Let's bring back the Dirigibles.

[c-rational]

Not sure how many DU's watch the show :Alex Ruins Everything" but I saw an episode recently on air travel. Not a pretty picture, especially after deregulation of the airlines by the FAA with a push from Ralph Nader. It lead to a demise of regional airports and an increase in hubs as well as a reduction in the number of airlines. Surprise, the free market does not always work as many costs are not factored into the equation properly. Use of dirigibles (much safer today) could be an answer to medium distance travel and have a much lower cost in terms of infrastructure investment needed. I tink I might enjoy such a trip.

[California_Republic]

1. The Hindenburg gave them a bad name

I saw a cool investigative show that indicated that dirigible had been painted with a very flammable substance


I’m with you bring them back

[NNadir]

2. Helium is obtained from dangerous natural gas wells.

Not a good idea.

[California_Republic]

3. Greenhouse gas, noted I change my vote for a thermal airship

Greenhouse gas, noted. I change my vote for a thermal airship

These can be filled with hot air but only about 30% as efficient

[c-rational]

4. So noted, I withdraw my suggestion. Thanks for the info.

[flotsam]

5. They have tremendous drawbacks...

I flew on a Virgins Lightships blimp in the early 90's. Weight and balance are critical. Passenger weights are totaled and 5 lb shot bags are added or removed. The ship needs a slight negative buoyancy on takeoff because fuel will burn off during flight and too much lift makes landing difficult. Sudden downpours can be catastrophic as the weight of the rain on the envelope exceeds 200 lbs. Max flight speed is about 40 knots meaning no flight into high winds. It was a ton of fun but nowhere near practical for scheduled passenger service.

[RainCaster]

6. They operate at much lower altitudes than airplanes

The earth will appear flatter, so I'm for it.

[Blue Owl]

7. Trump Airlines rises from bankruptcy!

https://goo.gl/images/iAFhB6

[defacto7]

8. Maybe little tiny ones. Or

ones that run on antimatter housed in thermite coated asbestos.

sorry