One would think with the advent of large jet engines and additional thrust this might be a more workable idea today, more than years ago..
Of course you have to have a clear need for these to be cost effective. Up North above the Artic Circle I am sure that need exists. Perhaps we shall see this idea again in the future. With modern materials, met bet is we will.. Some one just has to get behind it with big $$$..
With sooo many vehicles having track systems adopted to them, I think the current epidemic of acceptance, the superiority of tracks vrs. tires has truly illustrated that point very well indeed..
There is an epidemic of tracked farm tractors across the landscape in my part of the planet. I feel like a pioneer of this, since I have used them for over 20 years now. Nothing works as well in my application in Agriculture...
It is probably time some one did so with large airplanes once again.
Regards, Kirk