‘Standing Seats’ concept unrealistic claim Indian aviation stakeholders

Mumbai: The concept of ‘Standing Seats’ or `Vertical Seats,’ which was initially coined by Airbus in 2003, is the latest grapevine in the global aviation industry. The concept is now being reviewed by China-based Spring Airlines and Ireland’s Ryanair. The concept will help airlines cut 20 per cent cost and carry additional 40 per cent passengers. For this, Spring Airlines has approached Airbus while Ryanair has spoken to Boeing. Both the airlines are ready to offer this service (once the safety checks are cleared by respective local aviation ministry) for almost half the total fare on short haul flights. Both the manufacturers are positive about vertical seating. The governments of Ireland and China are yet to approve plans proposed by both the airlines.
TravelBiz Monitor asked Indian Low Cost Carriers (LCCs) if they would consider this option in the near future. A source from SpiceJet opined, “The concept of vertical seating sounds thrilling and amusing. But I don't think the concept can take off in the Indian market. Its known that LCCs are growing in Indian skies due to high demand, but this doesn't mean Indians will be opting for standing option for short haul flights.”
Sanjay Kumar – Chief Commercial Officer, IndiGo Airlines said, “....even if this concept takes off globally, I don't think that Indian passengers will be open to the idea of standing seats.”
Koustav Dhar, COO & Executive Director, MDLR Airlines Ltd. said, “Technically the concept sounds unrealistic. There are hardly any chances of clearing safety hazards by the governing or monitoring body of aviation sector...”
30/07/09 Anita Jain/TravelBizMonitor

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Categories: Indian Aviation- In General Jul 2009, New Jul 2009