airbus transforms airplane cargo holds into lower-deck dormitories

airbus has partnered with zodiac aerospace to develop lower-deck modules offering passengers a dormitory-type of accommodation. the modules have been designed to fit inside the aircraft’s cargo compartments and can be swapped in and out to tailor each aircraft to individual flight’s needs.

all images courtesy of airbus

the partnership hopes this development will improve the experience of passengers while enabling airlines to differentiate and add value for their commercial operations. according to airbus, the modules will be easily interchangeable with regular cargo containers during a typical turnaround if required, not interfering with an aircraft’s loading system.

the company plans to offer airlines a catalog of options by 2020, for the A330 initially. mock-ups include a lounge area, medical space, kids and family zone, and a conference room. they’ll be available for line-fit and retrofit markets. offerability of sleeper compartments on the A350 XWB airliner is also being studied.