A new type of seat is about to completely turn the experience of flying into low -cost airlines. From 2026, some carriers such as Ryanair may allow passengers to travel no longer sitting in the traditional way, but in vertical structures that resemble bicycle selins.
Project gains green light in the UK
These seats, known as SkyRider 2.0, are produced by the Italian company Aviointeriors and recently received green light after safety assessments in the United Kingdom, according to the Spanish portal HuffPost. It is an innovation that, according to manufacturers, can represent a milestone in the commercial aviation industry.
Design inspired by bikes
Design is anything but conventional: each structure includes a small saddle -shaped, back -shaped seat and steel bars that connect each row to the floor and the ceiling of the aircraft. This arrangement allows you to occupy less space per passenger.
Expected use for short flights
Designed for short flights, the new model should be used only on routes that do not exceed two hours. Low Cost companies are the main interested parties in this solution due to their potential to increase aircraft capacity.
According to Aviointeriors, SkyRider 2.0 reduces manufacturing costs to traditional seats by 50%. In addition, they have fewer components, which, according to the company, ensures simpler and more economic maintenance.
Increased capacity by 20%
The goal behind this change is clear: transport more people per flight and, with this, maximize profits. The company estimates that introducing this type of seat may increase passenger capacity by aircraft by 20%.
Ryanair has already shown interest in the concept
The idea has already aroused the interest of several operators, but one of the most enthusiasts is Ryanair’s executive director, Michael O’leary. Known for his bold proposals, O’Leary has defended the use of “beds to stand” on his company’s flights.
Speaking quoted by the Daily Mail, Ryanair’s maximum official indicated that he intends to include ten queues of this type of seat in his Boeing 737 and 800, maintaining 15 other lines with conventional seats.
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Ultraeconomic prices for new places
In addition to allowing more passengers, this measure can also pave the way to a significant descent in the price of tickets. The Irish company anticipates tariffs between one and five pounds for those who choose new places.
For passengers, the main advantage will be the price, but it is expected that comfort is not the same as in conventional seats. Still, for short trips, many may consider that savings compensate for sacrifice.
Consumer associations show reservations
Aviation experts warn that the concept may still face resistance from regulators and consumer associations, especially in relation to comfort and safety during turbulence or evacuations.
Open door to expansion in Europe
Despite doubts, approval in the UK opens doors for the Skyrider 2.0 to start introduced into more European markets. It will all depend now on passenger acceptance and price competitiveness.
New era for short air trips
The debate on the way we travel wins a new chapter. The balance between accessibility and comfort is once again at the center of the strategic decisions of airlines.
According to, until 2026, it will be possible for other companies to follow Ryanair’s example and announce the adoption of these seats, changing the way the public sees short trips.
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