Low cost airlines will officially launch ‘standing only seats’ in 2026 after finally passing safety evaluations

By HAYLEY MINN

Published: 11:42 BST, 21 May 2025 | Updated: 11:42 BST, 21 May 2025

It’s a money-saving move that’s sure to divide holidaymakers – but several budget airlines will reportedly introduce standing-only seating options next year.

According to reports, the bike-style padded seats – which allow passengers to lean at an angle without completely sitting down – have now met regulation requirements and passed safety assessments.

These seats will increase passenger capacity on airlines by 20 per cent – and will come into service in 2026, on flights for up to two hours.

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has been vocal about his desire to use the ‘standing berths’ since 2012, having said he wants his Boeing’s 737 and 800 fitted with 10 rows of them, and 15 rows of traditional seats.

Michael has suggested the standing tickets may potentially cost as little as £1 to £5.

But the budget air travel idea has been met with a lot of pushback from the aviation industry, due to concerns over comfort, as well as safety during turbulence or emergencies.

However, carriers insist the new seating – which do have seatbelts – adheres to global safety regulations and will be confined to specific flights.

Meanwhile, the half-standing seats haven’t impressed prospective passengers.

It’s a money-saving move to that’s sure to divide holidaymakers – but several budget airlines will reportedly introduce standing-only seating options next year

These seats will increase passenger capacity on airlines by 20 per cent – and will come into service in 2026, on flights for up to two hours

The half-standing seats haven’t impressed prospective passengers on social media

One said: ‘This is pathetic. Treat humans like humans. My gosh.’

Another joked: ‘Soon they will strap you to the wing with an oxygen mask.’

A third added: ‘Please never buy these tickets whenever they exist! Don’t help/support this.’

And a fourth blasted: ‘I know “slave ship seating” when I see it. I’ll pass.’

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Low cost airlines will officially launch ‘standing only seats’ in 2026 after finally passing safety evaluations

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