Air Nostrum, Spain’s leading regional airline, announced today that it will become the first customer of the Airlander 10, an innovative sustainable airship currently being developed by UK-based Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV).
As reported through a press release, Air Nostrum’s partners will be linked to the project as part of an association to boost sustainable mobility solutions. Both companies signed an agreement for the airline to be the launch customer of the aircraft, which has not yet received its certification.
According to Hybrid Air Vehicles, the new airship will be a revolutionary means of transportation. It will offer a much lower fuel consumption compared to many current operating aircraft.
According to the manufacturer, it will enable a reduction of up to 90% of carbon dioxide emissions by 2025, based on the development of hybrid engines. In addition, the company will work to equip the model with an all-electric propulsion system by 2030 to enable zero-emission flights.
The Airlander 10 will provide a range of up to 4.000 nautical miles (7.408 kilometers) and will be able to fly at an altitude of up to 20.000 feet (6.096 meters). Depending on operating conditions, its maximum payload will be ten tons.
Air Nostrum highlighted the «versatility and sustainability» of the aircraft. On the other hand, it valued that, like other airships, it will be able to operate over a wide variety of flat surfaces. These qualities will make it an attractive option for different types and conditions of operation, including movements in towns without airport facilities and on islands.
Both companies expect the first Airlander 10 to be delivered in 2026. Air Nostrum plans to take delivery of up to ten units over the next five years, through a leasing arrangement.
«We explore all avenues presented to us to reduce our carbon footprint», said Carlos Bertomeu, President of Air Nostrum. «The Airlander 10 will drastically lower emissions and that is why we have reached this agreement with Hybrid Air Vehicles», he added.
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