U.S. company Lockheed Martin is reporting it’s received its first letter of intent from Straightline Aviation to purchase up to 12 of its Hybrid Airships with a potential value of $480 million.
“We are delighted to be first in line with this magnificent aircraft that is going to dramatically change the way cargo is moved around the world,” said Mike Kendrick, SLA co-founder and chief executive officer, in a news release.
“The clear-cut economic and environmental advantages of these Hybrids are attracting vast amounts of attention from a wide range of potential end users.”
Airships have been suggested as a viable alternative to hauling large amounts of cargo, delivering supplies like building materials, heating fuel, groceries, and medical supplies to remote and First Nations communities.
They’ve also been proposed as a cost-effective mode of transport for the mining industry to bring workers in and out of work sites, deliver supplies, and haul out ore.
Some have even alluded to applications for tourism in remote regions.
The new generation of dirigibles is propelled by helium, and does not need ground support or expensive infrastructure like runways for takeoff or landing. They are considered more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than traditional alternatives like trucks or airplanes.
