Advanced Lighting Systems in new Boeing 787 jets

From a story on ITP Business, we learn about new lighting systems that will allow passengers to adjust the amount of light transmitted through their windows. Five different levels - from dark to clear - are available.

Also under development for the new 787 is new ceiling lighting.

Boeing is seeking to control the aircraft's lighting to create a sense of space. "The ceiling goes on for ever and ever and then disappears," says Emery. Boeing is also looking to develop the concept of mood lighting, something that is becoming more common on long-haul flights as airlines attempt to create a sense of well-being for their passengers, even if the alarm bells are ringing on their body clocks. "We are in the throws of dealing with mood lighting right now," says Emery.

"We will have an all-LED lighting system that will enable airlines to create different scenarios. They might want different lighting depending on whether they are boarding people, taking off, cruising, serving breakfast, lunch or dinner," says Emery. "It is our philosophy that lighting can become a differentiator."

He warns that Boeing has noticed one or two drawbacks with advanced lighting systems, however. "If you are not careful, you will have food that looks green or blue," he warns.

¶ 8:41 AM