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It’s time to rethink the skies
If there’s one thing we all definitely took for granted before the pandemic, it’s the opportunity to effortlessly leap from continent to continent.
After all, despite how much we long to travel the world—especially after being stuck inside our homes for roughly two years—we’re still in the midst of a climate emergency. The devastating impact of flying on the environment is a concern that must be tackled. According to International Air Transport Association (IATA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), more than 16 million flights took off in 2020 around the world. Imagine how much higher that number was prior to the pandemic.
Enter Hybrid Air Vehicles. With a vision to offer the future of carbon-neutral aviation, the company is aiming to reduce the carbon footprint of commercial flights by 90 percent with eco-friendly airships. The undeniably butt-shaped, 100-seater, hybrid-electric Airlander 10 prototype was first developed over a decade ago—but after years of investigating materials and technologies and fine-tuning the aircraft, the manufacturers are planning an initial production run in 2025. They’ve also announced a number of routes they hope to offer in the same year.
Photo: Courtesy of Hybrid Air Vehicles
Photo: Courtesy of Hybrid Air Vehicles
HAV has estimated that, for a five-hour flight between central Liverpool and central Belfast, the emissions per passenger will total just 4.75kg, compared to 67.75kg for a traditional aircraft. Other planned routes include Oslo to Stockholm, Barcelona to Palma, and Seattle to Vancouver.
What we can already tell is that a journey on the Airlander 10 will be comfortable, leisurely, and pleasant. From floor-to-ceiling windows to deluxe seats, an abundance of natural light, and stunning views of the world, if the launch of this incredible airship is successful within a few years (fingers crossed), we’ll all be able to travel without the climate guilt.
Photo: Courtesy of Hybrid Air Vehicles
