Airbus has called on the aviation industry to improve passenger comfort by setting a minimum standard for aircraft seat width.
The plane maker wants a minimum standard of 18 inches (45.72cm) in order to improve the comfort of long haul air travel.
The call follows ground-breaking research conducted by Harley Street medical practice, The London Sleep Centre.
By recording every standard physiological sleep measurement – including monitoring brainwaves, eye, abdominal, chest and hip leg movement – on a selection of passengers, the London Sleep Centre found that a minimum seat width of 18 inches improved passenger sleep quality by 53% when compared to the 1950’s 17-inch standard.
Dr Irshaad Ebrahim, of The London Sleep Centre, said the difference was significant. "All passengers experienced a deeper, less disturbed and longer nights’ sleep in the 18-inch seat.
"Whilst, in the narrower 17- inch seat the passengers were affected by numerous disturbances during sleep – which meant they rarely experienced deep restorative sleep.
"When it comes to flying long haul in economy, an inch makes a huge difference on passenger comfort," Dr Ebrahim said.
Kevin Keniston, Airbus’ head of passenger comfort said: "There is now a growing cohort of economy passengers who are not prepared to accept long haul 17-inch crusher seats.
"Instead they will choose airlines that offer better seat comfort, often turning to social media or specialist websites to determine true seat value."
