The hybrid airship Airlander 10 has sustained damage on landing during today's flight from Cardington, England.
The hybrid airship Airlander 10 has sustained damage on landing during today's flight from Cardington, England.
The incident happened during second flight of the airship, which completed first flight on August 17.
The prototype undertook its second test flight and flew for 100 minutes, completing all the planned tasks before returning to Cardington to land.
While attempting landing, the airship crash landed, damaging the front flight deck.
Manufacturer Hybrid Air Vehicles in a statement said the damage was not caused mid-air or due to the telegraph pole and both pilots and the ground crew are safe.
The aircraft is secured and stable at its normal mooring location, the statement added.
The helium filled blimp is intended for cargo transport, surveillance and sightseeing roles. It was originally developed for U.S. Army's surveillance requirement which was cancelled in 2013. The airship was brought back and redesigned by HAV for the new civilian roles.Surprised this hasn't had more views . . . #Airlanderhttps://t.co/LWVFdFkxUb— Ashley Booker (@AshleyLBooker) August 24, 2016
At 302 ft, the Airlander is the longest and largest aircraft in the world. It is powered by four thrust vectorable engines, two each in the aft and forward section.
