Remember the evil plan by Airbus to pack more passengers into an aircraft with stacked seats? Good news: it’s not real—yet. But something else equally shocking, if not more shocking, is happening in Europe’s airlines. Low-cost airlines are seriously considering standing-only seats. Yes, really! 🤯
Passengers would be half-standing throughout the flight, with only a backrest and a bicycle-style saddle to lean on. This means, limited snooze time—that’s if you can even take a wink standing! Actually, I had before when taking a train, so I guess it is doable? At least you’d be strapped in, right?
This spine-testing, leg-day-approved invention is called Skyrider 2.0. Italian seat maker Aviointeriors came up with it back in 2018 and recently dusted it off to redefine discomfort. The idea is simple: cram 20% more passengers into the same metal tube by offering 23 inches of seat pitch and a perch instead of a full seat.
Skyrider 2.0 reportedly passes safety regulations, weighs 50% less than standard economy seats, and costs less to maintain. While airlines find it intriguing, the public reaction is less enthusiastic, ranging from “please don’t” to “are we livestock now?”
In an era of rising fuel costs and relentless efficiency drives, this could become the future of ultra-budget travel. Just don’t expect to nap or hold onto any dignity. On the bright side, maybe the airlines will throw in a protein shake and call it a workout.
Would you be willing to stand—literally—for cheaper tickets?
Images: Aviointeriors.
Story via TimeOut/EuroWeekly News.
