Will It Work? Budget Airlines Plan to Introduce Standing Seats to Cut Costs & Pack More Passengers
Brace yourself—literally! Budget airlines are set to launch controversial standing-only seats by 2026 after receiving safety approval. Several low-cost carriers are considering the “Skyrider 2.0” seats—a bike-style padded seating arrangement—for short-haul flights, allowing airlines to increase passenger capacity by 20% and reduce weight, potentially leading to lower ticket prices.
What Is Skyrider 2.0?
The “Skyrider 2.0” seats, designed by Italian manufacturer Aviointeriors, feature a saddle-style design where passengers lean at an angle rather than fully sitting down. These seats have passed all safety and regulatory tests but are intended only for flights under two hours.
A Revamped Concept from 2018
The Skyrider 2.0 was first unveiled at the Aircraft Interiors Expo 2018 in Hamburg as an improved version of a failed 2010 concept. The new design includes more padding, firmer mountings, and structural poles connecting each row to the ceiling and floor for enhanced stability.
Airlines Eye Higher Profits and Lower Costs
Aviointeriors claims the Skyrider 2.0 allows airlines to increase passenger capacity by 20% while reducing seat weight by 50% compared to standard economy seats. With fewer components, maintenance costs are also minimized.
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary hinted that standing tickets could cost as low as £1–£5 (approx. $1.25–$6.25 or ₹85–₹425), making ultra-cheap air travel a reality.
Safety and Comfort Concerns Persist
Despite regulatory approval, the aviation industry has raised concerns over passenger comfort and safety during turbulence or emergencies. While the seats include seatbelts and comply with global safety standards, critics argue that prolonged leaning may be uncomfortable.
FAQs
- Will passengers stand the entire flight?
No—passengers will lean on a padded saddle-style seat rather than fully stand. - How long will these flights last?
Skyrider 2.0 will only be used for flights up to two hours.
With budget airlines pushing for cost-cutting innovations, the Skyrider 2.0 could revolutionize short-haul travel—but will passengers embrace the change?
