‘Bed seats’ could see Shannon-US flights beset with mile-high hopefuls

BOREDOM and terror were said to be the only two emotions associated with flying, but it now looks like hot passion could be added to the list.

Being a “lover” of air travel could soon take on a whole new meaning if people take full advantage of the horizontal frills being offered by one company.

“Fancy a bumpy landing?” could become the marketing catchline for Continental Airlines soon-to-be-introduced service between Shannon and Newark, New Jersey.

Full-sized beds are being fitted to the Continental 757s using Shannon, presenting the opportunity to the adventurous to join the mile-high club.

Although there will be no doubles, couples can book singles which will allow them lie just six inches apart.

And with a bit of imagination a couple could manoeuvre into one of the beds for close encounters in the skies.

Yvonne Muldoon, sales manager for Continental Airlines in Ireland, said: “We can’t ban cuddling or certain types of affection.”

However she would not be drawn on more full-on under the blanket encounters.

But, any nooky in the sky won’t come cheap.

A return single bed ticket from Shannon to Newark New Jersey will cost as much as €2,600.

But there will be special offers for €1,800 at certain times when business is, well, flaccid.

Each bed on the Continental 757s will be 6ft 4in in length and will be fully flat at 180 degrees, on the tarmac that is.

At the launch of the new service at the Foynes Flying Boat Museum last night, one airline source when asked about amorous passengers joining the mile-high club said: “I suppose if there is a means there’s a way.”

Continental fly daily from Shannon to Newark and from May flights will increase to 11 per week.