As part of Qantas? ongoing research into ultra-long haul flying, the airline has put a survey to its 12,000 Frequent Flyers requesting their opinions on a range of ?the sky is the limit? concepts they?d like to see on board.
A stretch and exercise zone, communal bars, dining or self-service caf?, cr?che, work and study areas and the conversion of a number of lavatories into more spacious ?change and refresh? stations are just some of the ideas being floated in the survey.
Earlier this year the airline launched its new Perth-London direct service and, in an announcement in August last year, challenged aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus to extend the flying range of the next generation of aircraft to fly nonstop from the east coast of Australia direct to London and New York by 2022.
These new aircraft will open up a world of direct flight possibilities for passengers flying with the airline which will be able to reduce their overall travel time by up to four hours, by eliminating a stop-over and flying direct to their destination. With travellers set to spend up to 22 hours in the air, passenger comfort and well-being, in-flight entertainment and food and beverage will be key factors in designing the future on-board experience.
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 the long-haul flights. Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has also spoken about the possibility of converting the cargo hold into an additional space for passengers, including bunks.
Phil Capps, the airline?s head of customer strategy and product development, said: ?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. Our Frequent Flyers are experts when it comes to spending time in the air so we are keen to tap in to their experience to gauge appetite for a wide variety of possible innovations.
?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. What sounds unconventional today may well become tomorrow?s new norm. Some ideas are more viable than others but our strategy is to find out what the priorities are for a cross section of travellers.?
