Low-cost airlines across Europe will introduce standing-only seats from 2026. The new configuration uses Skyrider 2.0 seats. The saddle-style seats allow passengers to lean forward at a 45° angle. Passengers will remain secured using a seatbelt fixed to both the seat and the floor.
Lean-in perches reduce weight and increase capacity
Italian manufacturer Aviointeriors designed the Skyrider 2.0 seat in 2018. Each seat weighs about half of a regular economy seat. The design reduces fuel costs and increases passenger capacity by up to 20 per cent. Airlines will use the configuration on short-haul routes under two hours. Flights such as Madrid to Lisbon or Manchester to Edinburgh fall into this category.
Ryanair continues low-cost strategy
Irish airline Ryanair has pushed the standing seat concept since 2012. CEO Michael O’Leary has championed the idea for over a decade. O’Leary suggested installing 15 rows of regular seats and 10 rows of standing “berths.” The Boeing 737-800 currently holds 189 passengers across 24 rows. The Skyrider design could increase this to 230 passengers.
Ultra-low fares attract passengers
Standing tickets may cost between €1 and €5, or roughly $2 to $10. Ryanair’s current fares, such as £14.99 from Manchester to Paris, could drop significantly. The new seats also allow faster cleaning and boarding, reducing aircraft turnaround times. Airlines across Spain and Eastern Europe are reportedly exploring the model.
Skyrider clears safety regulations
Aviointeriors confirmed the seats have passed all safety tests. Emergency evacuation drills were completed as part of regulatory checks. Airlines claim the seating complies with global safety requirements. Carriers have stated that standing seats will appear only on select routes.
Potential rollout in Australia
The concept could extend to Australia’s domestic market. Routes like Sydney to Melbourne may benefit due to short duration. That route is Australia’s busiest, with 9 million seats recorded in 2024. Flights currently take about 90 minutes. Jetstar’s entry fare stands at $79. The new seating may significantly reduce this price.
Demonstration of seating on Skyrider 2.0 seats
Public response divided
Many passengers remain sceptical about the experience. Social media users expressed a mix of support and concern. One said, “I love a deal, but I’ll pass on leg day at 40,000 feet.” Another said, “£3 to Paris (€3.45)? Tempting… if only I could recline.” One commenter stated, “We are humans, not cattle.”
Criticism highlights corporate priorities
Scepticism also focuses on corporate decisions. A user posted, “Corporations will do anything other than paying their CEOs slightly less money.” Michael O’Leary is reportedly set to earn a $100 million bonus in 2025. Another commenter said, “One year later these will cost what regular seats cost and regular seats will cost double.” Others expressed concern about safety, turbulence, luggage, and accessibility.
Supporters defend innovation
Some passengers showed support for the model. One said, “It’s perfect for short flights and will actually allow me to stretch my legs.” Another stated, “I don’t really have to sit fully for a 40-minute short flight across the pond anyway.”
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Speculation around US budget carriers
No airline has officially confirmed adoption of the Skyrider seats. Observers noted that the prototypes are yellow. This has prompted speculation about Spirit Airlines. Spirit uses yellow branding and currently charges $US100 for New York to Los Angeles flights.
Unanswered questions remain
Airlines have not addressed overhead luggage arrangements. Some suggest overhead cabins could be removed to fit more passengers. Others believe cabin storage may be restricted to wallets or small bags only.
A shift towards bus-like air travel
Analysts describe the approach as a bus or train in the sky. Passengers would tap on and lean instead of sit. The system mimics other forms of rapid, low-cost transport. Flights under two hours appear to be the primary focus.
Future of air travel under review
Low-cost airlines have begun steps to implement the standing seat model. Full-scale rollout could begin as early as 2026. The move may affect how budget carriers structure fares and cabin layouts.
Passengers remain cautious
Despite regulatory approval, public perception remains cautious. Some view the change as innovative, while others see it as a downgrade. The true outcome may depend on how airlines balance price, comfort, and safety.
