WO2025184692A1

WO2025184692A1 - Aircraft seating arrangements

Info

Publication number: WO2025184692A1
Application number: PCT/AU2025/050191
Authority: WO
Inventors: Edson Alexandrino
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2024-03-05
Filing date: 2025-03-04
Publication date: 2025-09-12
Anticipated expiration: 2026-09-05
Also published as: WO2025184692A8

Abstract

An aircraft seating arrangement is disclosed, comprising rows of forward-facing seats arranged side by side. Each seat includes a backrest facing directly forward and a side console defining a rear footwell. The side consoles of adjacent rows are positioned on opposite sides, allowing passengers to place their legs to one side within their respective footwell. This arrangement eliminates the need for passengers to place their feet beneath the seat in front, reducing encroachment on legroom when reclining. The forward-facing design retains compatibility with existing aircraft seat structures, simplifying integration for seat manufacturers and airlines. The seating configuration enhances passenger comfort without requiring complex structural modifications, making it particularly suitable for premium recliner seats in economy and premium economy class.

Description

Aircraft Seating Arrangements

Field of the Invention

[0001 ] This invention relates to aircraft seating arrangements. More particularly, it relates to a forward-facing premium recliner aircraft seating configuration that incorporates side consoles defining footwells to improve passenger comfort while maintaining compatibility with conventional seat structures.

Background of the Invention

[0002] Passenger seating arrangements in commercial aircraft are typically designed to maximise seating capacity while maintaining acceptable levels of comfort and safety. A conventional premium recliner seating arrangement, as illustrated in Figure 1 , comprises rows of forward-facing seats, with each row positioned directly behind the preceding row. In such configurations, passengers are expected to place their feet underneath the seat in front of them.

[0003] This conventional arrangement presents several challenges, particularly in relation to passenger comfort and available legroom. When a passenger reclines their seat, the backrest encroaches upon the space of the passenger seated behind, often leading to discomfort and restricted movement. Additionally, the positioning of foot space beneath the seat in front results in competition for legroom, as passengers must share this space with structural supports, seat electronics, or in flight entertainment hardware. This issue is further exacerbated when floor-mounted components such as life vests, power boxes, or support rails occupy part of the available space.

[0004] Furthermore, the presence of under-seat structures can restrict the ability of passengers to adopt a relaxed posture, particularly for taller individuals or those requiring additional space. This issue is especially pronounced on long-haul flights, where extended periods of restricted movement can contribute to fatigue and discomfort. While some premium seating arrangements, such as angled or staggered layouts, attempt to mitigate these problems, such designs often require significant modifications to aircraft interiors, increasing development costs and complexity for seat manufacturers and airlines.

[0005] Another drawback of conventional arrangements is the impact of reclining seats on the passenger experience. Since seatbacks typically recline into the space of the passenger seated behind, this often leads to disputes over personal space, particularly in high-density seating environments.

[0006] Despite these issues, forward-facing premium recliner seating remains the industry standard due to its compatibility with existing aircraft seat structures and certification requirements. While angled seating can improve comfort, these layouts introduce challenges in terms of weight distribution, installation complexity, and manufacturing costs. Consequently, there remains a need for an improved aircraft seating arrangement that enhances passenger comfort without requiring significant structural modifications or departing from established industry norms.

[0007] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Disclosure

[0008] The present disclosure provides an aircraft seating arrangement that enhances passenger comfort while maintaining a conventional forward-facing seat orientation. The aircraft seating comprises rows of seats arranged side by side, with each seat having a backrest facing directly forward, i.e., oriented perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis along the fuselage. Each seat includes a side console that defines a rear footwell, wherein the side consoles of adjacent rows are positioned on opposite sides relative to each other. This configuration allows passengers seated facing forward to position their legs to one side within their respective footwell in front, reducing the need to place their feet beneath the seat ahead and improving overall legroom and comfort.

[0009] By incorporating side consoles that define dedicated footwells, the disclosed seating arrangement provides an alternative location for passengers to place their feet in addition to beneath the seat in front, thereby reducing competition for legroom and enhancing overall comfort. The arrangement also mitigates the impact of reclining seats on rear passengers, as the dedicated footwell ensures that leg space remains unobstructed when the seatback is reclined.

[0010] A key advantage of the disclosed seating arrangement is that it retains a forward-facing seat orientation, making it compatible with existing aircraft seating structures. Unlike angled or staggered seating layouts, which require significant structural modifications and introduce complexity in certification, the present design can be implemented using conventional seat mounting systems. This allows seat manufacturers and airlines to enhance passenger comfort without incurring excessive development costs or installation challenges.

[001 1 ] Additionally, by positioning footwells within the side consoles rather than under the seat in front, the arrangement provides a more natural leg position for passengers, reducing fatigue on long-haul flights. One embodiment of the design with a fixed back shell design also ensures that seat recline does not encroach into the personal space of the passenger seated behind, preserving a more consistent and comfortable seating environment.

[0012] The disclosed arrangement optimises space efficiency while maintaining the benefits of standard forward-facing seating. It enables premium economy and recliner seat configurations to be adapted to existing aircraft layouts, providing airlines with a practical solution for enhancing passenger experience while maintaining cost-effective implementation. [0013] In embodiments, the backrests may be configured to recline no more than 35 degrees, thereby limiting encroachment into the space of rear passengers while maintaining a comfortable seating position. This configuration also enables higher packing densities by allowing reduced seat pitch without significantly compromising passenger comfort.

[0014] Preferably, each seat comprises a fixed seat shroud, and the backrest transitions within the seat shroud to a reclined position. In such embodiments, the backrest may move downward within the seat shroud while the seat pan moves forward when transitioning to a reclined position. In further embodiments, the seat pan may also pivot upward when the backrest transitions to a reclined position, providing additional comfort.

[0015] In embodiments, an end seat in each row may include a conventional armrest, and alternate rows of seats across an aisle may be arranged such that they alternately have conventional armrests and side consoles positioned between them. [0016] Each footwell may be open to the floor, thereby allowing luggage to be stowed within the footwell during taxi, takeoff, and landing. In embodiments, each footwell may be defined by a top, sidewalls, and a front portion of its respective console.

[0017] The top of each console may extend forward beyond the front wall of the console, preferably defining a planar armrest surface that extends beyond the footwell. In some embodiments, the console may further comprise a backstop panel raised from the armrest surface to prevent interference from passengers seated behind.

[0018] Each seat may comprise a footrest that is pivotable from a stowed position to an extended position. In embodiments, the footrest may include a deployable side pad positioned to one side of the footrest and aligned with the footwell in front. The deployable side pad may be extendable into the footwell to provide additional leg support, preferably extending up to or beneath the passenger's ankles. [0019] In some embodiments, each backrest may comprise a lower portion adjacent to its respective console and an upper portion extending sideways over the console, with the upper portion supporting an in-flight entertainment screen. Preferably, the sideways-extending configuration of the upper portion ensures that the in-flight entertainment screen is centrally positioned in front of the passenger.

[0020] Each seat may be mounted on a frame that raises the seat above the aircraft floor, providing an open space beneath the seat adjacent to the footwell. In embodiments, this space may provide additional foot clearance when the passenger is in an upright position and may also facilitate the storage of small personal items. [0021 ] Preferably, the seats may be configured to recline mechanically without electronic actuator assistance, allowing for a simplified, lightweight, and maintenance-friendly reclining mechanism.

[0022] The disclosed arrangement may be particularly suitable for premium recliner seating configurations in premium economy and regional business and first classes, providing improved passenger comfort while maintaining compatibility with existing aircraft seating structures.

[0023] In embodiments, a method of seating a passenger in an aircraft may include assigning the passenger to a seat within a row arranged side by side, each seat having a backrest facing directly forward. The method may further include allowing the passenger to position their legs to one side within a footwell defined by a side console of a seat in front, wherein the side consoles of adjacent rows are positioned on opposite sides relative to each other, and providing an armrest surface on the side console for the passenger to rest at least one arm.

[0024] Preferably, the method may further include deploying a footrest pivotally mounted to the seat from a stowed position to an extended position to provide leg support. In embodiments, the method may further include extending a deployable portion of the footrest into the footwell in front to provide additional leg support. [0025] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [0027] Figure 1 shows a prior art seating arrangement typical of premium recliner class, wherein passengers in forward-facing seats are expected to place their feet underneath the seat in front when reclining.

[0028] Figure 2 shows an aircraft seating arrangement comprising rows of seats, each row including two seats adjacent to an aisle, with other configurations ranging from one to four seats per row being possible depending on the aircraft body and seating class.

[0029] Figure 3 shows an aircraft seating arrangement comprising two sets of seating positioned on either side of a central aisle, each set including rows of two seats suitable for a narrow-bodied aircraft such as a Boeing 737 or Airbus A320.

[0030] Figure 4 shows an aircraft seat in an upright position.

[0031 ] Figure 5 shows the aircraft seat of Figure 4 in a reclined position.

[0032] Figure 6 shows an alternative seating arrangement wherein each seat comprises a fixed seat shroud , with the backrest transitioning within the fixed seat shroud to a reclined position.

[0033] Figure 7 shows three rows of seating, illustrating how side consoles are positioned on alternating sides in adjacent rows, enabling passengers to place their legs to one side within their respective footwell.

[0034] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the seating arrangement in an embodiment wherein each backrest comprises a lower portion adjacent to the seat's console and an upper portion extending sideways over the console, with the upper portion supporting an in-flight entertainment screen to maintain a central viewing position for the passenger.

[0035] Figure 9 shows a rear view of the seating arrangement of Figure 8.

Description of Embodiments

[0036] Figure 2 shows aircraft seating 100 comprising rows 101 of seats 102. Each row 101 includes two seats 102 adjacent to an aisle 103, although other configurations ranging from one to four seats 102 per row 101 are possible, depending on the aircraft body and seating class. Figure 2 also illustrates aisle seats 102A and window seats 102B.

[0037] Figure 3 depicts an aircraft seating arrangement comprising two sets of seating 100 positioned on either side of a central aisle 103, each set including rows of two seats 102 having backrests facing directly forward, i.e., oriented perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis 124 along the fuselage. This configuration is suitable for a narrow-bodied aircraft such as a Boeing 737 or Airbus A320.

[0038] Seats 102 in each row 101 are arranged side by side along the longitudinal axis 124 in a conventional manner, with their backrests facing directly forward, meaning they are perpendicularly oriented to the longitudinal axis 124.

[0039] With reference to Figure 7, which shows three rows 101 of two adjacent seats 102 in the seating 1 00, each seat 102 includes a side console 104 adjacent to its seat pan 105.

[0040] When seated on the seat pan 105, a passenger can rest at least one arm on an armrest surface 106 defined by the seat's 102 side console 104. If a passenger is positioned between a pair of consoles 104 (such as the middle passenger shown in Figure 7), they can rest both arms on the respective consoles 104. However, if a passenger is seated adjacent to only one console 104 (such as the rear passenger shown in Figure 7), they can rest their other arm on a conventional armrest 107 at the end of each row 1 01 . Figure 3 shows an arrangement wherein alternate rows of seats 102 across an aisle 103 from each other have conventional armrests 107 and side consoles 104 positioned between them.

[0041 ] Each console 104 defines a rear footwell 108, generally represented by the shaded void space indicated in Figures 4 and 5.

[0042] The side consoles 104 of adjacent rows 101 are positioned on opposite sides relative to each other, ensuring that each passenger has a dedicated footwell 108 to one side of their seat 102. This arrangement creates an alternative to passengers placing their feet beneath the seat 102 in front, thereby improving legroom, reducing encroachment from reclining seats, and creating an additional option for foot placement. As such, Figure 7 shows how passengers seated facing directly forward can place their legs to one side within their respective footwell 108, allowing for a more natural and comfortable leg position while maintaining efficient use of cabin space.

[0043] With reference to Figure 7, it can be seen that the consoles 104 of the first row 101 are positioned to the left of each seat 102, while the consoles 104 of the second row 101 are positioned to the right. In the third row 101 , the consoles 104 are again positioned to the left, continuing the alternating pattern.

[0044] The seats 102 are designed not to recline fully into a flatbed. According to the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, seat backrests 1 10 recline no more than 35 degrees. This arrangement allows the seats 102 to be spaced at a pitch of 38 inches or less, as shown in Figure 7 in embodiments.

[0045] In some embodiments, the bottom of the backrest 1 10 is positioned at a distance of less than 52 inches from the front of the console 104. This configuration optimises cabin space while maintaining passenger comfort and facilitating seat recline within a limited pitch. The reduced distance ensures that passengers maintain sufficient support from the backrest 1 10 while allowing for an efficient layout that meets the constraints of commercial aircraft interiors.

[0046] Figure 6 shows an alternative arrangement wherein each seat comprises a fixed seat shroud 109. According to this arrangement, the seat backrests 1 10 transition within the fixed shroud 109 to a reclined position. Specifically, Figure 6 shows the backrests 1 10 sliding down into the shroud 109, optionally with a headrest 1 1 1 extending upward, while the seat pan 105 extends forward and preferably upward, as shown.

[0047] Ideally, the seats in the embodiments of Figures 4 to 6 recline purely mechanically without electronic actuator assistance.

[0048] Figures 8 and 9 show an arrangement where the footwell 108 is open to the floor, allowing for luggage stowage during taxi, takeoff, and landing. Figures 8 and 9 further illustrate how the seats 102 are raised on conventional aluminium leg frames, extending the shaded void under each seat between the footwells 108, thereby providing additional foot space when seated upright with legs extended forward.

[0049] Figures 8 and 9 also show the preferred console arrangement, which is rearwardly open and open to the floor. In this regard, each footwell 108 may be defined by side walls 1 13, a top, and a front of its console 104. Figure 6 illustrates how a top portion 1 14 extends beyond a front wall 1 1 5 of the console, thereby extending the armrest surface 104 forward beyond the footwell 1 08.

[0050] With reference to Figure 8, the console 104 may further define a backstop panel 1 1 6 raised from the armrest surface 106 to prevent passengers behind from placing their feet through the space above the console 104.

[0051 ] In some embodiments, the extended front shelf 1 14 of the console 104 is configured to be movable or removable, allowing passengers to adjust its position based on personal preference or operational requirements. A movable shelf 1 14 may be mounted on a sliding track or hinge mechanism, enabling it to be extended for additional support or retracted when not in use. I n other embodiments, the shelf 1 14 may be detachable, allowing airline operators to remove or replace it depending on the seating configuration or class of service.

[0052] Figures 4 and 5 show an embodiment wherein each seat defines a footrest 1 17. Figure 4 shows the footrest 1 17 in a stowed configuration where it is pivoted downward, while Figure 5 shows it in an extended configuration where it is pivoted forward, thereby supporting the passenger's legs by their calves. The footrest may comprise a pivot frame 1 18 that pivots on a hinge 1 19 and supports a main cushion panel 1 19. I n some embodiments, the footrest 1 17 may further include a deployable side pad 120 positioned to one side of the main cushion panel 1 19. The deployable side pad 120 can extend forward into the footwell 108, as shown in Figure 5, thereby supporting the legs up to or even under the ankles.

[0053] In some embodiments, the footwell 108 is provided with an integrated footrest 1 17, allowing passengers to place their feet comfortably while in a seated position. The footrest 1 17 may be a fixed platform positioned within the footwell 108 or a deployable component that extends outward to provide additional leg support. A fixed footrest 1 17 ensures that passengers have a stable surface to rest their feet, particularly when in an upright seating position. Alternatively, a deployable footrest 1 17 may pivot or slide into position, enabling passengers to adjust their leg support based on personal comfort preferences. The integration of a footrest 1 17 within the footwell 108 enhances ergonomics and helps alleviate fatigue during long-haul flights.

[0054] Figure 9 shows an embodiment wherein each backrest 1 10 defines a lower portion 121 adjacent to its console 104 and an upper portion 122 extending sideways over the console 104. Furthermore, the upper portion 122 supports an in -flight entertainment screen 1 23. This sideways-extending configuration of the upper portion 122 centres the screen 123 in front of the passenger. [0055] In some embodiments, a meal tray 125 is stowed within the front portion of the console 104 and can be deployed from the top surface 1 14 of the console 104 when needed. The tray 125 may be mounted on a sliding mechanism or hinge, allowing it to be extended for use during meal service and retracted for storage when not in use. This configuration eliminates the need for seatback-mounted trays, reducing interference with passenger movement and enabling a cleaner, more spacious seatback design. Additionally, positioning the meal tray 125 within the console 104 provides enhanced stability, as it is supported by the console structure rather than relying on a fold-down mechanism attached to the backrest 1 10 of the seat 102 in front.

[0056] In use, a passenger boards the aircraft and proceeds to their assigned seat 102 within the aircraft seating 100. Upon reaching their row 101 , the passenger may stow any carry-on luggage beneath the seat in front of them or within an overhead compartment. If permitted, the passenger may place small personal items within the rear footwell 108 beneath the side console 104, ensuring that the footwell 108 remains clear for leg placement.

[0057] Once seated on the seat pan 105, the passenger may position their legs comfortably within the designated footwell 108, angled slightly to one side. If the passenger is seated between a pair of side consoles 104, as shown in Figure 7, they may rest both arms on the respective armrest surfaces 106. Alternatively, if seated adjacent to only one side console 104, the passenger may rest their other arm on the conventional armrest 107 provided at the aisle or window side.

[0058] During taxi, takeoff, and landing, the passenger must remain seated upright with their seatbelt fastened. During flight, if the seat 102 is equipped with a reclining backrest 1 10, the passenger may adjust the recline angle to a comfortable position within the permitted range, such as the 35-degree maximum shown in Figures 4 and 5. If the seat 102 includes a fixed seat shroud 109, as depicted in Figure 6, reclining is achieved by a coordinated downward sliding motion of the backrest 1 10 within the shroud 109, optionally extending the headrest 1 1 1 upward and shifting the seat pan 105 forward and slightly upward for additional support.

[0059] If desired, the passenger may deploy the footrest 1 17 to provide additional support for their lower legs. As illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the footrest 1 17 may be pivoted forward from its stowed position to an extended position, where it supports the passenger's calves. In embodiments having the deployable side pad 120, the passenger may further extend the pad 120 into the footwell 108 to provide additional support for their legs, including the ankles.

[0060] During the flight, the passenger may access the in-flight entertainment screen 123 mounted on the upper portion 122 of the backrest 1 10 in front of them, as shown in Figure 9. Due to the sideways-extending configuration of the upper portion 122, the screen 123 remains centred in front of the passenger, ensuring an optimal viewing angle.

[0061 ] Upon approach and descent, the flight crew instructs passengers to return their seats 102 to the upright position and stow any deployed footrests 1 17. Any personal belongings placed within the footwell 108 must be secured or relocated to an approved stowage area. The passenger may then fasten their seatbelt and prepare for landing.

[0062] Once the aircraft has reached the gate and passengers are permitted to disembark, the passenger may retrieve any stored items from beneath the seat 102 in front or within the footwell 108, ensuring that no belongings are left behind. The passenger then exits their seat row 101 , using the aisle 103 to proceed toward the aircraft exit.

[0063] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practise the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed as obviously many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.

Claims

1 . Aircraft seating comprising rows of seats arranged side by side and having backrests facing directly forward wherein each seat includes a side console that defines a rear footwell and wherein the side consoles of adjacent rows are positioned on opposite sides relative to each other, such that, in use, passengers in a seated position facing forward can place their legs to one side within their respective footwell in front.

2. The aircraft seating of claim 1 , wherein the backrests are configured to recline no more than 35 degrees.

3. The aircraft seating of claim 2, wherein each seat comprises a fixed seat shroud, and its backrest transitions within the seat shroud to a reclined position.

4. The aircraft seating of claim 3, wherein the backrest moves down within the fixed seat shroud whilst its seat pan moves forward when the backrest transitions to a reclined position.

5. The aircraft seating of claim 4, wherein the seat pan further pivots upward when the backrest transitions to a reclined position.

6. The aircraft seating of claim 1 , wherein an end seat in each row includes a conventional armrest.

7. The aircraft seating of claim 6, wherein alternate rows of seats across an aisle from each other have conventional armrests and side consoles positioned alternately between them.

8. The aircraft seating of claim 1 , wherein each footwell is open to the floor, thereby allowing floor luggage to be stowed within the footwell.

9. The aircraft seating of claim 8, wherein each footwell is defined by a top, sidewalls, and a front of its console.

10. The aircraft seating of claim 1 , wherein the top of each console extends forward beyond the front wall of the console, defining a planar armrest surface that extends in front beyond the footwell.

1 1 . The aircraft seating of claim 10, wherein each console further comprises a backstop panel raised from the armrest surface to prevent interference from passengers seated behind.

12. The aircraft seating of claim 1 , wherein each seat comprises a footrest pivotable from a stowed position to an extended position.

13. The aircraft seating of claim 12, wherein the footrest includes a deployable side pad positioned to one side of the footrest and aligned with a footwell in front, the deployable side pad being extendable into the footwell in front.

14. The aircraft seating of claim 1 , wherein each backrest comprises a lower portion adjacent its console and an upper portion extending sideways over its console, the upper portion supporting an in-flight entertainment screen.

15. The aircraft seating of claim 1 , wherein the seat is mounted on a frame that raises the seat above the aircraft floor, providing an open space beneath the seat adjacent the footwell.

16. The aircraft seating of claim 1 , wherein the seat is configured to recline mechanically without electronic actuator assistance.

17. An aircraft seating of claim 10, wherein the extended front shelf is at least one of movable and removable.

18. The seating arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , where the foot well comprises a footrest for passengers to place their feet, whilst in a seated position.

19. An aircraft seating of claim 10, where a meal tray is stowed in front of the console and deployed from the top of the console.

20. A method of seating a passenger in an aircraft, the method comprising: assigning the passenger to a seat within a row of seats arranged side by side, each seat having a backrest facing directly forward; allowing the passenger to position their legs to one side within a footwell defined by a side console of a seat in front, wherein side consoles of adjacent rows are positioned on opposite sides relative to each other; and providing an armrest surface on the side console for the passenger to rest at least one arm.

21 . The method of claim 20, further comprising: deploying a footrest pivotally mounted to the seat from a stowed position to an extended position to provide leg support.

22. The method of claim 20, further comprising: extending a deployable side pad positioned to one side of the footrest into the footwell in front to provide additional leg support.