Airbus say by 2050, they want planes to flock together on busy routes, saving money by flying in huge 'V' formations.

The company's latest prediction on the future of travel is a novel and potentially money saving tactic, requiring more changes to air traffic control laws than aircraft technology.

The company's engineering chief Charles Champion says the idea - which mimicks migrating birds - will reduce fuel consumption: "When you're behind other aircraft you actually save ten to fifteen percent fuel.

"So it really works and in fact the birds put that forward in order to minimize the energy to fly long distances so it's all about actually bio-mimicary and taking the lessons learned from nature."

Alongside the formations, Airbus say by 2050 improved engine technologies and flight cielings will see flight times cut by about 13 minutes, saving yet more fuel.

At airports, the company predicts planes will take off much more steeply, meaning quicker turnarounds, less noise on the ground and shorter runways.

Aviation experts have welcomed the ideas, but say they will need a willing hand from governments to get off the ground. Analyst Howard Wheeldon said: "It isn't just the aircraft, it isn't just the fantastic engine technology, it is also the operation of the airlines.

"It's governments, it's regulation, it's looking at themselves how they can do things better, and allow aircraft to get into airports, in airports and through airports a lot faster."