The Return of the Airship

Photo by Biblioteca Valenciana Nicolau Primitiu on Unsplash

A Spanish airline has bought 10 Airlander airships, which will be built in South Yorkshire

The hybrid aircraft, which generate lift from both aerodynamics and helium (and are also hybrid in other ways, namely diesel-electric), will be trialed on short domestic routes in Spain. While slower than jets, they produce 90% less emissions. Future versions of the Airlander will be electrically powered. The commercial version seats 100 people.

(The name appears to deliberately invoke the Islander and Trislander workhorse short haul aircraft).

On top of that, the Airlander does not need a runway. Because it is hybrid, it also doesn’t need airship infrastructure, namely a mooring mast. It can take off or land anywhere it can fit…including on water. The 10 craft are expected to enter service in 2026 and I’m tempted to plan a trip to Spain! Airlander also offers a boutique 10 seater version designed for use as a resort shuttle and for air cruises.

Are Airships Really Coming Back?

The answer may be yes, even as the Goodyear blimp vanishes (it’s been replaced by drones, which provide much more versatile aerial coverage of sporting events).

Here’s some evidence:

1. The government of Quebec is offering 30 million Canadian to a French company with…