In Brief | July 2009

What’s next for long-haul premium economy passengers? Try lie-flat seats in a bunk-bed layout. Airbus is reportedly considering it, but even if the idea gets the green light, it may take a few years to see the light of day.

Ryanair, Europe’s largest low-fare airline, plans to cut costs even more by closing all of its airport check-in desks by the end of the year—all passengers will be required to check in online instead. At airports, the carrier will staff only a bag drop for customers.