A small (trip) flight into history
In 1783, when the first hot air balloon of the Montgolfier brothers took off, the world also saw the first design of a steerable airship. However, it has so far remained theoretical, as no one has yet built a suitable engine for production. It wasn't until 1852 that Henri Giffard's first working airship took to the air. It was powered by a steam engine and flew only in still air. In 1884, an electric motor followed, which could cope with light winds.
A few years later, the electric motor was replaced by an internal combustion engine, but unfortunately this burned not only the fuel but also the whole airship. The greatest development was the work of Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin, after whom airships are still named today.
The development of this means of transport had many dead ends. One of the most fundamental errors was the filling of the airship with highly flammable hydrogen. You know what happened to the famous Hindenburg airship. Although it seemed to be the end of this aerial craft, it is not. In recent years it has enjoyed a renaissance and you can take a ride. Don't worry, there's no danger of fire. Instead of hydrogen, non-flammable helium is used.
How do you actually drive it?
There's a certain resemblance to hot air balloons. But that's where it ends. While a balloon takes off because of the hot air the pilot fills it with, an airship is inflated with helium and propelled forward by its engine. The balloon only goes where the wind takes it. The balloon, on the other hand, is fully steerable and can get you where you need to go at 20-30 km/h.
The views of the surroundings and the pilot's control
If you want to experience an airship flight for yourself, we have good news. It's possible in the Czech Republic, too, and it's exclusive to Adrop, which offers a 30-minute flight on an airship that's 41 metres long and a full 14 metres in diameter.
There are 4 seats in the cockpit, 1 of them occupied by the pilot, who can see directly into the controls. From the cockpit you also get a panoramic view of the countryside and the city. So far the airship has been flown in Brno and in Prague over Karlštejn. There is definitely something to see!
Can I fly at any time?
If you want to enjoy a really safe flight, follow the instructions which advise you to fly just after sunrise or a few hours before sunset. This is when the thermal flow is calmest and the airship is perfectly controllable. The weather outside must also be reasonable; in a gale or downpour you'd better find another programme. Sometimes you have to wait a bit, but again you will enjoy absolutely photogenic views thanks to this.
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Welcome to aerialists
As with a sightseeing balloon flight, the traditional baptism and toast await the flyer after landing. And what does that mean for you? It means you'll always be a member of the aerobatic family and take home a noble title.
Are you excited about this scenic flight? Don't delay, we're offering it at an introductory price until 18 June 2022!
