Smart sensors to make finding a seat easier at the LNER's Azuma fleet
posted on 6th Feb 2026 07:34
Following a successful trial, LNER is installing more than 36,000 “SeatSense” sensors. The small devices will be fitted above all seats and wheelchair spaces and will detect and show instantly whether they are available or occupied, providing real-time updates. This marks a significant shift from previous systems that relied almost entirely on reservation data.
LNER has partnered with the Swedish company Sensative. The sensors use radio-wave technology – a first for the railway industry - with the results of the trial revealing more than 98 % accuracy. The sensors are cable-free and are powered by a single energy-efficient cell battery.
A further onboard enhancement designed to make journeys simpler for customers is the removal of the “May be reserved later” messaging on the Azuma trains. Seats and wheelchair spaces will now show either green for “Available”, red for “Reserved”, or amber for when the seat is currently available but reserved later in the journey, helping customers feel more confident when travelling with LNER.