Standby flights gain a whole new meaning?
I had a laugh reading this blog earlier about an alleged proposal to introduce standing-room only tickets for flights on the new A380X superjumbo aircraft. People paying to stand (although probably making use of the on-board casino, shops, ball-pool and gym) would be harnessed or attached to the wall for take-off and landing only!
Guardian Blog Will it fly?
Despite inevitable comparison of this concept to the existing situation on most commuter trains and tube trains in London, the idea actually makes sense for flights of less than, maybe, 6 hours. If there is ever sufficient demand to go to the Costa del Sol (God help us if there ever is), then I can see it working. But cross-Atlantic no.
Personally, I favour the retro-fitting of long-haul aircraft with sleeping modules, like the pod-hotels of Tokyo. As a married man, I can even support the idea of a double pod! Inside each pod would be a full length bed, an entertainment centre and variable lights, with drinks served to the access point/curtain. Not only would I sleep better but it’d be fun!
Only one problem with the concept however… take-off and landing might have to involve tranquilisers or some form of belting-in. And I think it might take more than 90 seconds to evacuate the plane! I, for one, would take around 10 mins to work out which way was up in my pod! And the effects on demand are uncertain- people might take flights for pleasure since they slept so well last time and ticket prices would probably be lower. But of all the ways to save the environment while still offering fun, this has got to be it!