Why commercial planes are still so similar to those built 50 years ago

While phones, computers, and cars have advanced by light years in the 50 years, here’s why commercial planes are so similar to those built over half a century ago.

Stats suggest that 4.46 billion passengers flew in 2019 – with figures taking a steep drop during the 2020 pandemic, whereas in 1970 that figure was a mere 310 million.

However, with the exception of less legroom, tiny TV screens, and more cramped conditions anywhere bar First Class – the design of commercial planes remains the same.

READ MORE! The world of private jets: types, costs, and ownership options

Why are commercial planes unchanged?

The reason for airline-cabin being designed as stagnant as the air is simply: it all comes down to money.

While airplanes focus their attention on other aspects of commercial airplanes, cabin design takes a back – and pretty cramped – seat.

Conversely, classic Pan Am flights featured bars and lounges, with passengers flying in comparison.

Now airlines have reduced legroom, aisle width, the size of the toilet, and space for cabin baggage, in favor of squeezing in more seating.

More seats equate to more paying passengers – but it also means more weight.

Most modern airline companies focus their investment on the overall weight of the plane rather than interior design.

How to make commercial planes lighter

While metal is a requirement to withstand the speed of jet-powered flight, planes need to be made of light materials to get off the ground.

Aluminum and titanium were once used, however metallics are now being dropped in favor of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic composites.

Composites are more expensive than metal, but unlike aluminum, they don’t corrode.

Boeing and several other aerospace companies are exploring polymers and ceramics to construct aircraft.

While matching metals and composites on strength – they’re far lighter.

The bonus: this also boosts a plane’s fuel efficiency.

Aside from weight, airlines are spending large sums of money on lean-burn engines, to lower the carbon footprint and, of course, save money on fuel.

The future of commercial planes

But while things haven’t changed yet, there is evolution on the horizon.

Longer haul flights, for example, are forcing change.

It’s hoped that by September 2024, Air New Zealand will be introducing its ‘Skynest’ concept to its Boeing 787 fleet of jets.

With a set of six bunk beds sitting in economy class, travelers who don’t have money to burn can experience a more comfortable flight – arriving at their destination refreshed and ready to go.

German airline, Lufthansa, is also targeting the economy experience – as well as passengers in premium economy, business, and first class.

In short, there will be a choice of 14 seat types.

These range from beds with closeable privacy doors to adjustable seats that won’t upset your rear neighbor.

Here’s the most exclusive premium first-class cabin returning to US air travel.

In a land down under, airline cabin designer, David Caon, is drawing up designs for a more homey cabin aboard Australian airline company, Qantas.

He spoke to The Telegraph, about his desire to get rid of overhead compartments in favor of easy-to-use seat-side storage.

And with 12 seats gone, there is space for a stretching and exercise area for economy passengers when the ‘Fasten seatbelts’ sign is switched off.

Want to see what lies beneath? Check out this mind-blowing footage exposing the true interior of a Boeing 737.

As a warning, you might not want to see.

For something a bit more calming and luxurious, this deep dive into private jet design and interiors reveals how they’ve evolved over the years.