New Zealand invention to combat 'economy class syndrome'

Te Horo grandmother Lee Gamet hopes her air-cycle invention will reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis in air travellers worldwide.

The air-cycle has two airtight, lung-shaped compartments joined together by a narrow tube. When inflated and stepped on by a seated passenger, the device allows air to flow from one compartment to another as the passenger "walks" on the robust plastic creation.

The air-cycle, expected to cost about $10 a unit, has already won the approval of the New Zealand Arthritis Foundation. Mrs Gamet, husband Bernie and business partner Hillary Hudson are now negotiating to supply the device to several firms, including Singapore Airlines, Qantas and Air New Zealand.

The trio is already supplying orders from all over New Zealand and word-of-mouth overseas has also seen interest from as far away as England, Canada and America.

- HOROWHENUA-KAPITI CHRONICLE (LEVIN)