QANTAS is moving into the next stage of its “Project Sunrise” quest for ultra-longhaul flight, seeking input from frequent flyers on the design of future aircraft.
New features such as exercise zones, on-board child care centres and in-flight bars will be floated among regular customers in a survey being sent this week to more than 12,000 Qantas Frequent Flyer members.
The airline has already engaged with global aircraft seat manufacturers, inviting them to come up with concepts for next-generation Economy and Premium Economy seats for ultra-long flights, while Qantas ceo Alan Joyce has spoken about the possibility of converting cargo holds into additional space for passengers, including bunks.
The carrier’s latest research is part of its challenge to aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus to create planes capable of flying nonstop from the east coast of Australia direct to London and New York by 2022.
It will ask customers for their thoughts on “sky’s the limit” concepts including stretch/exercise zones, communal bars or self-serve cafes, creches, work stations and enlarged bathrooms.
“The launch of direct flights from the east coast of Australia to Europe, UK and the US is going to completely revolutionise air travel and we are keen to do the same thing with the inflight offering for passengers on board these flights,” said Qantas head of customer strategy and product development Phil Capps.
“It’s still early days and the final cabins may feature some or none of the ideas we’re asking for feedback on, but we want to have the conversation with our customers to help inform our planning. We wanted to put all options on the table,” he said.
Source: traveldaily