Hybrid Air Vehicles — a British aircraft manufacturer — launched the maiden flight of its new flagship vessel, the Airlander 10.
The voyage took place on Wednesday in the skies of the UK, 45 miles north of London. The company showcased the world’s largest aircraft, which is a helium-powered combination of a blimp, helicopter and airplane.
It is 302-feet long, it has 1.3 million cubic feet of helium inside, and it can reach an altitude of 16,000 feet, as well as speeds of 90 mph. Additionally, the Hybrid Air Vehicles creation can stay in the air for five days straight.
While hundreds of bystanders watched, the Airlander 10 met all of its test objectives including launching safely, rounding a circuit and landing.
The craft was maneuvered by two pilots–Chief Test Pilot Dave Burns said the vessel “flew wonderfully. I’m really excited about getting it airborne. It flew like a dream.”
Hybrid Air Vehicles said the Airlander 10 can be used for surveillance, communication and for humanitarian aid delivery services.
Check out the video of the flight, which was uploaded on YouTube by the company:
“Medal winning performance? First flight of world’s largest aircraft today created by British company #teamgb,” tweeted the company.
The flight was initially intended for Sunday, but it was delayed due to technical issues.
Hybrid Air Vehicles has been working on the vessel since 2007.
