Airbus is testing a bold new double-decker seating design aimed at maximizing space, but not everyone is convinced. A key detail about the lower deck has sparked debate, with passengers questioning comfort and practicality.
According to indiandefencereview.com, Flying economy class has always been a game of trade-offs: tight legroom, limited reclining, and the occasional battle for the armrest. But now, Airbus is testing a double-decker seating concept that could change everything—or make things even worse.
The Squeeze in Economy Class
Airlines have spent years cramming more seats onto planes, sacrificing legroom in the name of profit. For passengers, this means tighter spaces, stiff knees, and an all-around uncomfortable journey—especially on long-haul flights.
Now, Chaise Longue start-up, is working with Airbus to test a solution that could make flying feel less like a sardine can. The idea? Stacking seats on two levels to maximize space.
How Do Double-Decker Airplane Seats Work?
The concept is surprisingly simple. Instead of traditional rows of seats at the same level, each row alternates between a normal floor level and a raised platform.
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The top row enjoys full reclining without disturbing the person behind.
The bottom row gains extra legroom—but at a cost.
This approach could be a game-changer for passenger comfort, offering more space without reducing the number of seats. However, some travelers have already pointed out a rather unfortunate downside.
The ‘Fart Zone’ Controversy
Social media users were quick to highlight a major issue: passengers in the bottom row are sitting at head level with the rear end of the person in front.
Critics have dubbed it the “fart zone”, arguing that no amount of extra legroom can make up for an awkward face-to-butt seating arrangement. Twitter users didn’t hold back:
“Not gonna fly with someone’s butt in front of my nose. Sorry.”
“One fart away from the No Fly list.”
“They’re going to charge you extra to avoid the a-in-the-face row, aren’t they?”
For some, the trade-off isn’t worth it. Sure, bottom-row passengers get more room to stretch out, but at what cost?
A Vision for the Future—or a Doomed Idea?
Despite the backlash, Alejandro Núñez Vicente, CEO and founder of Chaise Longue, remains optimistic. In a LinkedIn post, he described the project as “the dawn of a new era for commercial aviation.”
He insists the design is about improving the passenger experience, giving travelers what they “truly deserve.” When asked about the gas concern, he brushed it off, saying:
“With some common sense and maturity, you should be able to find your answer.”
His argument? Airplane seat cushions, covers, and plastic shells create a barrier, making the so-called “fart zone” a non-issue.
Will Airlines Actually Adopt It?
For now, this double-decker seating remains in the experimental phase, but with Airbus involved, the idea has some weight behind it.
Could this be the future of air travel? Or is it destined to be another overhyped, never-adopted aviation concept? Either way, if this seating plan ever takes off, one thing is certain—passengers will be paying extra to avoid the bottom row.
