Airbus transparent plane

[Wizzo]

This futuristic concept for travel in 40 years time has been unveiled in London by Airbus.

Passengers will be able to see everything to the sides and in front of them.Airbus has unveiled the futuristic design of a transparent plane that will come around 2050 for panoramic views. The plane is designed in such a way that the flyers would be able to see through the cabin and the roof. With this futuristic travel option, the business class and economy class will be replaced with custom-made sectors that offer space for relaxation, interaction and working.

The see-through aircraft cabin will come with various options that will allow the rider enjoy panoramic views outside the aircraft. The comfortable seats could be made to take up any size and shape for each passenger. If we talk about entertainment, the boring small TV screen will be replaced by a larger Interactive zone together with virtual holographic golf courses or virtual clothes shopping.

Guaranteed to terrify those who already have a fear of flying.

[John S]

I'm sure that second illustration is straight out of the Eagle comic, anyone remember Dan Dare and his eggheaded rival. 

[Jericoke]

Makes sense from an ecological perspective... there's a finite amount of aluminum (aluminium) in the world.   They're going to have to make planes from something else eventually, and there's plenty of sand out there...

[Ian]

Wow, what a brilliant idea, a plane with transparent sides, I've yet to be on a plane with camera's outside, I love take off and landing, the only good thing about the rest is the drinks trolley.

[Scott]

Two words...too bright! 

Not many of us go on a plane to socialize, so I can't imagine the virtual worlds that you have to share becoming much of an attraction.  And besides, most airlines do their best to keep people in their seats (for both safety and logistical reasons), so to have everyone wandering around like it's a mall would be maddening.

What an old sourpuss I've become, eh?   

[David]

Great idea, looks fantastic, but Scott make a good point about it being too bright. I fly back and forward from England regular and I always have to wear sunglasses on daytime flights. If not my head would be pounding.

As for fear of flying, I know a couple of people I share flights with that would almost beg you to take a window seat so they can't see out! Especially my MD, he quells his fear with vodka. Suits me, I love looking out.