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Airplane Innovations That Could Change The Way We Fly!

In a competitive global aviation market, airlines are doing their best to incorporate innovative ways to cater to the needs of a customer and save operating costs at the same time.

With the help of technology, they have been able to come up with airplane designs and amenities that will help them beat their rivals and take passenger experience (PAX) to a whole new level.

To give you a peek into the future, here are a few interesting, amazing and downright scary airplane innovations that can change the way we fly.

1.Standing Airplane Seats

In a press conference in 2012, famous American carrier, Ryanair’s CEO Mr. Michael O’Leary pointed out that seat belts are unnecessary and airplanes are actually just “a bus with wings”.

He also suggested that there should be standing areas inside an airplane, which would eventually cost just $1 to book it.

While the general public laughed off these ideas, airplane manufacturers ‘Airbus’ & Italy based company ‘Aviointeriors’ took this pretty seriously.

In the 2017 “Aircraft Interiors Expo” held in Germany, Aviointeriors introduced a prototype called the ‘Sky Rider 2.0’.

These are ‘saddle seats’ which will allow people to lean a bit and shift their weight slightly on the seat while basically standing.

The concept of standing seats have been disregarded by authorities over the years, however, the design and applicability of the Sky Rider 2.0 may force them to rethink their decision.

2.Doughnut Shaped Airplanes

These airplane designs by Airbus look like a spacecraft from Si-Fi movies!

A cross between a UFO and a glider, this design allows better utilisation of space than other aircrafts and hence allows it to carry more passengers.

The doughnut-like shape between the nose and wings of the airplane will seat various classes of passengers, with economy class in the outer ring & business class in the middle.

This design has been patented by the airplane manufacturer and if implemented, it will make the current airplane design redundant.

3.Stacked Airplane Seats

Cramped seating arrangements on economy flights could get significantly worse if Airbus’ latest design ever becomes a reality.

A patent filed by the airplane manufacturer envisions stacking passengers on top of one another.

The design, which Airbus claims will provide a high level of comfort for the passengers, involves two levels of seating arrangements in a standard aircraft cabin.

A similar tiered approach to air travel was conceived by a UK based company “Factorydesign” and claims to allow for 30 percent more passengers on a standard airplane.

4.Upright Sleep Support System

For most of us sleeping on an airplane is not very easy.

However, airplane manufacturers ‘Boeing’ have designed a device that looks like a backpack but unfolds to turn into a cuddler of sorts.

It is completely adjustable and is attached to the seat, allowing you to lean forward and sleep with your head supported by a cushion.

This is a great concept if implemented, however, issues over space inside the cabin and reusability have been raised by many.

5.Self Cleaning Seats

The microbes lurking in airplane seats could soon be a thing of the past!

Recaro Aircraft Seating GmbH, whose customers include Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd., says it’s developing a seat infused with a disinfectant that destroys almost every germ on contact within seconds.

These seats won’t just cleanse themselves but will also display each incoming passenger how well it has done the job.

According to the company, these seats should be available in the next 2 years.

6.Cargo Hold Relaxation Area

Airbus is currently developing a design to turn its cargo holds into flying capsule hotels.

In April 2018, Airbus announced that they plan to make airplanes with a cargo hold that can be converted into sleeping capsules and relaxation compartments for passengers.

The firm has partnered with Zodiac Aerospace, an aviation equipment supplier, to create the concept, which could give economy class fliers the chance to swap cramped seating for capsule-style beds and sofas.

The lower deck could also be turned into a gym, a fine-dining restaurant or even a kids mini playground.

According to the Head of Cabin & Cargo at Airbus, Mr. Geoff Pinner, Airlines are looking for innovative ways to use space on their aircraft. On a long-haul flight, the airline could rent out each of these spaces to a number of passengers in different time slots throughout the flight.

7.In-Flight Virtual Reality

With Lufthansa recently offering Virtual Reality(VR) in-flight entertainment to passengers on its Dubai bound flights, it looks like this technology is finally here.

Airbus has patented such a helmet attached to the airplane seat, which creates an immersive environment for watching 3D movies, playing video games or simply relaxing.

This will surely help passengers have a pleasant flying experience, especially if they are flying for the first time.

8.Smart Toilet Tap/Faucet

The “E-Tom Smart Faucet”, designed by researchers from Cranfield University in the UK, helps airplanes save on water, and therefore fuel.

The faucets atomize water, breaking it into a fine mist that still comes out fast enough to clean hands, allowing lavatory-goers to use 90 percent less water.

It also has charcoal filters to keep water pure and can clean itself.

Modern technological innovations in air travel are slowly coming to India and we at AirWhizz are continuously trying to implement it and bring it to you. From real-time flight updates to providing information about airports and airlines, we help you plan your trip on the move.

Download the AirWhizz App NOW and Fly Stress-Free!

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Independence Day: Security Tightened At Major Indian Airports!

Security at major airports in India is being tightened ahead of the 72nd Independence Day celebrations.

The Union Home Ministry has already issued a country-wide alert asking states to tighten security at sensitive locations to prevent any attempt of a terror strike.

Here’s how authorities are boosting security at major airports.

Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi

About 100-150 additional Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel have been deployed at the airport and passengers may have to undergo a rigorous check of themselves and their luggage, even twice in certain cases.

Intelligence officers in plain clothes have also been added inside the airport premises to profile and identify potential security risks.

According to a CISF personnel,  passengers may have to take off their shoes and belt before they are frisked. He also said that a close eye is being kept at all category of vehicles entering the airport area.

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad

Entry of visitors has been barred at the city’s airport from 10th  to 20th August. The airport has also issued a statement asking passengers to cooperate with security staff and arrive well in advance at the airport during this period.

Apart from CISF, professionals from the Quick Response Team (QRT) will also be deployed at the airport to deal with any emergency situations.

The police have said that they will be deploying trained officers on the airport premises to keep a lookout for those moving suspiciously at the airport and its surrounding areas.

Chennai International Airport

Following the instructions from the government, the city’s airport has put in place a seven-tier security arrangement.

Passengers with valid tickets are being allowed inside the airport after a thorough frisking of their bags and visitors have been banned from entering the airport premises.

According to authorities, these security measures will be followed till 22nd August.

Apart from Indian airports, security has been buffed up at important places like railway stations, metros stations, temples, commercial establishments, shopping malls and amusement parks.

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Cochin Airport Resumes Normal Flight Operations After Flood Scare!

Due to heavy rains and flooding in nearby areas, Cochin Airport had stopped the operations of arrival flights on Thursday for a few hours.

The arrivals were halted as a precautionary measure following the opening of the Idamalayar and Cheruthoni reservoirs, due to rising water levels in the Periyar river.

According to a statement released by Cochin International Airport Limited(CIAL), operations are running normal at the Kochi airport since the area is not affected by the floods. There have been no cancellations in flights so far.

However, visuals from Kerala are not so reassuring. With all five dams of the Idukki reservoir being open for the first time in the history, people living on the banks of Periyar river and adjoining areas are on high alert. Nedumbassery, where the airport is situated, is adjacent to Aluva, one of the areas which has been severely affected by floods.

Airline companies, which operate services in the state, are keeping their fingers crossed. The companies will have to incur huge operational cost in case of flight diversions to neighbouring airports if the Cochin Airport is closed.

They also fear that if their airplanes are stranded at the airport due to the floods, their entire schedule would get severely affected. For an airline company, aircraft being stuck in airports is a serious issue than incurring operational expenditure due to flight diversion.

The state government has instructed the authorities at the Thiruvananthapuram Airport and the Calicut International Airport to get prepared to receive airplanes in case the airport is closed.

In 2013, officials had to shut down Cochin Airport, when the adjoining Chengal Canal overflowed after opening the upper Sholayar dam and four shutters of Idamalyar dam due to heavy rainfall, leading to massive floods.

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Everything You Need To Know About Flying In The Monsoon Season!

The monsoon season is upon us with lashing rains, thunderstorms and striking lightening!

Statistics reveal to us that flying is safer than driving. But no one really cares about those numbers when you’re sitting on a bumpy flight surrounded by dark and thunderous clouds.

To help keep your panic attack at bay, we are going to tell you about why you shouldn’t fear flying in the monsoon season and some travel tips to go with it.

Why You Shouldn’t Fear Flying In The Monsoon

1. Airplanes Can Withstand Lightning

According to aviation experts, an aircraft is hit by lighting at least once a year.

But don’t worry! it will not burn and char your airplane. Airplanes are built to absorb over eight times the energy carried by a bolt of lightning.

Also, the tiny pin like devices you must have seen on the wings of your airplane, absorbs the electric energy and does not let it affect the passengers or the aircraft electronics.

2.Aircrafts Are Designed To Handle Bad Weather

Aircrafts manufacturers build airplanes in such a way that they don’t tear apart in rough weather. The wings and the main body of an aircraft can withstand extreme wind pressure when flying.

Also, they install advanced avionics to help pilots land in lower visibility which is often the case during heavy rains.

You’d be surprised to know that aircrafts are a lot more maneuverable than they seem. But pilots keep it straight and cruise it for the comfort of the passenger.

3. It’s Completely Safe To Take Off During Monsoons

It may seem that your flight might be at risk, looking at the amount of rain and wind while on your way to the airport, but that’s not true.

Thousands of flights around the world operate in rains and snow without any hassle.

Also, airlines have very strict rules about operating in such conditions. The Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) will not allow the airplane to take of if the conditions are dangerous.

Your flight might get delayed but if your flight is on the taxiway and ready to take off you don’t need to worry and are good to go.

4. Pilots & Flight Attendants Can Handle Such Situations

You might imagine your captain frantically trying to take control of the airplane stick while flying through a bumpy weather.

In reality its quite the opposite!

Your pilot is probably worrying about keeping the coffee in the cup and  cursing the airplane through the stormy clouds. This is because turbulence is common, and in several cases, it is handled by the aircraft’s autopilot.

Also, your flight attendants have been trained to handle all worst case scenarios.

5. Your Aircraft’s Tyre won’t Skid During Landing

Landing is the most challenging part of any flight, but your aircraft’s tyres have got you covered.

The tyres of an airplane are designed to withstand a weight of more than 35 tons. These tyres are so strong that airplanes can land at 170 Miles per hour for more than 500 times.

Additionally, airplane tyres are inflated to 200 pounds per square inch, which is about six times the pressure used in a car tyre.

Along with this, your pilot continuously adjusts the airplanes landing distance and speed so that the airplane doesn’t skid-off.

6. Statistics Speak For Themselves

Flying is indeed safer than any other mode of transport.

According to a research conducted by Statistic Brain Research Institute in 2017, the odds of actually being involved in a plane crash is 1 in 29.5 million.

The number of aircraft crashes has been steadily declining over the last 20 years, up to the point that 2017 was declared one of the safest years in aviation history.

While plane crashes are often highlighted by the media, the occurrence is extremely rare.

Now that you know why you should fear flying in the rains, here are a few simple tips you should follow while catching your flight in the monsoon season.

Travel Tips For The Monsoon Season

1. Leave Early For The Airport.

Last Month, during heavy rains, a bridge collapsed in Mumbai causing a massive traffic jam , which blocked the road for airport commuters.

Even though such incidences are rare, you should leave at least three hours before the time you have to reach the airport, during the monsoon season.

You will keep able to keep a buffer in case you meet with a huge traffic jam on your way.

If you don’t find traffic during your commute, here are “5 Ways To Kill Time At The Airport” if you arrive early.

2. Choose The Right Airplane Seat

Flying through monsoon clouds will mean bumps, thuds, sudden drops and lifts, however, this is very normal.

Pick a seat right above the airplane wing, or in the emergency exit row. It’s the closest to the aircraft’s center of gravity, and you will have a relatively comfortable ride.

Make sure you don’t get a seat at the back of the airplane, otherwise you’re bound to have a bumpy ride.

3.Carry Medicines and Repellents

As a precautionary measure, make sure that you always carry the first-aid kit and insect repellents.

Monsoon is the season that attracts insects and mosquitoes. Apart from them, diseases are also rampant and travel through the air and water.

So it’s best to carry repellents to keep the disease carriers away and medicines in case you fall sick.

4.Pack Some Form Of Entertainment

Flight delays will happen during monsoon season, which can force you to be stuck at the airport for a really long time.

Pack some board games, books or carry games with you on your tablet or laptop so that you can wait out the bad weather with some form of entertainment.

5. Obey Your Flight Attendant’s Instructions

This is the most important tip!

The most common reason for people getting hurt during turbulent flights is not being buckled in by the seat belt.

Please make sure that you follow all the instructions given by your airline’s flight attendant and follow each step accordingly, especially during a turbulent flight.

If you want to plan a stress free flight during the monsoon season, look no further. Simply download the AirWhizz app to get real-time weather and flight updates, along with airline and airport information to plan your trip on the move.

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Varanasi Airport To Have A National Highway Under Its Runway!

Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri (LBS) International Airport, is all set to undergo a unique revamp!

The airport’s runway will have a national highway running under it, which will make it India’s first ever airport runway with such a unique feature. The construction of an underpass will ensure the expansion of the runway for the landing of big airplanes.

Currently, authorities are working on extending the airport’s runway from 2750 meters to 4075 meters. National Highway (NH) 56 which will run under the runway and will be converted into a 4 lane road. The runway expansion and underpass construction are happening simultaneously.

According to the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) Project Director, Mr. S.B.Singh, NH 56 will be India’s first highway to pass under an airport runway. The project will also solve the long-pending issue of deciding the alignment of the NH 56.

In 2004, Airports Authority Of India (AAI) had proposed for the expansion of the airport’s runway. However, as a railway track runs on the eastern side of the runway, the expansion could only take place on the west where the NH-56 exists.

The proposal was rejected for over a decade but in 2015 AAI sent a letter to the Utter Pradesh Government, seeking the required land. For the project, AAI acquired 593.77 acres of land in Mangari, Bikunthpur, Karmi, Ghamhapur  Karmi, Sagunaha and Pura Raghunathpur villages.

Australia’s Brisbane International Airport and Germany’s Leipzig/Halle Airport(In The Picture Above) are 2 such airports around the world which have national highways running underneath their runways.

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Second International Airport To Open In Goa To Boost Tourism!

In a bid to cater to the increasing tourism in Goa, authorities will soon open a second international airport in Mopa, which is located in the north side of the state.

The upcoming Mopa Airport will be a greenfield airport and will have a capacity to handle around 30 million passengers in a year.

The airport will be built in 4 phases and will handle both passengers and cargo. In a letter to MLA Nilesh Cabral the Chief Minister of Goa, Mr. Manohar Parrikar, has asked to assign Rs 1900 crores for phase 1 of the project.

Phase 1 of the construction will be completed by 2020. Flight operations will commence thereafter and the commencement of phase 2 will start simultaneously.

Passenger capacity will be distributed throughout the four phases of the Mopa Airport, and eventually, by the end of phase 4, it will be able to fly 30 million passengers each year.

According to Mr. Parrikar, the annual passenger handling capacity of Mopa Airport will be 4.4 million in phase 1, 5.8 million phase 2, 9.4 million in phase 3 and 13.1 million in phase 4.

He has also said that the current Dabolim International Airport, which is a military-operated facility, will continue handling civilian aircraft operations even after the commissioning of the new international airport at Mopa.

The new airport will help bring in more tourists to the state, and the Dabolim Airport won’t have to take in too much of the passenger pressure. In 2016, Goa witnessed a 19.5 % growth in tourist footfalls (63.31 lakh tourists) and in 2017, that percentage increased to 22.98 %, with a total footfall of 77.85 lakh tourists.

Goa, being one of the prime tourist locations in India, attracts a massive crowd, especially during the winter months. With the opening of a second airport, travellers will have more options during the tourist season.

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Authorities Are Preparing Indian Airports To Handle Natural Disasters!

In a bid to protect Indian airports from natural disasters, Airports Authority of India (AAI) is conducting the ‘‘Get Airports Ready for Disaster” or GARD programme in the country.

GARD is a joint initiative between Deutsche Post DHL Group (DPDHL) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

This initiative is aimed at preparing airports to chalk out a plan to resist any kind of natural disaster. The pilot project of this initiative is being conducted at the Calicut International Airport in Kozhikode. Operations experts from 15 airports in India are attending this 5-day session, which started on Monday.

The GARD project ensures that the airport management is prepared to handle emergency situations such as failure of electricity/fuel supply, passenger/flight operations and security measures which often takes place during a natural disaster.

The experts will learn how to evaluate the current level of preparedness at airports, conduct training exercises, and develop an action plan to ensure that airports are prepared for natural disasters in the future. Till now, the GARD training programme has been conducted in 40 countries.

According to DPDHL’s Director of Humanitarian Efforts, Chris Weeks, this is the first time the GARD programme is being conducted at a global level to train airport operators in countries which are above the average risk for natural disasters.

UNDP’s Assistant Country Director, Dr. Preeti Soni, has said that with increased climate change vulnerability, it is essential to improve national capacities and resilience against natural disasters. This can be achieved by training local authorities in special customs & immigration and having a passenger evacuation plan or accommodation within airports for the first 72 hours of an emergency situation.

With heavy rains disrupting day to day flight operations in India, this programme will surely help airport operators manage such situations and make life easier for air travellers.

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Jet Airways Cancels Pay Cut Proposal After Internal Protests!

Last week Jet Airways had announced that they might reduce the salaries of their employees by almost 25 % owing to a financial crunch.

The Airline has decided to not go ahead with this plan after a lot of backlash from their staff, including pilots.

The management had delayed their staff’s salary thinking that they would be convinced that a pay cut would be in the overall interest of the airline. However, the management went back on its proposal after the chairman’s assurance to employees. The airline has credited the full salary of its staff for the month of July.

The top-level management has taken a pay cut to help the airline cut on wage costs and survive this financial storm, which has been created by the unfavorable aviation market.

Jet Airways brand name has taken a beating after news of financial turbulence. In fact, the airline saw many ticket cancellations across the country due to this.

The airline’s Chairman, Mr. Naresh Goyal, held a meeting with the staff saying that these circumstances are temporary and Jet Airways is ready to benefit from the growth in the Indian aviation sector.

Following the meeting, pilots association National Aviators Guild (NAG), issued a statement calling for unity in these tough times. They said that NAG is confident of Jet Airways’ short and long-term sustainability.

Jet Airways finances have been hit due to rising crude oil prices and weakening of the rupee, which has inflated their operating cost. In addition to these factors, the airline has lost a chunk of its market share to its main competition, IndiGo.

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