“Ladies and gents, this is your captain speaking. Welcome aboard Coach Airways.”
Wait, what?
I know this is a bit off-brand but recently Coach Malaysia extended the invitation over to come check out the world’s (yes, world’s!) first Coach Airways. So, without further ado, let’s get to it.
“Is it a bird? Is it plane?” “No, it’s Coach’s latest retail concept store!”
Yes, a retail concept store and café housed within a transformed Boeing 747-230B aircraft. This ambitious project, which began in April 2021, culminated in the successful acquisition, transfer, assembly, and completion of the iconic aircraft in May 2023.
Inside this one-of-a-kind retail destination visitors experience an immersive shopping experience where they can explore the plane’s cockpit, passenger and lounge cabins while perusing Coach’s collections. The interior of the plane features retail cabins offering a curated selection of all-gender ready-to-wear, bags, and travel accessories, showcasing Coach’s next generation of fashion.
“Doesn’t this all sound kind of gimmicky?”
I mean, you could argue that if the goods on sale were available in other Coach stores but they’re not! As part of the launch, Coach will release an exclusive Coach Airways Collection, featuring a range of items such as t-shirts, a passport leather case, a wheeled carry-on luggage, field tote bags, and travel accessories including luggage tags, pouches, and small wallets.
“Okay but I can just… Chill inside?”
Of course you can. Beyond the retail space, the aircraft includes a welcoming area, an immersive gallery, and a contemporary café so visitors can relax and indulge in refreshments and soak in the unique ambience of the transformed aircraft.
Now, you’re probably wondering, where exactly is this? It’s located at the Freeport A’Famosa Outlet in Malacca and word on the street is that this isn’t a permanent installation. Yeah, that’s right. Almost two years worth of effort in putting this together and there are whispers that it’s not gonna’ be here forever.
For how long? Coach has decided to play this card close to its chest so if you’re keen, best swing by before the flight takes off for good.
