A new addition to the realm of eco-tourism has emerged with the introduction of the Airlander 10, affectionately dubbed “The Flying Bum,” by French eco-tourism company Grands Espaces.
Developed by the UK-based Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), the Airlander 10 combines Zeppelin technology with modern innovations, utilizing helium and electricity to stay airborne. Since its inception in 2007, the Airlander 10 has been lauded for its promise of reduced emissions, fuel consumption, noise, and operational costs, positioning it as a pioneer in zero-carbon aviation.
With its adaptable payload system, the Airlander 10 can be configured for various purposes, ranging from airborne dining rooms to surveillance centers, or as envisioned by Grands Espaces, for experiential travel to remote and undiscovered destinations.
Grands Espaces, founded by polar explorer Christian Kempf, aims to offer environmentally conscious flights to breathtaking locations, including the Arctic. With the Airlander 10’s ability to take off and land from virtually any flat surface, including water and ice, travelers will have access to destinations previously unreachable by traditional aircraft. Grands Espaces anticipates offering flights to customers by 2028.
For HAV, the partnership with Grands Espaces signifies a significant milestone in expanding its clientele. Additionally, HAV has collaborated with BAE Systems, Britain’s largest defense company, to explore the deployment of the Airlander 10 in defense and security operations.
If successful, the Airlander 10, with its distinctive bulbous rear, will become a familiar sight in the skies, revolutionizing eco-friendly travel and opening up new possibilities for sustainable tourism.
The Airlander 10, originally known as the HAV 304, represents a unique hybrid airship crafted by Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), integrating a helium airship structure with additional lift and tail components.
- The Airlander 10, nicknamed “The Flying Bum,” has been introduced by French eco-tourism company Grands Espaces.
- Developed by UK-based Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), this climate-conscious craft combines Zeppelin technology with modern innovations, utilizing helium and electricity for flight.
- The Airlander 10 promises lower emissions, fuel consumption, noise, and operational costs compared to traditional aircraft.
- Its adaptable payload system allows for various configurations, including dining rooms, surveillance centers, and experiential travel ventures.
- The aircraft is capable of taking off and landing from virtually any flat surface, including water and ice, enabling access to remote destinations.
- Founded by polar explorer Christian Kempf, Grands Espaces aims to offer environmentally conscious flights to spectacular locations, including the Arctic.
- The partnership with HAV aligns with Grands Espaces’ commitment to providing minimal impact flights and exploring hard-to-reach destinations.
