Budget Airlines set to introduce standing seats starting 2026
Standing-Only Airline Seats: Good Idea or Too Much?
A few low-cost airlines are trying to innovate by experimenting with new stands instead of sit airline seats. These are referred to as standing-only seats and could be coming on board for the purposes of saving costs and maximizing space in the near future.
Let’s break down the pros and cons of this concept:
✅ Pros:
Each aircraft can carry more passengers.
Tickets become affordable for the general public.
Quicker boarding and disembarking the aircraft.
The aircraft becomes lighter, resulting in less fuel consumption.
✅Cons:
Traveling long distances in a plane remains uncomfortable.
May result in damage to the body such as the legs, back, and posture.
Difficult for elderly and those with chronic ailnesses.
Requires approval from safety regulators in many jurisdictions.
This concept is unique and illustrates the lengths airlines will go to in order try and maximize profits. But at the same time, we need to consider: Is this level discomfort really achievable just to save money?
Would you be willing to fly in a standing position to get cheap tickets? Or are you someone who believes a comfortable seat should always be available on a flight?
Incognito Mystery Shopping Consultancy is ranked in the top 10 for airline mystery audits in the UAE. We help airlines find ways to improve customer service — even for new ideas like standing seats!