AIRBUS has given a glimpse of what flying might be like in the future.

While its latest planes – the massive A380 superjumbo and the popular A320 – feature in the flying displays at the Farnborough Air Show, the firm revealed images its designers have produced images of a fantasy-like aircraft. Airbus says it might be the type of plane flying by 2050, or even earlier if technology continues at a good rate.

The lightweight plane includes ultra-long, slim bent-back wings and a U-shaped tail.

Charles Champion, engineering executive vice-president at Airbus, added: “Our concept plane represents an engineer's dream about what an aircraft could look like in the long-term future.

“It's not a real aircraft and all the technologies it features, though feasible, are not likely to come together in the same manner.

“Here we are stretching our imagination and thinking beyond our usual boundaries. We want to stimulate young people from all over the world to engage with us so that we can continue to share the benefits of air transport while also looking after the environment.”

Ruling out an all-new A320 Airbus, chief operating officer John Leahy said: “It will only happen when we have game-changing technology.

“That will include probably a geared open rotor engine with new materials, as well as new airframe and systems architecture. If we were to design a new single-aisle today, it would look pretty much like an A320.

“It would have some composite materials – probably the wing – but the fuselage would be aluminium or aluminium alloy.”

The aircraft will be much more environmentally friendly than current airliners.

Visiting the air show yesterday, business minister Vince Cable, who once held a private pilot licence, said he was thrilled by the Airbus A380. And he promised to do more to support the firm which employs more than 6,000 people at its wing-making plant at Broughton, near Chester.

“It is a magnificent aircraft,” he said.

“It’s big but it’s the greenest plane ever of its scale, and I’m proud that 40% of it is UK-made.

“Wings designed and made by Airbus at Broughton, engines made by Rolls-Royce – in all, 400 UK companies supply equipment for A380. It is a great success story.

“Even through the recession, where a great many industries suffered, aerospace has supported 250,000 jobs.

“It’s also important to note the sector is a huge regional employer.

“After a decade in which too much growth in the UK slid inexorably into the South East, our strengths at Broughton and Derby (Rolls-Royce) are valuable regional sources of strength and growth.”