"And that is why much effort is being put into developing AFCI's (hybrid CB's called arc-fault circuit interrupters). But don't expect to see those anytime soon."
Sounds much like what was recently fitted to one of our 747-400's (on an trial/experimental basis). They are currently operating in tandem with some of the regular CB's. We are requested to check them on every transit until told otherwise.
Regards.
Q.