The aircraft manufacturer has teamed up with Zodiac Aerospace to develop lower-deck passenger sleeping facilities by 2020
NIghts on a long-haul area could reach a completely new level as Airbus aims to build comfortable sleeping facilities downstairs.
The European plane manufacturer has entered into a partnership with Zodiac Aerospace to develop lower-deck modules that would allow passengers to spend their flight in comfortable berths.
The manufacturer plans to place the modules onto their Airbus A330 wide-body aircrafts by 2020.
Geoff Pinner, head of Airbus Cabin & Cargo Programme said: “This approach to commercial air travel is a step change towards passenger comfort. We have already received very positive feedback from several airlines on our first mock-ups. We are pleased to partner with Zodiac Aerospace on this project which will introduce a new passenger experience and add value for airlines.”
Christophe Bernardini, chief executive officer of Zodiac Aerospace Cabin Branch said: “We are delighted to work with Airbus on this new and innovative project, which reaffirms our expertise in lower-deck solutions. An improved passenger experience is today a key element of differentiation for airlines.”
According to Bloomberg, the pods should be easily removable to allow larger space for cargo if needed.
.@Airbus and @ZodiacAerospace enter into a partnership for new lower-deck sleeping facilities ? https://t.co/yteDQWiGbM pic.twitter.com/ZViVgB3yFs
— Safran (@SAFRAN) April 10, 2018
“The innovation builds on both Airbus’ and Zodiac Aerospace’s experience in producing and integrating lower-deck crew-rest facilities,” Airbus added in a statement.
The idea of placing sleeping modules to the lower-deck corresponds with airliners’ decision to offer more enjoyable times for passengers on long-haul flights.
Air New Zealand have recently unveiled their SkyCouch, a seating option that turns a row of seats into a small bed for people to sleep on.
Qantas Airways are reportedly considering using the cargo hold to place large pods for travellers to sleep in or exercise.
