'Standing' tickets proposed by Chinese airline
(01 July 2009)A private Chinese airline wants to introduce low price "standing-room-only" tickets for passengers willing to stand for the duration of the flight.
Spring Airlines says it could submit the revolutionary idea for aviation regulator and government approval within the year, with the extra-budget tickets to go on sale as soon as approved.
"It's just like bar stools," said Spring Airlines spokesperson Zhang Wuan. "The safety belt is the most important thing. It will still be fastened around the waist."
The airline's president Wang Zhenghua said he is confident of getting the green light for the scheme, because the idea was initially proposed by China's vice premier Zhang Dejiang.
"He suggested that, for a lower price, passengers should be able to get on a plane like catching a bus, with no seat, no luggage consignment, no food, no water, but very convenient," Mr Zhenghua said.
Spring Airlines, whose fleet is predominantly Airbuses, claims it has been reassured by the manufacturer that the proposal is safe.
The standing jet could accommodate 40% more passengers compared with a traditional plane and could help airlines cut 20% of their costs, while lowering airfares for consumers.
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