Meet the Sky Cruise; a giant flying resort conceived by Tony Holmsten some 11 years ago, but recently animated by Hashem Al-Ghaili. A combination of a space -and cruise ship with every imaginable amenity. Text: Fleur de JongThegigantic plane can accommodate more than 5,000 guests, who board via, yes, another commercial or private plane...in fact, these planes can land on top of the Sky Cruise. The Sky Cruise's elevated deck 360-degree viewing platform offers stunning views of the stars. From the platform you can then catch the elevator which takes you to the entertainment deck. Here you have access to shopping malls, sports centers, swimming pools, restaurants, bar, playgrounds, theaters and cinemas.
According to the concept, the plane would be powered by 20 electric motors, which would be powered by a small nuclear reactor, which actually works like a modern mini nuclear power plant through nuclear fusion. Thus, the Sky Cruise would never have to land and could keep flying for years. Although animator Al-Ghaili stresses that it is still only a concept, he does say that small nuclear reactors that can power aircraft are expected to be ready by 2030. According to him, the US is already investing heavily in commercial nuclear fusion research. With just a few tweaks to the design, nuclear fusion and the right aerodynamics, Al-Ghaili says the Sky Cruise could one day take off and carry thousands of passengers above the clouds: "If an idea is not initially absurd, then there is no hope for it.
As for turbulence, the cruise's AI system promises to be able to predict this in advance, allowing it to stabilize in time. Very handy, especially if you just want to sip your cocktail at the bar....Â
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