Cargo Class Might Be the Future of Flying – Airbus Wants to Add Sleeping Pods to Luggage Hold
Sleeping on an airplane is difficult. If you are in the aisle seat, you have to worry about getting hit with the drink cart. If you’re in the window seat, you can lean against the window, but you’ll always get that kink in your neck. Just forget about getting comfortable in the middle seat, it is pretty much impossible.
Some airlines offer roomier seating, like Economy Plus for a high price. Then even fewer airlines offer planes with seats that can recline so far back, they are almost like beds. Not every airplane is designed with comfort in mind. However, Airbus might just change that. Would you ever sleep in the cargo hold on an airplane?
Airbus, a pioneer in the aerospace industry, has partnered with Zodiac Aerospace to develop and market a lower-deck module that has passenger sleeping pods. Could cargo class be the future of flying?
The company plans to replace the typical cargo storage hold for passengers luggage and instead create a sleeping and recreation area for passengers. If they allow pets, this might be ideal for anyone who wants to travel with their pet, as it is risky to let your animal fly in the cargo hold, though it is required for animals who cannot fit under the seats in the plane’s main cabin.
In a joint press release from Airbus and Zodiac Aerospace, the concept was explained more:
The modules, which would fit inside the aircraft’s cargo compartments, offer new opportunities for additional services to passengers, improving their experience while enabling airlines to differentiate and add value for their commercial operations. The new passenger modules will be easily interchangeable with regular cargo containers during a typical turnaround if required. Moreover, the aircraft’s cargo floor and cargo loading system will not be affected at all, as the passenger module will sit directly on it.
Airlines will be able to choose from a list of options by 2020. Would you like to try this?
H/T: Newsweek