world's largest aircraft the 'flying bum' gets full-production go-ahead

the world’s largest aircraft is set to go into full production as UK-based hybrid air vehicles announces the retirement and success in final testing of its prototype $40m airlander 10. UK-based hybrid air vehicles caught attention when it unveiled the prototype, a lighter-than-air airship designed as an alternative to airplanes and helicopters. also known as the ‘flying bum’ for its resemblance to a butt, whilst the current prototype will not be rebuilt exactly a new generation of airships based on this design will go ahead.

images courtesy of HAV

constructed out of carbon fiber, kevlar, and mylar, and remaining aloft on inert helium, the craft was co-developed by HAV and northrop grumman for the US army’s experimental long endurance multi-intelligence vehicle (LEMV) program in 2010. when budget cuts left the project with a questionable future, hybrid air vehicles purchased the prototype and brought it to the UK. HAV’s intention was to convert it for the civilian marketplace, carrying cargo and passengers. HAV and british company design Q unveiled an interior concept for airlander 10 passenger cabin at farnborough air show last year.

‘the prototype served its purpose as the world’s first full-sized hybrid aircraft, providing us with the data we needed to move forward from prototype to production standard,’ stephen mcglennan, HAV’s chief executive told the BBC. the company says that it is now focusing on ‘bringing the first batch of production-standard, type-certified airlander 10 aircraft into service with customers.’ the company also plans a larger version — the airlander 50 — designed to carry a 50-ton payload.