Going Up In A Cloud Of Smoke: A New Concept In Traveling…But Will It Fly?

There are many who are not fans of flying, and now those of us who prefer driving have yet another reason to not want to take to the friendly skies. But, it’s perhaps bad news for the health profession and (some of) those who used the smoke-free environment as an excuse for not traveling (at least not for long distances).

It seems a German “innovative” entrepreneur has an idea for a nostalgic airline that’s literally “smoking”.

The “posh” plane will allow not only smoking passengers, but will offer Cuban cigars and caviar served by designer clad attendants.

The 55-year-old former stockbroker who thought up the venture, he calls Smoker’s International Airways, or Smintair, plans on initially offering flights between his hometown of Duesseldorf and Germany.

He claims the focus will be on service, which includes not inconveniencing smokers, such as himself, during their confinement on long plane rides.

The cutting-edge entrepreneur goes on say that he plans on starting his venture this March with three leased Boeing Co. 747s, two which be used on regular flights, and one to be used as a back up. His vision is to ultimately bring back the “luxury” of days gone by.

TVs, DVDs, telephones and Internet access with be just a few of the other frills.

And, he plans on supplementing costs by offering luxury products in an extra lounge on the upper deck and also put to use the cargo hold.

Still, some officials express skepticism about the entrepreneur and his proposed plan, since they note he will (first) have to deal with the regulatory authorities in both countries and arrange for overflight among other things.

But, the “savvy” investor suggests getting his operating license is not as complicated as one may think.

He also invites non-smokers to fly with him noting that he would pay the added cost of a system to add outside air to the cabin air conditions. He even insists that they would not even be at risk for second hand smoke hazards, since it wouldn’t exist; the only thing that would be present would be a discernable smell, but adds that perfumes smell as well.

Cancer professionals however, disagree and point to statistics showing that over 3.000 people in Germany die annually as a result of passive smoking. And, they add that flight personnel would also be at incredible increased risk.

But, for now than plan for takeoff is still March.