Futuristic Concept of ‘Flying Trains’ Could Revolutionize Air Travel

Photo: AKKA Technologies

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A plane that lands on a runway and transforms swiftly into a train? It could potentially become a thing in the not-too-distant future. Akka Technologies has unveiled its ‘Link & Fly’ aircraft design, envisioning a modular craft that relies on a passenger pod and detachable wings to speed up the boarding process.

“After cars go electric and autonomous, the next big disruption will be in airplanes,” Akka’s chief executive officer, Maurice Ricci, said in an interview in Paris. Boeing is among prime customer targets for Akka, as it seeks to limit its dependence on the likes of Airbus and Renault in Europe.

During the ride to the airport, everyone would have their retinas scanned for security. Wings are then attached to the tube for take-off, before the vessel takes flight. Maurice Ricci, Akka’s chief executive who’s already made millions off his innovative ideas, is already pitching the concept to several aircraft companies including Boeing.

Similar to Airbus’ A320 jet in size and target usage, the Akka Link & Fly carriage for short-range flights carries 162 passengers and the seats can be taken out to move freight instead. With the wings clipped on, and the engines fixed on top, the design has wingspan of about 49 meters, is 34 meters long and 8 meters high.