Video: Flight Tests Continue for World’s Largest Aircraft
S. Himmelstein | November 18, 2017
Flight tests continue for world’s largest aircraft.The successful completion of its sixth test flight on November 17 also marked the start of a second test-flying phase for Airlander 10. Developed by Hybrid Air Vehicles (Bedford, UK), the world’s largest aircraft is now undergoing Airworthiness Release 2a evaluations.
This round of testing will see Airlander fly higher (up to 7,000 feet/2,133 m), faster (up to 50 knots/58 mph/93 km/h) and travel a distance of up to 75 nautical miles (86 miles/139 km) away from its airfield. The aircraft will also be allowed to undertake display and demonstration activity.
Modifications made in preparation for travelling at higher speeds include installation of a drag-reducing fairing between the cockpit and the underside of the hull.
Airlander 10 has no internal structure in the Airlander, and maintains its shape due to the pressure stabilization of the helium inside the hull and the use of Vectran material — a high-performance multifilament yarn spun from liquid crystal polymer — and carbon composites.
It is powered by four 325-hp (242-kW) turbocharged diesel engines, carries payloads of up to 10,000 kg (22,050 lb) and can stay aloft for five days at a time with a crew.
What's the point of it?
Does it have an intended purpose other than super size balloon flights?
Not really a secret spy vehicle is it?
A 747F carries 10 times the payload and goes about 10 times faster.
Looks like just another episode of Monty Python's Flying Circus.
A 747F will not land anywhere near where the AirLander can. Disaster relief? check!
Remote mining or oil recovery operations? check! Luxury tourism? check!
Loiter high over an area for days? check!
I do wonder about the so-called 5 day flight duration limitation, and what the reason for this is, could it be crew and passenger accommodation is only for 5 days? Or it is that she lifts off with 5 days worth of fuel.
I know helium was chosen due to safety reasons, but why wouldn't hydrogen do just as well? I think hydrogen molecule is larger than helium atom, and thus should not leak quite as fast through the same material.