Five innovations to transform air travel

Drinks robot, UV germ zapper among gizmos to make your journey entertaining

Amid a dearth of new plane models, the aviation industry is intensifying the search for in-cabin innovations to lure passengers with wider seats, faster service and even fresh pancakes.

Among developments this year, Qatar Airways revealed a business berth, which can be swivelled to form a meeting area for four or a double bed. Dubai-based Emirates, which already offers airborne showers on its A380 superjumbos, is giving its flying bars a saloon-style redo. Meanwhile, Airbus Group SE on Tuesday said it was redesigning the A380 double-decker’s so-called grand staircase to create more space for passengers.

The next generation of gizmos, on show