


It's been long enough since the Hindenburg disaster for people to get comfortable with the idea of traveling around in gigantic blimps, apparently. And in the time since that famous fiery crash, blimp technology has made some pretty sizable advancements. The proof? The Aeroscraft ML866.
Featuring over 5,000 square feet of interior cabin space, it offers multiple configurations, including as an "airborne business center" with an automated office, videoconferencing facility, conference center, and more. Yes, I can picture it now. "Yes, let's meet on that proposed merger next week. Meet me on my futuristic airship." Nothing says intimidation like working from a giant blimp.
The ML866 can take off vertically like a helicopter, making it perfect for those megarich who don't want to mess with a runway but still want a way to travel via air without dealing with the general public. Hit the jump to see another pic of the blimp which is sure to not catch fire in midair.

By Isotek at 12:02 AM ON 08/10/07
I've always thought we should be using more blimps here in the US. There is something almost romantic about them, but the practical abilities also present a nice set of features that I feel are vastly overlooked. I wonder if this is why one is being showcased in the late to come to the screen film "Southland Tales". That is so not a plug by the way.
By danmac at 8:41 AM ON 08/10/07
Discounting the 'Hindenburg' disaster, the resistance to travel by blimp is its lack of speed. If marketed as a leisurely luxurious way to travel - like a cruise ship - there may be a clientel. As competition to Boeing's 767 - not going to happen.
By GerardManley at 11:25 AM ON 08/16/07
Wow, in the future, instead of going to work, your work will come to you. No, more sleeping in! Gulp!
By akujaj at 1:53 PM ON 08/16/07
I wasn't thinking so much of the Hindenburg as much as the ill-fated board meeting of rich Zorn cronies on a blimp in "View to A Kill". Christopher Walken has shown us the way again!
But seriously, think of the cost savings of showing out-of-town visitors the whole city, having the meeting catered and having a big enough conference room?
By SkagenGirl at 5:01 PM ON 08/16/07
Can anyone say Dr. Who?
By Sandokan at 11:45 AM ON 08/21/07
You are all forgetting something, thou slow, the blimps have the highest safety and survival record for any kind of aircraft... now there's something to consider!!
By eric at 5:50 AM ON 09/03/08
I have seen in popular sience mag that they can make them much bigger, perfect for public transport think of hundreds of people getting on in the suberbs and flown in to the heart of the city. It is about time we start using the skys for local transportation
eric:
I have seen in popular sience mag that they can make them much bigger, perfect for public transport think of hundre...More »