Airbus seriously considers these double-decker airplane seats

This page is translated from the original post "Airbus envisage sérieusement ces sièges d’avion sur deux niveaux" in French.

Comment
Chaise Longue Airbus

Airbus is working on a concept inspired by the design of two-level airplane seats from the startup Chaise Longue.

The Spanish startup Chaise Longue, the originator of this controversial idea, announced that it is collaborating with Airbus to explore these innovative concepts. This bold project, which unveiled a preliminary prototype in 2023, could transform the passenger experience in the air. For Alejandro Núñez Vicente, CEO and chief engineer of Chaise Longue, this cooperation with a leading aerospace manufacturer marks a crucial step in the evolution of his project, which was born during his student days. He states he is grateful that Airbus perceives “the true potential of double-deck seats”. Airbus has confirmed to various sources that discussions are ongoing but preferred not to comment further, given the preliminary stage of the project.

Chaise Longue’s concept is based on a simple idea: remove overhead luggage compartments to create two levels within the same cabin. Passengers could choose between the upper or lower row. While the lower level might seem less attractive at first glance, it would offer more legroom, whereas the upper level promises a better reclining angle and increased comfort compared to standard economy seats. Originally designed for economy cabins, the design was adapted in 2024 to include a business/first class version.

If the risk of claustrophobia downstairs is obvious, the extra legroom could appeal to some travelers. Ultimately, the goal remains to optimize space for passengers and directly boost profits for airlines. Possibly lowering ticket prices, but oddly, no one mentions this crucial point…

On social media, the design elicits mixed reactions, ranging from mockery to criticism about a supposed intention to overload cabins. However, Núñez Vicente defends his idea, proposing a hybrid cabin mixing traditional seats and Chaise Longue, while emphasizing the economic advantages for airlines. With Airbus’s support, he sees this project as a feasible revolution, although still distant, to improve in-flight comfort.

ALSO READ: Global Airlines, an unknown airline with secondhand Airbus A380s

We also suggestthese articles:

Innovation

Mercedes Generalizes the Transparent Hood Engine

Recent articles