As a concept, the SkyDeck has been gaining a lot of attention, and anyone who’s dealt with that claustrophobic, isolated feeling on a long flight can probably understand why.
This clear bubble, meant to be installed in the roof of a plane, would give passengers a 360 degree view of the skies though which they travel and probably a more enjoyable and serene flight experience.
That’s the connotation you’ll get upon viewing the concept art for this novel idea, but how likely is it that the SkyDeck will go from that to something you can actually experience?
The Ultimate In Airborne Luxury?
If you hope to get a seat within a SkyDeck bubble, it will probably help to own or know someone who has access to a private plane, as that’s where this concept will probably first become a reality.
Below its tear-shaped glass bubble, SkyDeck would house one or two seats and a staircase or elevator tube that takes passengers to the unique, and rotatable vantage point.
The feature would be a $8 to 25 million addition to a private jet, with the cost based on the number of seats, function, and the specifics of the plane itself. For those who like to fly in style but save on fuel costs, its not the most efficient luxury.
The dome would be made from similar materials to those used on supersonic fighter jets. While it wouldn’t interfere with a jet’s aerodynamics, the added weight does increase fuel consumption.
Will It Really Take Off?
Although both Boeing and Airbus are said to have expressed interest in the SkyDeck, the feature has yet to be produced, tested, and certified.
According Bruce Stewart, director of engineering at Windspeed Tech, where the concept was developed, there’s no plan to move forward on SkyDeck until a customer places and order.
From there the production and installation process and subsequent testing would require the plane stay grounded for a few months and a would require at least a year and a half for the SkyDeck to finally take flight.
The addition hasn’t yet obtained FAA certifications, but Windspeed Tech hopes to gain them during the SkyDeck’s initial test period.
If the SkyDeck is going to become a reality, it appears to be a long way away, but do you think it will work?
If given the opportunity, would you prefer to experience a flight with a 360 degree view of the skies?
Article Sources:
http://mashable.com
http://www.cnn.com
http://www.theguardian.com
