The Airbus Concept Plane is making its Asian public debut as part of an exhibition celebrating 100 years of aviation in Singapore, which is being held at the island nation’s Changi Airport.

Organised by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), the Singapore Aviation Centennial Exhibition charts key events in the country’s century of flight – during which it has risen to become one of the Asia-Pacific region’s most important hubs.

Airbus’ concept aircraft is playing an important role in the display, providing a glimpse of what aviation may look like in the year 2050. This “engineer’s dream” was designed by Airbus experts in materials, aerodynamics, cabins and engines, and is characterized by its ultra long and slim wings, semi-embedded engines, a U-shaped tail and lightweight “intelligent” body.

Additional features of the Airbus Concept Plane include a bionic structure that mimics the efficiency of birds; cabin walls that become transparent at the touch of a button to enable 360-degree views; and a new intelligent environment with entirely recyclable fixtures and fittings.

It is not a plane intended to fly – rather it is a representation of the main technological fields that are being explored to face future needs, including a significant cut in fuel burn and emissions, less noise and greater comfort.

Airbus press release