The Airbus A3XX double-deck passenger jet

The increase will put further pressure on inflight tension as airlines scramble for more capacity per trip in an effort to keep operating costs down. The oftencrampedseating arrangements, specifically in economy class, has led to an increase in passenger violence. The Airbus company might just have the answer to more comfortable travel with their new double-deck jet, the A3XX.

Airbus will introduce a family of A3XX aircraft, each with twin aisles and 2 levels, providing more room than any previous aircraft. Passengership-style stairs lead between the levels. Thecargo compartmentscan be used for shops, exercise areas and sleeping rooms.

The A3XX interior. Extreme comfort - expect the full range of the latest entertainment gadgets.

The baseline A3XX-100, with a capacity of 555 passengers in three classes, will have a range of up to 14,200km (7,650nm). The stretched A3XX-200 will be capable of transporting 656 passengers, also up to 14,200km (7,650nm). The A3XX-100R variant will retain the same 555 seat capacity, but with a range of 16,200km (8,750nm). Also under consideration is a smaller version, the A3XX-50R, to carry 481 passengers up to the same 16,200km (8,750nm) range as the 100R.

Thefreightermarket, currently growing at twice the rate of the passenger market, will see the introduction of the Airbus A3XX-100F with apayloadof 150 tonnes (330,000lbs) and a range of 10,630km (5,725nm). Further developments include Combi versions with either seven main deck pallets providing 473 seats and 37.9 tonnes (83,380lbs) of cargo with a range of 13,500km (7,270nm) or an 11-pallet layout, 421 seats, 51.3 tonnes (112,860lbs) of cargo and a range of 12,940km (6,970nm).

At the request of airlines and airport authorities, the A3XX fits within an 80 x 80m (262 x 262 ft) horizontal box, to make best use of current runways, taxiways and gates. The A3XX will use the same runway length as the Boeing 747, even though itsfuselageis 25cm (10 in) wider. Airbus also developed a new light material called Glare, made offibreglassandaluminium alloy, which would shave several tonnes off the weight.