Despite concerns over helium’s shortage and rising prices, operators and manufacturers of airships remain buoyant about the future. The Lockheed Martin Hybrid Airship (LMH-1) and Hybrid Air Vehicles’ (HAV) Airlander 10 are still some way from being operational, but progress is being made and interest growing for the helium-powered aircraft.
While Lockheed Martin continues to develop the LMH-1 at its Palmdale headquarters in California, Oregon-based Columbia Helicopters and French company Hybrid Air Freighters (HAF) recently announced a strategic partnership to operate a fleet of 12 hybrid airships.
The LMH-1 is 280ft long, 148ft wide, 78ft high and capable of transporting 21 tonnes and 19 passengers at up to 70mph, going 1,600 miles without refuelling. With the target being the cargo market, Lockheed Martin is excited by the LHM-1’s potential.
... to continue reading you must be subscribed
