The "University" category is one of the most innovative areas of the Crystal Cabin Awards and is intended to provide a forum for particularly creative designs.

This year, the award goes to a team from Tongji University in Shanghai for the "Flexifold" concept. The innovative economy seat offers airlines more flexibility and new revenue opportunities. A folding and snapping mechanism provides efficient body support. The design combines lightweight and comfort with three cushions for customisable privacy, recline angle and footrest that can be easily attached to existing seats.