Europe’s budget airlines to introduce option of ultra cheap standing seats starting 2026

Doha, Qatar: Several major European airlines are planning to swap some of their economic seats with alternative more cost effective standing seats sta...

Doha, Qatar: Several major European airlines are planning to swap some of their economic seats with alternative more cost-effective standing seats starting 2026, according to a recent report by EuroWeekly news. 

This move was introduced for the purpose of cutting costs of flight and offering ultra-low fares for passengers traveling with a tight budget, particularly in short flights under 2 hours. 

Dubbed ‘Skyrider 2.0,’ the saddle-style seats were designed by the Italian company Aviointeriors back in 2018, and they are about to become a reality by the start of next year 2026, as major European airlines, such as Ryanair, are openly supporting the idea. 

The seats are designed with a 45-degree angle tilted seating area where passengers will have to use their legs and core muscles for support. 

The design resembles a padded bicycle saddle, or a tram standing seat anchored to the floor and ceiling, and includes a seatbelt for safety.