Aviation

Why do Ryanair seats have NO back pockets? Ryanair has uncovered the design of its ‘game changing’ new seats

Ryanair has unveiled the design of its ‘game changing’ new seats which will benefit passengers.

But the budget Irish airline still won’t use back pockets.

The new seats will give customers 31 inches of legroom, one inch more than the current design.

They will also be lighter and will enable the aircraft to fit 197 seats on board instead of 189.

This means fares will be lower for passengers, according to the airline.

The seats will be installed on Ryanair’s new fleet of Boeing 737 MAX 200, due to be delivered in spring 2019.

But as is the case with the current seats, there won’t be any back pockets on the new design.

Ryanair hasn’t used back pockets on its seats in over a decade. The airline says this enables a quicker turnaround time by reducing the amount of items to be cleaned and checked.

A spokesperson said: “Ryanair’s current fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft have a seat pitch of 30 inches – more legroom than British Airways and Lufthansa economy seats.

“All Boeing 737 Max ‘Gamechanger’ aircraft, delivered from Spring 2019 onwards, will have the new Zodiac seats announced on Wednesday, with a roomier 31 inch seat pitch, and due to the new sculpted seat back, also provide additional knee and shin room at the same pitch.

“Since 2004, Ryanair seats have not included seat back pockets, allowing us to maintain our industry-leading 25 minute turnaround, and reduce cleaning costs – which are passed on to customers through lower fares.

“Adding seat pockets to our seats is not something we are asked for by our customers.”

The airline also considered removing armrests when it reduced the size of its in-flight magazine back in 2012, but “decided against it”.

Airlines

Air India to Launch aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru

Air India, one of India’s leading global airlines, is set to establish a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.

This institute will offer a comprehensive Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will follow an integrated 2+2 year structure, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training.

This initiative is part of Air India’s broader goal of creating a robust aviation ecosystem in India. With plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its operations, the airline aims to build a skilled workforce of maintenance engineers, making the organization self-reliant while supporting its ambitious transformation journey.

This country tops visa rejections in the popular Schengen countries

To bring this vision to life, air india has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Together, they will develop a state-of-the-art facility spanning 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City.

This purpose-built campus will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified trainers to deliver world-class education and training. The institute is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be located close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, also set to open in Bengaluru by early 2026. The AME program will begin with two years of academic coursework, followed by two years of practical training at the MRO, ensuring students receive hands-on experience adhering to industry standards.

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

In the meantime, Air India has introduced a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

This ensures continuity in its commitment to developing skilled aircraft maintenance engineers while the BMTO facility is under construction. The program also allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their career and academic opportunities.

With this initiative, air india plane aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance and engineering, air india new planes contributing to the development of India’s aviation sector and creating specialized career paths for aspiring engineers.