Evolution of Airline Seats

  • 1914

    On the first scheduled commercial flight, a 23 minute trip from St. Petersburg to Tampa on a wooden seat in the hull of the two-seat seaplane flown by pilot Tony Jannus.

  • 1926

    The Ford Tri-Motor 4-At the first successful all-metal U.S. commercial plane, starts service carrying up to 12 passengers in wicker seats.

  • 1934

    American Airlines introduces a version of the Curtiss Condor with sleeper berths above the passenger seats.

  • 1946

    The Douglas DC-6 is the first plane with cabin pressurization and seat tray tables.

  • 1958

    Boeing introduces its 707 with folding armrests opaque plastic window shades and seats supported by two sets of legs, making it easier to stow carry-on items.

  • 2013

    The Tray Bien® concept is born out of necessity. This is the original sketch drawn while on a flight to Dallas after sitting next to a frequent bio breaker.

  • 2014

    The patented Tray Bien® portable work station and airline tray caddy is introduced, allowing airline passengers to keep items organized and secure.