Airbus Submits Patent for Bicycle-Like Seats
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Johannes Simon/Getty Images(NEW YORK) — Over the last couple of years, airlines have been cutting back on legroom to maximize the number of passengers on board aircraft. And by the looks of a new patent, the future may hold even less room for those aboard flights.
Airbus has submitted a patent in Europe for a new seat design that resembles a bicycle — minus the pedals. The seats sit atop a vertical pole and include armrests and back rests. Missing, however, are the headrests and tray tables.
The compact seats are just a concept and may never go anywhere, Airbus tells the Los Angeles Times.
“Many, if not most, of these concepts will never be developed, but in case the future of commercial aviation makes one of our patents relevant, our work is protected,” says Airbus spokeswoman Mary Anne Greczyn. “Right now these patent filings are simply conceptual.”
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