
From ‘Skytanic' to bizarre ‘blended wing' jet – five astonishing planes of the future we could see by 2030
With record-breaking ranges of 9,000 non-stop miles, to supersonic speeds that can slash flight times
READY, JET, GO! From 'Skytanic' to bizarre 'blended wing' jet – five astonishing planes of the future we could see by 2030
TECHNOLOGY is rapidly changing on the ground, in space and the sky in between.
Here's a glimpse into the not-so-distant future of air travel.
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Soon to be the world's biggest plane, WindRunner, will be able to carry 12-times more than a Boeing 747
Credit: RADIA
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Dubbed "Skytanic", the airliner will take to the skies by 2030
Credit: RADIA
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The world's first "blended-wing body" plane, dubbed the Z4, could someday replace older Boeing jets
Credit: JetZero
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The 250-passenger Z4 plane, built by JetZero, has not yet been certified - but the company is hoping to launch it by 2030
Credit: JetZero
'Skytanic'
Soon to be the world's biggest plane, WindRunner, will be able to carry 12-times more than a Boeing 747.
Dubbed "Skytanic", the airliner will take to the skies by 2030, almost a decade after the idea was put forward by aerospace firm Radia.
It will be tasked with transporting enormous cargo.
WindRunner will clock in at an incredible 356ft - longer than the pitch at Wembley - and will be 79ft tall.
'Blended wing' jet
The world's first "blended-wing body" plane, dubbed the Z4, could someday replace older Boeing jets.
The unique design was just backed by United Airlines, which has plans to purchase up to 200 of the swanky new planes.
The 250-passenger Z4 plane, built by JetZero, has not yet been certified - but the company is hoping to launch it by 2030.
Managing director of United Airlines Venture told Business Insider that the Z4's oversized wing could create a "living room in the sky".
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In October last year, the Beijing-based firm said that it successfully completed the first test flight for the prototype model
Credit: YUNXING
Yunxing superplane
A futuristic 'superplane' that could ferry passengers from London to New York City in just 90 minutes is hoped to be in the sky by 2027.
The Chinese company, Space Transportation, behind the project is reportedly inching closer towards the production of the aircraft, called Yunxing.
In October last year, the Beijing-based firm said that it successfully completed the first test flight for the prototype model.
The jet could potentially reach the speed of Mach 4 (3,00mph) - twice as fast as the British Concorde.
World's first private jet that can fly 9,000 miles non-stop to launch across US and Europe after breaking records
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This globetrotting jumbo jet is set to launch across US and Europe, having secured FAA and EASA certifications
Credit: Gulfstream
Globe trotter
The Gulfstream G800 boasts a record-breaking range, allowing it to fly an incredible 9,000 miles without stopping.
This globetrotting jumbo jet is set to launch across US and Europe, having secured FAA and EASA certifications.
It's hoped it will be zooming across skies in 2030.
Now the longest-range private aircraft in the world, the Gulfstream G800 can ferry passengers to almost anywhere in the world without taking a single stop.
If the jet were to take off from London it could fly to any airport across the globe - with the exception of Sydney.
It has three luxurious living areas for up to 19 passengers, as well as a dedicated crew compartment for maximum in-flight comfort.
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Overture aircraft could feasibly fly passengers from London to New York City in just 3.5 hours at supersonic speeds
Credit: The Mega Agency
Boom Overture
The supersonic Overture jet is on track for a 2029 launch, according to the company behind the project.
US-based Boom Technology has forecast a market for up to 1,000 supersonic airliners, across 500 viable routes, with fares comparable to business class.
Overture aircraft could feasibly fly passengers from London to New York City in just 3.5 hours at supersonic speeds.
The flight currently takes roughly 8 hours on a standard commercial carrier.
Laying the groundwork for Overture, Boom's XB-1 jet successfully reached supersonic speeds earlier this year.
Bosses at the Colorado-headquartered firm believe it will be the first US-built commercial supersonic jet to hit the market

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Edinburgh Reporter
2 hours ago
- Edinburgh Reporter
Brand Scotland – UK Government signs agreement with Scottish Chambers of Commerce
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The Independent
2 hours ago
- The Independent
What it would take to convert a jet from Qatar into Air Force One to safely fly Trump
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Western Telegraph
5 hours ago
- Western Telegraph
Restaurant at 'flagship' Saundersfoot harbour approved
In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Red Roses-based Rhianwen Lane of Catch Cymru sought permission for a change of use of Unit 21, Marine Centre of Excellence, Saundersfoot Harbour, Saundersfoot to a food and drink establishment with indoor seating and a takeaway. The proposal was supported by Saundersfoot Community Council. A supporting statement with the application said: 'Catch Cymru is an established, independent seafood business based in Carmarthen, with a strong reputation for high-quality takeaway seafood. 'As a result of the success and demand for our current operation, we are now looking to expand by opening a second restaurant in Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire. 'Our aim for this new shop is not only to replicate our successful takeaway model but also to enhance the customer experience by providing a unique, seaside dining experience that will appeal to both locals and tourists alike. 'In addition to our existing offerings of fried fish and chips, the Saundersfoot restaurant will offer a broader menu, including seasonal grilled and barbequed fish, fresh salads, and a variety of side dishes to cater to a wider demographic, to include halloumi fries, corn on the cob etc. 'This expansion will also allow us to continue our popular takeaway service while providing a casual dine-in atmosphere with a drinks menu that features locally sourced beers and IPAs.' The application says a key feature of the menu at the dog-friendly restaurant will be 'Catch of the Day' specials, 'based on the freshest seafood available from the local harbour,' giving customers 'a unique experience and encourage repeat visits knowing that we support local fishermen'. It also plans to host live music events from local artists on selected weekends, especially during peak season and bank holidays to 'help create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that encourages customers to linger, enjoy their food and drinks, but most importantly return for more'. An officer report recommending approval said the change of use of an existing chandlery from A1(Shop) to A3 (Food & Drink) 'will ensure that the vacant unit within the Marine Centre of Excellence is brought back into use and positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour'. The Marine Centre of Excellence was given planning consent in 2016, subject to a condition which restricts the available retail floor space and its use. The report says a viability statement from the Saundersfoot Harbour Authority' detailed how the unit was no longer viable for A1/A2 use and that an A3 use would provide vitality and vibrancy to the harbourside location'. It finished: 'The proposed development will have no adverse impact on the special qualities of the National Park and will positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour. 'A seafood business would fit within the character of the seafront at the Marine Centre of Excellence and will bring a vacant unviable retail unit back into use providing a benefit to the community and local economy.' The application was conditionally approved by park planners.