- There has been a backlash on TikTok regarding the unveiling of a new prototype for double-decker airplane seats.
- People argue that the design, although providing more legroom, would be unpleasant in a unique way.
- This design had faced similar criticisms when it was originally previewed last year.
TikTokers are mocking a new prototype of double-decker economy class airplane seats, claiming that it would be cramped and result in unpleasant odors for passengers seated beneath them.
The backlash began after CNN shared a preview clip of the seats at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Germany earlier this month.
In the clip, CNN travel writer Francesca Street interviewed Alejandro Nunez Vicente, the designer behind the unusual seat design, which resembles rollercoaster seats.
Street mentioned that Vicente had first unveiled the prototype last year but faced criticism for its claustrophobic feel, which Vicente found surprising.
“We have significantly improved the design to provide more legroom, storage space, and an enhanced passenger experience,” Vicente explained.
Street noted that some airlines have shown interest in the product, but its deployment may still be a while away. She praised the added personal space but acknowledged that the lower row felt a bit tight, and passengers may still compete for elbow space.
TikTokers have taken pleasure in ridiculing the prototype, highlighting various reasons why it should not be used on flights. The most common concerns were the claustrophobic appearance of being seated under a row of seats and the potential for passengers above to pass gas into the faces of those on the lower level.
Others worried about the risks of turbulence causing passengers on the lower level to hit their heads on the seats above or face difficulties accessing the upper tier of seating.
“This would be an accessibility nightmare! 50% of seats would be difficult for many people to access,” commented one individual on the CNN video. “It would require significant changes to the booking services.”
“What about legroom in the upper tier? There’s none!” added another critic.
One of the most viral responses to the prototype came from news influencer Dylan Page, who dubbed the seat design “the two layers of hell” and suggested that this would probably be the closest one would get to “a stranger’s ass.” The video garnered over 4.5 million views and received numerous comments agreeing with the criticism.
“Imagine the people behind you after eating Taco Bell,” read one popular comment.
In a popular video, the prototype was acknowledged to have some benefits, but it was also noted that certain odors could easily travel between seat levels.
“New option: All-flight foot aroma for those who prefer lower seats,” quipped the video maker in the description.
One woman criticized how a baby’s crying might sound more intense if it came from above and expressed concern about fussy children causing additional problems if they were seated above others.
However, amidst the wave of criticism, there were some positive comments. One viewer described the design as “very unique,” while another suggested that people would be willing to fly this way if it resulted in cheaper fares.
Insider has reached out to Chaise Longue for comment.
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