Sure but hear me out:

1) put lithium-ion batteries in the outer wings

2) Put two or three electric turbofans in each wing

3) slather the upper surfaces in solar

4) Aim for for 40k feet cruise, pressurize for rigidity

Let's say that by doing that, you can decrease your energy burn by 50% over conventional travel. Let's further say that doing so at 250kts instead of 500 knocks you down by another 50%. My flight cost is now 1/4 what it is otherwise - If I give people three times the space and double the creature comfort but I charge them the same amount, what do the economics look like? Does 5 hours above the weather in a barcalounger with internet and a Starbuck's kiosk in the middle look more attractive than 2 1/2 hours in a sardine can?

Ask anybody if they could (safely) travel by Zeppelin and watch their eyes light up. The idea of not spending a day in a crowded subway car in the sky is super-appealing. The only outfit that really made the 380 work was Emirates, who basically turned the damn things into airborne cruise ships.

This here k-shaped recovery is kicking a lot of money at the rich. the rich are already diving hard into charter and fractional. Try and tell me that people wouldn't pay double to take Virgin Sail NY-London in 12 hours instead of 6 if it's gonna be comfy and luxe.