Airbus has a patent to make cabins like shipping containers

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We keep checking the date – but no, it can’t be an April fool. Airbus has had a patent approved in the US for a “removable cabin module” on an aircraft, which could be filled with cargo or people. Essentially, it’s a box with seats (or not), which would be filled in the airport and then slotted into the aircraft, thus speeding up loading and unloading. As this article points out, however, the infrastructure changes required at airports are substantial. And there could be some safety aspects for passengers. However, you could always put cargo in the box… why ever did no one think of that before?