Posted 02 Jul 2009

An airline in China has applied to the government for permission to allow its passengers to stand up for the duration of their journeys in a bid to save space and money, it has emerged.

In a novel move, Spring Airlines, which has experienced significant growth and a surge in passengers despite the economic downturn, plans to allow its customers to stand up during their flights.

This would create enough space for 40 per cent more passengers, it argues, meaning that those on a gap year in China could opt for a more vertical experience, should they wish to.

The airline’s president Wang Zhengua revealed that the idea was not originally the airline’s, but vice-premier of China Zhang Dejiang’s.

"He suggested that, for a lower price, passengers should be able to get on a plane like catching a bus, with no seat, no luggage consignment, no food, no water, but very convenient," Mr Wang explained.

In May, Spring Airlines announced that it planned to increase the size of its fleet by six more aircrafts over the next three years, taking its count up to 30, China Daily reported.

Category: Asia