FAA proposes installation of safer aircraft seats

Airline Industry Information, Oct 7, 2002

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2002 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

The US Federal Aviation Administration has proposed that airlines install new seats in order to improve passenger safety.

The seats would reportedly have better seat belts, provide better head protection and be more firmly fixed to the aircraft. According to the FAA, they would prevent around 114 deaths and 133 serious injuries over a 20-year period.

If the proposed rule is implemented, airlines will have 14 years to install the new seats at an estimated cost of USD519m. Public comments on the proposal will be accepted by the FAA between now and 3 December 2002.

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