News

Future flying offers window on the world

Planes of the future will deliver a travel experience like no other as passengers view the world through a transparent cabin.

The Airbus 2050 cabin concept unveiled recently centres on a bionic “bird bone” structure with an “intelligent” cabin wall membrane that controls air temperature and provides panoramic views for passengers sitting in seats that fit their body shapes.

In the concept cabin, passengers might be able to enjoy a game of virtual golf, read a bedtime story to their children back home or take part in interactive conferences, while the cabin "identifies and responds" to travellers' needs.

Three personalised zones could replace the traditional cabin classes:

• "Vitalising zone" where passengers relax, with vitamin and antioxidant-enriched air, mood lighting, aromatherapy and acupressure treatment
• "Interactive zone" with virtual pop-up projections taking passengers to whichever social scene they want to be in, from holographic gaming to virtual changing rooms for active shoppers
• "Smart tech zone", tailored towards the more functional-oriented passenger with what Airbus describes as "a chameleon-style offering, to meet individual needs ranging from a simple to a complete luxury service, but all allowing you to continue life as if on the ground".

Airbus engineering executive vice-president Charles Champion said: "Our research shows that passengers of 2050 will expect a seamless travel experience while also caring for the environment.

"The concept cabin is designed with that in mind, and shows that the journey can be as much a voyage of discovery as the destination."

Last year, Airbus announced its concept plane, full of technology that reduces fuel burn, emissions, waste and noise.

• DialExpotel home
• Editor's pick
• News
• Business travel
• Hotel focus
• Work matters
• dial events

De Vere Harben House in Newport Pagnell. Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Rates from. £53

Call 0844 793 7300

Click here for more offers

The Bethnal Green Town Hall, which has stood in the heart of London's vibrant East End since Edwardian times, reopened its doors this year with the opening of Town Hall Apartments. Read more