Since most airlines now charge extra for everything involved in the flying experience, from luggage to food, the only way to make more money off the flying experience without raising the actual base cost of the flight is to cram more passengers on each plane.
Enter Aviointeriors New SkyRider Seat
Designed with three seats to a row, the SkyRider is shaped like a saddle with a backrest. This means the passenger would not be fully sitting, but partially standing with the saddle-seat to rest on.
Because passengers are partially standing, legroom has been reduced from an average of 30 inches legroom to only 23 inches. With the seats so close, the seatback tray table is only about a quarter of the size of normal airline tray tables.
What About Large and Tall Fliers?
The SkyRider seat is not designed with plus-size or tall passengers in mind.
The shape of the saddle-seat does not allow a larger flier to buy an extra seat, if needed. Not to mention, it doesn't appear the seat arms even move at all.
Tall fliers will also not be able to use these seats due to lack of legroom. Even at the current 30-plus inches, many tall fliers have limited space for their legs. Imagine whittling that down to 23 inches?
These passengers would then be forced to pay more for business or first class seats.
SkyRider Not Child-Friendly
Due to the curved shape of the seats, smaller children would have a hard time sitting in them. Legs would be dangling and any fidgeting would result in the child sliding off the seat.
Health and Safety Risks Involved
There are numerous health issues that may be incurred by the use of these seats.
Due to the saddle shape, the bulk of the upper body weight will be balanced in between the legs. This may produce numbness in that area, especially since the passenger cannot move around in the confines of the seating area.
The lack of movement and angle of the legs while seated could also cause swollen feet and legs, as well as more serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis.
The ability to squeeze more seats on a plane can also lead to safety concerns due to the increase in weight from extra passengers and extra baggage.
The Future of SkyRider Seats
Though Italian manufacturer Aviointeriors Group was quoted in USA Today that some airlines are interested in the seats, they have not yet been approved by the FAA. Until then, no American airline can install them.
However, these seats are sure to catch the eye of discount Irish carrier Ryanair. The airline petitioned its government to allow the cabins to be outfitted so that passengers would be standing, akin to riding a subway car with straps to hold on to. They were denied, however, due to the safety concerns of passengers standing during take-offs and landings.
Until these seats receive government approval, no airline can install them. But if they do, vote with money and simply choose to fly another airline.
No budget traveler should have to risk their comfort, health and safety for a cheap seat.
Michelle Snow - Michelle Snow been a freelance journalist and photographer for over twenty years, specializing in travel and entertainment. She got her ...
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