Europe’s low-cost airlines keep breaking records with rock-bottom fares – often at the expense of passenger comfort. So when a story resurfaced online claiming that Ryanair would soon sell “standing” seats for just $9, it spread fast. Before you picture yourself leaning against a bar for a two-hour flight, here is the truth behind the story.
What are “standing seats”?
The concept that keeps circulating shows a very narrow seat, a little like a bicycle saddle. Instead of sitting normally, passengers lean against it at an angle in a semi-standing position. Designs typically include a backrest for support and special safety belts, and their compact shape would allow airlines to squeeze more passengers onto each plane – in theory lowering fares.
Really $9 a flight?
Viral reports claim that flights with standing seats could cost as little as $9. That fits the image of airlines like Ryanair, which already sell some very cheap tickets – but there is no official confirmation of any such prices or seats.
Ryanair says no
Ryanair has made clear that it has no plans to introduce standing seats. The images in the viral posts are usually of the SkyRider, a prototype by Italian seat maker Aviointeriors first shown more than a decade ago, which never went into commercial service on any airline.
Where did the idea come from?
The story goes back to the 2000s, when Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary became famous for floating provocative ideas to grab headlines, including standing seats, charging to use the toilet and a “fat tax”. Most of these were publicity stunts rather than real plans.
Could it ever be safe?
In theory, perhaps. Seat designs like the SkyRider have been presented as able to meet safety standards. But any new seat would need full certification from aviation regulators such as EASA before it could be used.
So why isn’t it happening?
The biggest problem is comfort. Even on short flights, standing or half-standing could cause discomfort, fatigue and circulation problems. Airlines already face criticism over cramped cabins, and such seats would likely provoke a strong backlash from passengers.
Will we see it in the future?
It does not look likely any time soon. For now, standing seats remain just a concept. Note that at the time of writing, Ryanair was not flying to Israel and had not announced a return date – see our Ryanair guide and read about how low-cost airlines keep fares down.
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