The hybrid aircraft – small airship – helicopter called Airlander 10 managed to stay 20 minutes in the air today after months of preparation.
The airship, which was originally intended for the US army, but lost its funding in 2013 due to defense spending cuts. 
The unconventional shape of the Airlander 10 has a significantly lower carbon footprint than commercial aircraft. The aircraft is 90 meters long and is about 15 meters longer than the largest passenger aircraft in the world.
It has four engines and the shape is maintained by pressurized sun – about 38,000 cubic meters that inflate the hull which is made of carbon fibers.
In contrast to traditional aircraft, the Airlander 10 does not require a runway, and is capable of landing on snow, ice, and water. If it is crewed, the aircraft can remain in flight for up to five days.
If it is unmanned, the Airlander 10 can stay aloft for more than two weeks. Its ability to take off and land in places where other aircraft cannot, allows it to fly in some of the most inhospitable areas – such as an offshore oil‑drilling platform. It can also carry up to 10 tons of cargo.
The first successful (non‑military) test flight that the aircraft safely performed was carried out from Cardington Airfield, north of London.
