It is actually a great idea, and I think back during the Tanaka administration, the idea of player run airships was actually brought up as coming content. I'd either be ok with player airships, or Company airships (when players will get companies)

They even allow for content such as islands or places unreachable in mountains to be traveled to and opens up a lot of things.

I really wish they'd do them in companies in one way or another, so much room for creativity in companies if they come to fruition! I have a lot of players ideas here
http://forum.square-enix.com/ffxiv/t...-free-to-share