Airships of the First World War — the weapons of the sky in 1914

In the early 20th century, humanity truly took to the sky for the first time. But instead of peace and discovery, the air became the arena of a new war—the First World War. Among the first “lords of the skies” were not airplanes, but giant flying machines—airships. They terrified civilians, conducted reconnaissance over the trenches, and symbolized technological superiority. How did airships become the weapons of the sky in 1914—and why was their era so short?

When the First World War broke out in 1914, airships were no longer a curiosity. Developed at the end of the 19th century, they were already used actively for civilian and military purposes. It was the global conflict, however, that brought broad combat deployment of airships in the First World War. Germany, with cutting-edge technology in this field, was the first to use them not only for reconnaissance but also for bombing.

The primary tasks of airships during the war were reconnaissance missions and strategic bombing. Thanks to their endurance aloft and their ability to climb to great heights, airships were ideal for observing enemy troop movements and adjusting artillery fire. They were later employed in offensive roles—striking rear-area cities, ports, and rail junctions.

The German airship of the First World War became a true symbol of Germany’s technological superiority. The designs of Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin stood out in particular—his name became a byword for such craft. Zeppelin-type airships reached lengths of up to 160 meters, speeds of up to 85 km/h, and carried up to 2 tons of bombs. They were regarded as “invincible ships of the air”—until effective air defenses appeared.

A 1914 airship was a giant aerostat with a rigid frame, covered in fabric and filled with hydrogen. Hydrogen provided lift but made the craft extremely vulnerable—even the slightest spark could cause catastrophe. Control was achieved with rudders and engines mounted along the sides of the hull. A crew could number up to 20, including pilots, gunners, and mechanics.

Although airships played a notable role at the start of the First World War, by 1917–1918 their significance had fallen sharply. The reasons were straightforward: airplanes had become faster, more maneuverable, and safer. They were not deterred by anti-aircraft fire, could fly in almost any weather, and did not explode from a single bullet. Airships proved too slow, vulnerable, and expensive to operate. After the war, their military use virtually disappeared.

The age of airships did not end—it simply awaited its time. Today, thanks to modern materials, environmentally friendly lifting gases (such as helium), and digital control systems, airships are once again emerging as a promising mode of transport—for cargo, observation, tourism, and even scientific research.

The New Generation Airships' project brings together engineers, historians, enthusiasts, and investors to revive the idea of safe, quiet, and environmentally friendly flight. We believe the future belongs to peaceful skies, not to roads.

Join us—and together we will usher in a new era of airship-building! 🛫