UNITED KINGDOM (Web Desk) – The world’s largest aircraft named “Air Lander”took to the skies for a successful maiden voyage, mesmerizing the onlookers.
Air Lander loomed overhead at Cardington airfield in Bedfordshire as the sun started to set on Wednesday evening. Curious locals flocked in a large number to catch a glimpse of the giant machine.
Developed by Hybrid Air Vehicles, the Airlander is a hybrid of blimp, helicopter and airplane. Nicknamed the “flying bum” because of its bulbous front end.
During the first 19 minutes flight, airship reached a maximum speed of 35 knots and climbed to 500 feet.
Touted as a way to provide low-carbon aviation, the Airlander is designed to use less fuel than a plane, but carry heavier loads than conventional airships Its developer says it can reach 16,000 feet, travel at up to 90 mph and stay aloft for up to two weeks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgqMAB2Hj4M
The aircraft was initially developed for the U.S. military, which planned to use it for surveillance in Afghanistan. The U.S. blimp program was scrapped in 2013 and since then Hybrid Air Vehicles, a small British aviation firm that dreams of ushering in a new era for airships, has sought funding from government agencies and individual donors, Fox News reported.
