat support members 4 are fastened to the spar. The seat support members, leg and spar or beam have load bearing shells of fiber reinforced plastics defined by inner layers of carbon fiber disposed in an anisotropic or a quasi anisotropic structure and an outer layer or aramid fibers. Either a single beam of non-circular cross-section or at least two contiguous parallel laterally extending spars may be attached to the seat support members and the leg so that loads on the seat frame members are transmitted through the spars to the leg and the assembly acts as an integral structure.