WASHINGTON - As coronavirus cases continue to rise, it’s clear that the standard plane cabin layouts we’re used to aren’t working in a pandemic. A face mask is less reassuring when you’re sitting elbow-to-elbow with a stranger for an extended period of time, with many airlines no longer distancing passengers as the pandemic threatens their business model, Shannon McMahon reports for The Washington Post. Continue reading original article.
The Intelligent Aerospace take:
August 20, 2020-During the COVID-19 pandemic, some airlines have left middle seats open as a way to practice social distancing. Of course, every seat left open is a fare not paid, so design firms are working to change passenger cabin layouts and redesigned configurations, including double-decker cabins.
"It’s important to innovate while being mindful of the realities of the world we live in. We know, for instance, that keeping the middle seat free is not a viable economic model for airlines," says Anna Meyer, a spokesperson for London-based design firm PriestmanGoode to The Times. "Equally, we know that screens between every seat does not present the best investment at this time. Nor will it suit all passengers, especially families or couples traveling together."
Related: Southwest extends 'open middle seat' policy and adds health declaration for customers
Jamie Whitney, Associate Editor
Intelligent Aerospace
