Giving new meaning to the term bird’s eye view, the aircraft of the future could feature a completely transparent cabin.
Unveiled by Airbus in London yesterday, the future of air travel could be vastly different to the way in which we take to the skies now. Planes could have “intelligent” cabin wall membranes, which mimic the flexibility and efficiency of bird bone. The walls would change according to the different lighting conditions, becoming see-through and controlling air temperature.
The crafts could also have seats that mould to passenger’s bodies, holographic pop-up games such as virtual golf, and in-flight entertainment powered by traveller’s body heat. The traditional economy, business and first class sections could be replaced with ‘relaxation’ or ‘work’ zones, alongside a cocktail bar for socialising with other passengers.
So just how far in the future is all this? According to Airbus, these see-through planes – which will give every passenger on board a window on the world – could be launched in 2050.
Charles Champion, Airbus engineering executive vice-president 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,” he added.
(Images: Airbus)
