Here’s a great way to increase an airline’s capacity by 40%…

How would you like to save more money on your flights but (most likely) be even more uncomfortable in the process? Care to give up your seat, but still get on the flight?

If this sounds like a good idea, then you’ll want to hear more about a Chinese budget airline’s plans.

Spring Airlines, “Asia’s most valuable budget carrier ” according to Mashable is looking for government approval for standing-only airplane cabins.

The article goes on to say that the seats are similar to a bar stool or “seats that you stand at on a rollercoaster”. You’re not actually standing like one does on the subway.

But could this work? Will the government approve such an idea? With all of the recent air disasters in Asia over the past year, does offering standing seats really sound like a good and safe option? I’m not an airline safety expert but it doesn’t sound so wise to me.

I could only imagine people booking these seats, oh wait there aren’t any… I could only imagine people booking these standing room areas that aren’t fit to stand for long periods of time. What do you do then? Imagine an 80-year-old passenger wanting to save some cash. They go for the lowest priced seat in the standing section but they just can not stand for the whole flight. What does the crew do?

We’re already being crammed into planes like sardines, flying more uncomfortably than ever. Those slim line seats are beyond awful, people are getting into fights over reclining seats, yet people these days are larger than ever. When does this airline seat-squeeze stop?

What do you think about the state of airline comfort these days?

Find out more about Spring Airline’s ideas to offer standing room on flights here.