Like A Bird

The term ‘snowbird’ may take on quite a literal meaning with this one.

Seymourpowell, a U.K. design company, has released details of a new travel concept that can basically be summed up as a hotel in the sky. Straight out of a futuristic, sci-fi movie, the Aircruise could be your next ticket to jet-setting around the world.

The Aircruise is a giant, vertical airship powered by natural energy – it’s meant to be lifted by hydrogen and powered by solar energy – and it is designed to carry travellers in style and luxury. From base to tip, it stands at 265 metres tall and is capable of lifting 396 tonnes. The craft boasts penthouse apartments, stylish bars, duplex apartments, and even glass viewing floors.

The Aircruise concept has benefits both for travellers and the environment. The term “cruise” is an important one to note, because from London to New York, the airship is meant to move at approximately 100 to 150 km/h. That would mean that it would take about 37 hours to get to your destination at cruising speed without tail or headwind.

According to the company, it created its design with the intention of accommodating a maximum of 100 passengers, making the journey an adventure in itself. Travellers may even want to consider the Aircruise as a potential venue for life’s big events like weddings or a really, really big promotion.

Design director Nick Talbot has said in an interview that the goal of the Aircruise is to make slow the new fast.

— Kate Aenlle