It’s a money-saving move that’s sure to divide holidaymakers – but several budget airlines are reportedly set to introduce standing-only seating options.
According to Instagram account @entrepreneurshipquote, which has 2.8 million followers, the bike-style padded seats – which allow passengers to lean at an angle without completely sitting down – could be introduced as early as 2026.
These seats, which are being introduced by manufacturer Aviointeriors, will increase passenger capacity by 20 per cent.
However, Avionteriors declined to comment when approached by MailOnline, and no airlines have yet to officially confirm they have plans to introduce the money-saving venture.
The upright seating is called Skyrider 2.0 and was initially unveiled at the Aircraft Interiors Expo 2018 in Hamburg.
The horse saddle-style seating is an improved version of a concept it tried – and failed – to launch in 2010.
Skyrider 2.0 has more padding than the previous version and firmer mountings, with poles connecting each row to the ceiling and floor, instead of the frame just being fitted to a rail.
It said in a statement in 2018: ‘The Skyrider 2.0 is an innovative seat. It allows an ultra-high density in the aircraft cabin. Skyrider 2.0 opens the travelling experience to a wider passenger market, creating also a useful space for the introduction of mixed classes boarded on the same aircraft.
‘Its main feature is the original bottom that ensures an increased upright passenger positon allowing installation of the seat at a reduced pitch, while maintaining an adequate comfort.
‘The design of this seat enables [carriers] to increase the passenger number by 20 per cent allowing increasing profits for airline companies.’
At the time, the company added that Skyrider 2.0 weighs 50 per cent less than standard economy seats and has a reduced number of components for ‘minimum maintenance costs’.
Its claim is that this seating represents ‘the new frontier of low-cost tickets and passenger experience’.
Ryanair chief Michael O’Leary has been vocal about his desire to use the ‘standing berths’.
In 2012, he said he wanted his Boeing's 737 and 800 fitted with 10 rows of them and 15 rows of traditional seats.
At the time, Michael suggested the standing tickets may potentially cost as little as £1 to £5.
But the half-standing seats haven’t impressed prospective passengers on social media.
One said: ‘This is pathetic. Treat humans like humans. My gosh.’
Another joked: ‘Soon they will strap you to the wing with an oxygen mask.’
A third added: ‘Please never buy these tickets whenever they exist! Don’t help/support this.’
And a fourth blasted: ‘I know “slave ship seating” when I see it. I’ll pass.’
