Airbus patents removable cabin from plane to speed up boarding

Airbus has just come up with a new patent that could significantly reduce boarding and disembarking times from airplanes while also being a lot more user friendly for disabled passengers.

Passengers waiting at check in gates would walk right into the cabin Image by (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader)

The giant plane manufacturer has been given the go-ahead to develop its idea whereby the cabin of a plane could become detached and using crane-like arms, located immediately outside the check-in gates.

This would eliminate the need for passengers to walk down corridors and stairs before either walking or being driven out to where planes are currently located on the tarmac – this takes a lot of time and also needs crew attention to avoid accidents with passing vehicles ferrying luggage to and from aircraft.

This would have a huge advantage for disabled passengers who would not have to wait for assistance to get up and down steps on their way to the plane. Another plus would mean that the mechanical aspects of the craft could be examined while people board without interrupting the work of refueling and repairing.

Overall it is estimated that the new patent would “significantly reduce boarding times” because the transfer of passengers, luggage and repairs are taking place at the same time.