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IPFS News Link • Transportation: Air Travel

This European airline just ordered a fleet of airships

• https://edition.cnn.com by Julia Buckley

Air Nostrum, which operates flights under the Iberia Regional umbrella from its Valencia base, has ordered 10 Airlander 10 aircraft, with delivery scheduled for 2026.

Previously, its manufacturers had predicted the aircraft -- which was unveiled in 2016 -- would be in service by 2025.

Made by UK-based Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), the hybrid airships could cut emissions by 90%, according to the company.

Held aloft by helium and powered electricity, they will seat 100 passengers, and typically fly 300-400 kilometers (186-249 miles), according to the manufacturer. Don't expect a lightning-fast flight, however -- the maximum speed will be 80 mph (129 kph).

The deal follows six months of "rigorous studies and modeling" of internal Spanish routes, according to the manufacturer.


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