Budget Airlines may launch standing-only seats in 2026 after being told they have passed safety tests that require design. The upright roller coaster-style padded seating allows passengers to lean, but not sit, creating 20% capacity per flight.
The Skyrider standing sheet was first revealed in 2018 by Italian manufacturer Aviointeriors.
A spokesman for AvioInteriors said in 2018:
“Skyrider 2.0 opens the travel experience to a wider passenger market and creates useful space for introducing mixed classes on the same aircraft.
“Its main feature is the original bottom that ensures an increased upright passenger position that allows seats to be installed with reduced pitches while maintaining proper comfort.”
The spokesman said, “This seat design allows carriers to increase passenger numbers by 20% and increase airline profits.”
Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary has been supporting the “standing berth” since 2012, suggesting that fares could be as low as £1.
However, at the moment, the airline has not confirmed that seats will be introduced.
