In recent years, there have been several aircraft cabin design proposals that attempt to optimize the wasted overhead space; space that has the potential to deliver a huge benefit to both passengers and the industry. Some ideas have come from industry outsiders, mainly users that wish to enhance comfort for economy passengers, while others have come from within the industry, i.e. design firms, aircraft manufacturers, airlines and collaborative projects. These concepts confirm that there is a longstanding interest in exploring vertical cabin solutions capable of delivering a greatly enhanced experience for passengers while maintaining seat density. In this section, we showcase some of the most noteworthy concepts. Some are more effective than others at covering all the basic and important elements of the cabin, whether it is safety, comfort, logistics, etc.
The fundamental aspect that sets AbH apart from any of these concepts is a counterintuitive notion—the implementation of more aisles in the cabin. It is the underlying element that makes it possible to equal or increase seat count, while making the design truly practical and feasible. This innovation parallels the addition of the second aisle, back when the first widebody—the Boeing 747—was introduced in 1969. At the time, adding a second aisle was seen by many as a waste of space, but ultimately it proved to be fundamental to the feasibility of widebody passenger aircraft. Similarly, the addition of a third, and even a fourth aisle in the cabin is an essential component in order to provide bi-level accommodations in single or double passenger units that enjoy direct access to the aisle; it also helps make boarding and deboarding faster, which can also be invaluable in case of an emergency evacuation. This translates to an enhanced and safer travel experience for passengers, as well as quicker turnaround times and more efficient cabin logistics for airlines.
Other Concepts
Zephyr Seat 2018
Toyota Boshoku 2021
"Cloud Capsule" was nomitanted for the Cristal Cabin Judges Choice Awards
Air New Zealand "Sky Couch" 2021
First "sleeper mode" offered for economy class long haul flights.
Chaise Lounge 2021
Chase Lounge aims to make users flight more comfortable whilst elevating seat count.
Air New Zealand "Sky Nest" 2023
Air New Zealand's Sky Nest is the only bed concept actually in the market, and has attained excellent reviews, opening economy-class passengers' appetite for these kinds of solutions.
