Airbus reports on Australian passenger expectations

Australians are looking forward to taking 70 per cent more flights overseas, in luxurious comfort and with ‘ubiquitous networking’ by 2050, according to research by Airbus.

The survey into consumer expectations for air travel finds three out of four Australians think people will be flying more in the future.

Of possible technological advancements, the most popular include improvements in cabin design with more privacy for an enhanced travelling experience.

Both female and male passengers also called for full access to their ‘digital world’ in-flight. This could include the ability to plug-and-play personal MP3 players, download music and movies online, access social networking and surf the web through the in-flight entertainment system.

Robin Mannings, a leading independent Futurologist, says: “By 2050, we’ll expect seamless access to a plethora of technology and applications. And ‘flexibility’ will become the new mantra for air travel, with us as passengers choosing levels of speed or luxury in cruise ships of the sky.”

The survey is part of the aircraft manufacturer’s efforts to engage air passengers in developing its vision for the eco-efficient aviation industry of the future.

Airbus unveiled its Concept Plane at last year’s Farnborough International Airshow in the UK and is now working on further future-gazing blueprints that could help revolutionise air travel. These include radical cabin interiors and a choice between speed and luxury, with ‘flying palaces’ featuring casinos and restaurants.

Charles Champion, Airbus Executive Vice President Engineering says: “The world is changing faster and we must anticipate future air travel developments and needs. To do so, aircraft designers have to match technological capabilities with consumer preferences. At Airbus we’re listening to the passengers of tomorrow and stretching our imagination to think beyond our usual boundaries.”

Airbus is particularly interested in engaging with the ‘Passengers of 2050’. Among Australians aged 16-24, 86 per cent think we’ll be taking to the skies more often in the next four decades. For this next generation, a desire to see more of the world is the primary reason given for driving demand.

The majority of 25-34 year olds see aviation’s role in bringing greater flexibility between home and the workplace as most important.

Whereas those aged 35-44 cite the need to stay in touch with family and friends increasingly spread across the globe.