Imagine boarding your cross-ocean flight, prepared for the cramped seats and uncomfortable sleeping positions that await, and then finding a pleasant surprise as you locate your row and seat number. The planes of the future may be equipped with an oft-desired feature for uncomfortable travelers: adjustable airplane seats.
The SII Group, a German engineering and technology company, developed the concept for what they call SANTO seats. SANTO is an acronym for Special Accommodation Needs for Toddlers and Overweight Passengers. Using this model, a row of seats will have one standard-yet-slightly wider seat, and a second seat that is more of a loveseat with room for a wider passenger, a physically disabled passenger or a mother and a child. The seats would be able to receive and accommodate approved travel seats for children, if requested by the passenger.
The new airplane seats will solve the issues of inadequate and unsafe child seating options, seat belt size and overall seat space. The installation of these seats would take place mainly toward the back of the cabin where the plane begins to narrow.
SII has been awarded the Crystal Cabin Award for Passenger Comfort Hardware for this innovative new product that would change the comfort level of the ever-evolving traveler.
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