CWT - Technology

Technology

Boeing expands in-cabin comforts

Travelers can look forward to more comfort and conveniences in-flight due to features built into Boeing's new workhorse 737 scheduled for service next year. Perhaps the most appreciated cabin convenience will be overhead bins that store much more than today's model. When opened, bins pivot down for easy loading. When closed, they rise to a space above at a level that makes it possible for passengers to stand up in their seats without bumping their heads.

Boeing's 787 Dreamliner, scheduled for release early next year, will have "dimming" windows. Instead of shades, travelers press a button and the window darkens gradually, giving the feeling of a sunset. The new windows are also larger than today's standard windows.

New Boeing aircraft are also meeting rising customer demand for in-flight Wi-Fi. For more information about the airlines' progress making Wi-Fi widely available, please read the additional article in this issue "Sending and receiving email at 35,000 feet."

Sources: The Wall Street Journal, ABC News