Skyrider 2.0: The New Standing-Only Plane Seat That Could Make Flights Cheaper for Filipinos

Would you sacrifice comfort for seriously cheap plane tickets? If you're a frequent budget traveller, you might want to pay attention. A bold, new seating concept called Skyrider 2.0 could be making its way to budget airlines as early as 2026, and yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Standing-only airline seats could soon be part of your next low-cost, short-haul flight. But is it worth trying?

For Filipinos looking to explore more of Europe or neighbouring countries on a tight budget, this might be a game-changer. Let’s break down what this means for travellers and what to expect on board.

Also read: 5 Must-Know Tips for Every Traveller in Case of a Cancelled Flight

What exactly is the Skyrider 2.0?

Skyrider 2.0 | Aviointeriors

Developed by Italian manufacturer Aviointeriors, the Skyrider 2.0 is a radical shift from the traditional aeroplane seat. First revealed in 2018 and now gaining traction, this new design is more like a padded bike saddle than a proper seat. It supports a 45-degree forward-leaning posture, allowing passengers to lean rather than sit, with weight supported by their legs and core.

Think of it as the air travel version of standing on a crowded MRT train, except you’ll be belted in and leaning against a seat-like perch. Each unit is mounted from both the floor and the ceiling, ensuring stability even during turbulence. It’s an unusual idea, but it has passed all the required safety checks and emergency evacuation tests.

The idea isn’t to replace regular seats completely but to offer a leaning-seat option for short flights under two hours. Whether you're flying between European cities or on short hops within Australia, this could soon be one of your booking choices.

Why are airlines pushing for standing seats?

Skyrider 2.0 | (L)Aviointeriors Official Facebook Page, (R) Euro Weekly News Official Website

The driving force behind this innovation is simple: cost reduction and efficiency. Compared to traditional economy seats, Skyrider 2.0 units are half the weight, which means lower fuel consumption and operational savings for airlines. More importantly, the design could allow planes to carry up to 20 per cent more passengers. That’s a big deal for low-cost carriers trying to maximise profits while offering ultra-low fares.

And yes, we mean really low fares. Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary, a long-time advocate of standing seats, claimed tickets could go as low as £1 to £5. That’s just around ₱70 to ₱350, practically the price of a large milk tea.

Another perk? With fewer surfaces and minimal cushioning, these standing seats would be easier to clean, allowing faster aircraft turnaround times. So not only would the seats save on fuel and maintenance, but they could also help planes depart more quickly, keeping budget carriers on schedule.

For budget-conscious Filipino travellers planning multi-city trips across Europe or Asia, this could mean even more affordable ways to travel.

Is it comfortable? What travellers are saying

Skyrider 2.0 | Economy Class and Beyond Official Website

The reaction to Skyrider 2.0 has been mixed, to say the least.

Many passengers are raising valid concerns about comfort. While two hours may seem short, staying in a forward-leaning position without full back support isn’t everyone’s idea of an enjoyable flight. People have also questioned how it might feel during turbulence or if you're already tired from a long layover.

However, some are completely on board with the idea, especially backpackers, solo travellers, or anyone just looking to get from point A to B cheaply. If the trade-off is a bit of discomfort for significantly cheaper flights, some say it’s worth it for short distances.

The seats are designed only for short-haul flights, so don’t expect to see them on long journeys like Manila to London or Manila to New York. But if you're planning a European adventure, say, hopping from Barcelona to Paris or Berlin to Prague, this seating option might just stretch your travel budget even further.

Also read: 10 Proven Ways to Score Cheap Flights

Would you fly standing?

Standing-only seating like the Skyrider 2.0 could soon change the way we travel short-haul, offering ultra-cheap fares in exchange for less comfort. It’s an appealing option for budget-conscious Filipino travellers, especially backpackers and young professionals eager to explore more destinations for less.

However, there’s no confirmation yet that airlines in the Philippines will adopt this seating by 2026. Interest has mainly come from European and Australian budget carriers, so local flyers may only experience it abroad for now. Still, it’s a glimpse into what future low-cost travel might look like.