Revolutionary or Ridiculous? Airbus Proposes Flying Planes from the Toilet

Airbus A380 — _iwikoz6 from Getty Images

Airbus is exploring ways to cut airline costs, and its latest proposal has sparked significant debate. The European aerospace manufacturer is reportedly considering equipping cockpits with in-seat toilets to enable single-pilot operations during flights. This controversial idea has drawn sharp criticism, especially from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), the largest global pilot union.

The proposal, highlighted during ALPA’s 50th Board of Directors meeting, involves replacing the second jumpseat in the cockpit with a toilet. According to ALPA representatives, this setup would allow a lone pilot to step away from the controls while remaining connected through a communication panel near the toilet. Pilots could monitor instrumentation and respond to air traffic control (ATC) calls even while away from the main controls.

This configuration would form the foundation of Extended Minimum Crew Operations (eMCO), a concept where a single pilot could manage the cockpit while another rests during long-haul flights. Typically, such flights require three or four pilots to rotate duties. With eMCO, airlines could potentially reduce crew numbers, cutting costs on lengthy routes.

Airbus believes the technology needed to support eMCO is ready. In fact, the company may begin testing the concept on an A350 aircraft as early as 2027. Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus’s commercial aircraft division, has expressed confidence in the technology but acknowledges hurdles with regulators and public perception.

“This is not a matter of technology,” Scherer said in 2019. “It’s a matter of interaction with regulators and the perception of the traveling public. Technology-wise, we don’t see a hurdle.”

Airlines might view eMCO-capable planes as a cost-efficient solution, especially for long-haul operations. However, the proposal raises significant safety concerns. Critics argue that having only one pilot actively in the cockpit during certain periods increases risks in emergencies. While Airbus insists on the reliability of its planes, the unpredictable nature of human health or behavior remains a critical concern.

ALPA has voiced strong opposition to this idea, emphasizing the risks involved if the single pilot becomes incapacitated. For example, if the pilot suffers a medical emergency while away from the controls, such as a heart attack, the plane would face significant operational challenges. Current commercial planes lack the capability to autonomously complete landings without a pilot at the controls.

Airbus’s proposal highlights the tension between technological advancements and regulatory approval. While cost-cutting measures like eMCO may appeal to airlines, the implications for passenger safety, pilot workload, and public trust remain contentious. Whether or not this concept becomes a reality will depend on the ongoing discussions between Airbus, regulators, and stakeholders in the aviation industry.