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The U.K.-based Centre for Process Innovation has a vision for the future of flying, and it doesn’t include windows.
No windows, but a 360-degree view of the plane’s exterior?
It’s a neat trick, accomplished with flexible photovoltaic displays mounted on the aircraft’s interior walls, which display a panoramic view of the plane’s surroundings captured by cameras mounted on the aircraft exterior.
CPI claims multiple benefits from the windowless approach, including:
- A more relaxing, entertaining cabin environment
- Stronger fuselage
- Lighter fuselage
- Thinner fuselage
The artist’s renderings of the windowless plane concept are compelling. The effect is of flying through the air with nothing between you and clouds. Every seat becomes a window seat. Every flight is a thrill ride.
A fuselage with thinner walls could free up interior space for wider seats.
And of course lighter planes use less jet fuel, a significant component in airlines’ operating expenses.
In short, the new technology has the potential to make air travel cheaper, more comfortable, safer, more eco-friendly.
A windowless cabin with a great view: a welcome contradiction. But it’s years away from making an appearance at an airport near you.
According to the company: “We predict large area flexible displays will be commercialized in the next decade. Integration into aircraft will take substantially longer.”
Reader Reality Check
The greatest thing since sliced bread?
This article originally appeared on FrequentFlier.com.
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