In a bid to make air travel more accessible, Delta has developed a new convertible seat that allows individuals to remain in their own wheelchairs while flights. The new prototype was unveiled last week at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Germany. When it’s not occupied by a wheelchair user, the device functions as a standard airplane seat. Crew members are then able to fold it up and make room for a wheelchair, which can be docked securely in place. The tray table is adjustable, so passengers seated at different heights are able to use it. The headrest also remains in place for comfort. From start to finish, the conversion process takes roughly 90 seconds. If airline decide to install the prototype, it could debut within 18 months. It’s designed to be incorporated into existing seating systems, without requiring any major structural changes. The team behind the prototype hopes to eventually see the convertible chairs installed on all commercial planes.
