Using Dynamic Seat Allocation to Improve Aircraft Comfort

Abstract

Inspired on an ergonomic study on the in- and egress of persons with reduced mobility in aircraft I developed an algorithm to improve the comfort of individual passengers by allocating them specific seats. The algorithm uses information which is already at the disposal of airlines to specify certain groups of passengers. Based on their group, the algorithm then allocates them to seats in different zones in an aircraft cabin. Passengers are likely to be less disturbed by others when they are seated amongst peers. This can be used to improve the comfort of different types of passengers without having a negative effect on the cost per passenger per mile. Airlines can then cater both services and tangible products to very different groups of customers within the same aircraft. The algorithm is designed to be adapted to an airlines business model or preferred segment in the market. Since graduation in the direction Integrated Product Development also involves engineering tangible products, an integrated check in kiosk was designed as well. By integrating luggage drop-off, obtaining boarding documents and the cue for customs, there is the possibility to reduce per-flight waiting time. Final production was done with the assistance of an experienced programmer. A preview of the model can be seen on www.timkock.com/lijmbach.