Aircraft and airship — hybrid airship technologies

In an era of rapid technological progress, aviation continues to evolve. Classic solutions are being replaced by innovative hybrids that combine the best qualities of different aircraft types. One of the most promising areas is hybrid airships—unique aircraft that unite the buoyant lift of a light gas with the aerodynamic capabilities of an airplane. These developments open new horizons for cargo transport, patrol missions, tourism, and even operating in hard-to-reach regions.

A hybrid airship is an aircraft that combines the operating principles of a traditional airship and an airplane. Unlike classic airships that rely solely on the lift generated by helium or another light gas, a hybrid also uses aerodynamic lift produced during forward motion. This is achieved through a special hull shape, wings, or thrust vectoring.

The idea of an airship hybrid (airship + airplane) is not new, but today—thanks to advances in materials, control systems, and energy-efficient engines—it is becoming a practical reality. Such vehicles are especially in demand where conventional aviation runs into limitations: in the Arctic, mountainous regions, jungles, or when delivering oversized cargo to places without infrastructure. A hybrid airship can take off and land vertically without requiring a runway, while carrying dozens of tons of cargo with minimal fuel consumption.

One of the key features of many modern hybrid models is that the airship has wings. These wings do not always resemble aircraft wings—sometimes they are integrated into the hull or made as lifting surfaces along the sides. Their role is to generate additional lift at speed, allowing the vehicle to carry more weight and reach higher speeds than a classic airship.

For example, the British company Hybrid Air Vehicles has developed the Airlander 10, whose hull also serves as a lifting surface. This winged airship can reach speeds of up to 148 km/h while remaining remarkably efficient: its fuel consumption is 75% lower than that of a comparable airplane. Thanks to the combination of aerostatic and aerodynamic lift, such vehicles can stay aloft for several days, making them ideal for monitoring, communications, or deliveries.

Engineers are not stopping there. Among the boldest concepts is the amphibious airship, able not only to fly but also to float. Such vehicles can be used for rescue operations, scientific expeditions, or even as mobile research stations over the ocean. Their hull is sealed, and the lower section is designed for water landings, making them versatile where ground infrastructure is lacking.

There are also other related aircraft—airships that incorporate elements of multirotors, ground-effect craft, or even drones. Some projects propose placing solar panels on the envelope to recharge electric motors, making flights virtually zero-emission. Such solutions are especially relevant in the context of the global transition to “green” technologies.

Hybrid airships offer a number of clear advantages:

Fuel efficiency: minimal fuel consumption thanks to the lift provided by the gas.

Payload capacity: the ability to carry dozens—and in the future, hundreds—of tons.

Endurance: the ability to fly for extended periods without refueling.

Environmental friendliness: low noise and emissions, especially in electric versions.

Accessibility: they do not require airports and can operate in remote regions.

Experts predict that by 2030 hybrid airships will become an important part of logistics and transport infrastructure, especially as demand grows for sustainable, flexible solutions. They can carry equipment for Arctic construction, deliver humanitarian aid after disasters, or serve as communications platforms in areas with no coverage.

If future technologies inspire you and you want to be part of a breakthrough in aviation, join the “New Generation Airships'” project! We bring together engineers, investors, and enthusiasts to create the air transport of tomorrow—safe, environmentally friendly, and accessible to everyone. Together, we will take the skies to new heights!