Airbus to build nap zones and kids’ play areas in the cargo hold of planes
The modules can be easily swapped with regular cargo containers during a typical turnaround at an airport
SLEEPLESS nights on long-haul flights could soon be a thing of the past.
Because Airbus is planning on creating napping zones in the cargo hold of their planes.
The aeroplane designer has teamed up with Zodiac Aerospace to design the lie-flat bed berths that will fill the lower area of the plane.
The modules, which would fit inside the aircraft’s cargo compartments, can be easily swapped with regular cargo containers during a typical turnaround at an airport.
The aircraft’s cargo floor and cargo loading system won’t be affected, as the passenger module will sit directly on it.
As well as napping modules with beds, the pods can have a whole other range of uses.
They include a lounge with seating area and TVs, a conference room, a children’s play area and a medical centre.
The modules will be available on Airbus A330 widebody aircrafts initially, from 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.”
Just last month, Qantas announced plans to put its own passengers in the hold.
The Australian airline's plans, named “Project Sunrise,” would allow travellers to exercise and rest on any super long-haul flights from Australia to London.
Just days before, The Sun sent a reporter to try out the airline's new direct flights from London to Perth – 17 hours from Australia in economy on the UK’s longest route.
Qantas’ new daily route from the UK to the west coast of Australia means British holidaymakers heading Down Under can now avoid the time-consuming hassle of a transfer in cities like Dubai, Singapore or Hong Kong.
But is shaving a couple of hours off your journey really worth taking on the all new endurance sport of extreme long-haul flying?