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Passengers to get a 'window on the world' view on new Airbus
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Kayte Platts Tuesday 14 June 2011 |
A futuristic view through a see-through aircraft cabin becons passengers of the future as they will get a get a 'window on the world' as they fly through the sky.
For this plane with it's 'intelligent cabin' wall membrane and interactive games, may be everyday air transport in 2050.
The futuristic concept for travel in 40 years' time was yesterday unveiled in London by Airbus - and it may well have an impact for those of a nervous disposition when flying
Firstly, business and economy cabins are replaced by zones for relaxation in the front, work in the back, and a fully-stocked bar for socialising.
Passengers will be able to see everything to the sides and in front of them. So blindfolds might be an option when taking off and landing!
The aircraft's walls change according to light conditions. There are holographic pop-up gaming displays and in-flight entertainment powered by the heat of passengers' bodies.
Most of the basic technology such as moulding seats and 'head-up displays' already exist, but how Airbus plan to make the plant-based, transparent 'skin' of the plane remains a mystery.
The concept cabin would be a bionic structure that 'mimics' the efficiency of bird bone, claim Airbus. It would provide strength where needed, and also allows for an intelligent cabin wall membrane which controls air temperature and can become transparent to give passengers open, panoramic views.
Airbus believes that mid-century passengers might be able to enjoy a game of virtual golf or take part in interactive conferences, while the cabin 'identifies and responds' to travellers' needs.
The cabin of the future follows last year's unveiling of the Airbus concept plane, packed with technologies to reduce fuel burn, emissions, waste and noise.
In the cabin concept, the 'vitalising zone' helps passengers relax, with vitamin and antioxidant-enriched air, mood lighting, aromatherapy and acupressure treatments.
In the 'interactive zone' there are 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.
The 'smart tech zone' is tailored towards the more functional-orientated passenger with what Airbus describes as 'a chameleon-style offering.'
I for one will probably not be around to witness this amazing experience, but in these times of ever changing technology, I guess anything is possible.
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Pete Jackson 7 July 2011, 07:30AM | |
I am really not sure that I want to be able to see outside the aircraft. It is like they say in rock climbing "don't look down". | |
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Brian Silk 18 July 2011, 10:57AM | |
The trouble with all these innovations is that they rely upon us being able to fly and that relies upon there being enough fuel into the future. | |
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Zoe, Hartley 27 July 2011, 05:41PM | |
As a terrified flyer this would be my worst nightmare! I cannot even sit by the window so the thought of seeing outside the aircraft would be a definite no no for me. | |
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Denver, Surrey 8 August 2011, 02:54PM | |
great! my fear of flying and on-board insomnia look set for the future! I'm sure I'd not be the only one taking advantage of the booze and eyemasks. | |
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David Blackstone 9 September 2011, 10:38PM | |
I am not sure that I want this. It does not anything to my flight and just opens up masive opportunities for advertising and virtual reality. | |
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