You might’ve traveled standing in a bus or train, but what if we tell you that this might just become a reality in airplanes? Well, flying has been one of the most expensive modes of transportation, but some budget airlines in Europe are experimenting with newer, cheaper seating models. The Italian company Aviointeriors, is developing the Skyrider 2.0, a new seating model that might even become a reality soon. So, if you too wish to travel for cheap, here’s what you need to know about standing seats.
Standing Seats: The Next Big Innovation In Budget Flights
While economy class receives a lot of flak for being uncomfortable, companies are brainstorming to bring newer seating models. This will make budget flying more comfortable. Skyrider 2.0, being developed by the Italian company, Aviointeriors, is working on developing a newer seating model that incorporates standing seats. Yes, you heard it right!
The new seating (or standing) model will be identical to a padded bicycle saddle. This seat will be secured to the ceiling and the floor and will also come with a seatbelt for additional safety. Passengers can rest at a 45-degree angle and will have to rely on their core muscles and feet to support themselves. While it might not sound the most comfortable seating option for a long-duration flight, budget airlines might install them in short-duration flights.
Benefits Of Standing Seats
These standing seats come with their fair share of advantages. To begin with, these seats weigh about half as much as a standard economy seat. Also, these seats will take up significantly less space, allowing for more passengers to board the flight. The Italian company behind these seats says that it will accommodate 20 percent more passengers once these seats are installed.
The lighter seats and simpler design mean that maintaining them is not much of a hassle either. This cuts down maintenance costs as well as turnaround time between flights.
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In terms of safety, the company says that these seats have passed all safety tests – so in case of an emergency or in-flight risks, passengers need not worry about compromising their safety.
Estimated Pricing And Expected Roll-out
The innovative design of these standing seats is expected to be a gamechanger. However, that wouldn’t necessarily mean that these seats will cost more than economy seats. On the contrary, these seats will be even more affordable than economy seats.
While the company hasn’t disclosed exact prices, Ryanair’s Chief Executive Officer, in 2012, had stated that the standing tickets could cost only as little as 1 to 5 pounds (INR 115 to INR 576). He had also stated his desire to fit 10 rows of standing seats in Ryanair’s Boeing 737 and 800 aircraft. However, the company has not officially expressed plans of installing standing seats yet.
Summing Up
Standing seats are about to become the next big innovation in the world of commercial flying. These seats are expected to be installed in budget airlines by as early as 2026. With cheaper prices and enough comfortability, these seats are expected to revolutionize traveling for budget travelers. So, what are your thoughts on the standing seats?
