If you’ve ever been subjected to a toddler kicking your seat or having to hear a baby nonstop crying, you’ll be pleased to know that “adults-only” airline sections could soon be a thing. One airline is set to launch an “Only Adult” zone, which, if it takes off, could be adopted by other airlines too.
Corendon Airlines, a Turkish-Dutch carrier, will launch an “Only Adult” zone on its Airbus A350-900 flights between Amsterdam and the Caribbean island of Curacao this November 3. The area will be positioned at the front of the plane, with 93 seats reserved for those 16-plus. The area will be separated from the rest of the plane with walls and curtains.
“This zone in the aircraft is intended for travellers travelling without children and for business travellers who want to work in a quiet environment,” reads a translated statement by the airline.
“At the same time, the introduction of the Only Adult zone also has a positive effect for parents with children. They don’t have to worry as much about possible reactions from fellow passengers if their child is a bit busier or cries.”
But just like extra legroom, the flight treat will cost an additional fee. It’ll be 45 euros, which is roughly AUD $75. If you want more legroom in the adults-only area, on an XL seat, it’ll be 100 euros total, which is AUD $167.
The adults-only section is the brainchild of Corendon’s founder Atilay Uslu, who also runs adults-only hotels in Curacao, Bodrum, Turkey, and Spain. Uslu says the new feature was designed to appeal to travellers for some extra peace of mind during their flight, as well as to parents who will be able to enjoy the flight without worrying if their child is making too much noise.
“On board our flights, we always strive to respond to the different needs of our customers,” says Uslu.
The adults-only area on airlines concept is already being explored in Asia. Low-cost, Singapore-based airline Scoot has Scoot-in-Silence cabins on its 787 flights, accessible to travellers over 12, which, in addition to being quiet, also allows for wider leg room and early disembarkation.
Air Asia X also has a Quiet Zone on its A330 long-haul flights available to passengers over 12, as does Malaysia Airlines in some of its coach class sections. On its jumbo jets, the airline has entirely banned infants in first class.
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