Could Future Economy Class Cabins Have Glass Hygiene Screens?

As domestic flights open up in many countries we are all looking at how these are operated. Many airlines are looking at some very innovative concepts and Italian firm – Aviointeriors – who already manufacture airline seats, have an interesting concept. Designed to ‘keep the middle seat’ occupied 🙂

An Italian aviation design firm has unveiled a new product that could change the face of economy class travel. With airlines looking to safeguard passengers when demand returns, many are considering how social distancing could be maintained on a plane. Aviointeriors has developed a concept solution; a hygienic screen to cocoon passengers and keep them separate from their neighbors. Let’s take a look at Glassafe, a potential post-COVID-19 economy cabin modification.

Social distancing in flight

One of the biggest challenges facing airlines today is how to return flying to the masses, without breaking social distancing rules. Some are considering blocking middle seats in a bid to distance passengers/

Neither of these solutions is without its drawbacks. Blocking middle seats would cut airline fare revenue by a third, a consequence of which would likely be increased fares for the rest of us. Testing every passenger is workable for now, but its unlikely airlines will be able to manage 100% testing rates when demand begins to come back.

Italian firm Aviointeriors believes it has a more effective solution. Its newly announced Glassafe product is designed to shield passengers from their neighbors and those passing through the aisle by cocooning each one in a plastic shield. It sounds awful, but in practice, it actually looks rather nice.

How does Glassafe work?

Glassafe is manufactured from transparent material, allowing light to pass through and keep the cabin bright and fresh. It is described by the company as a ‘kit level solution,’ meaning it is easily installed on existing cabin seats without any expensive modifications. It effectively creates a barrier around each passenger, in a bid to reduce the risk of transmission of things like the coronavirus.

You can read their statement about its new product concept, Aviointeriors .