Delta’s “Cozy Suite” in Economy Class

Most of us hate economy class, Delta’s new “Cozy Suite” seats promise to make economy class seating less hellish. The major feature of the design is a staggered layout that increases privacy while simultaneously creating a space for weary travelers to rest their heads. It also allows passengers to enjoy 31-inches of leg room (2-inches better than the competition) and the ability to recline without disturbing the person behind them.

Delta is planning to have these seats in the economy section of its Boeing 777 and 767 fleet by year 2010. It still may not be as fancy as first class accommodations, but it’s a change from what we are having.

“Groundbreaking” Eco-friendly Apartment: Bought by Leonardo DiCaprio

The Titanic star, who is also an outspoken environmentalist has just purchased a ‘green’ flat in New York’s pioneering Riverhouse complex. DiCaprio’s representative confirmed the sale but did not reveal how much the star had paid. A statement was released, however, saying “Riverhouse is a prime example of how green technology is both accessible and achievable for new residential developments – it is a groundbreaking building.”

What we know is that Riverhouse offers one-bedroom properties from $835,000 and four-bedroom homes from $2,975,000, so it’s somewhere in between.

The 264-unit complex in Rockefeller Park was built using locally acquired renewable materials, is partly powered by solar energy,offers a 24-hour fresh-filtered air system and boasts green rooftops planted with pine trees.

Riverhouse residents also have access to a children’s playroom, media cafe, fitness centre, dog spa and a treehouse. DiCaprio has long been an ardent campaigner on green issues. He was one of the first people to buy a hybrid car and has established his environment awareness organisation the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation.

Fly for five years: almost there

Flight Global just announced in this article that DARPA is close to awarding a contract to build an unmanned aircraft that can stay in the air for up to 5 years. But again, the main issue is how are they going to power the aircraft for such period. The design of the aircraft is aimed at being able to hover over a single area, narcing, communicating, or surveying for years at a time. Oops, did I forgot to mention it will have to do it while carrying a 1000 pound payload in the fearsome winds at a 60,000—90,000 feet? No brainer right? Now I wonder if I’m going to be able to see the aircraft built before I turn 80.