Bored Blimp-Makers Switch Back To Hydrogen

Story by Logan Thompson 

| Published Apr 13, 2010

“LTA 9-1-3 cleared for takeoff.”

“LTA 9-1-3 cleared to land.”

That is what air traffic controllers have been hearing nearly every time a lighter-than-air (LTA) craft, or “blimp,” has gone into the air since the famous German blimp tragedy of 1937. And they are tired of it.

“The traffic guys are bored. We’re bored. Everybody is,” said blimp manufacturer, Ned Hinburg.

After the 1937 disaster that claimed 40 lives, non-flammable helium took the place of hydrogen as the gas of choice to provide lift. This has led to vastly improved safety for the aircraft, but after some intense lobbying for more "fireworks," blimp manufacturers are making the switch back to hydrogen.

“Sure one or two will crash every once in a while,” Hinburg said, “but a blimp crash without fire is like a volleyball game without spandex.”

The policy will take effect July 1, 2010 in time for Independence Day.