Quote:
Originally Posted by tomjen  A billion on the other hand maybe enough to jumpstart a replacement for the Air industri - given how much it pollutes and how much I hate flying (small seats, insane regulations, etc) - I would spend the money starting a company flying zeppelins (with hellium, and possibly a more modern design) across the atlantic ocean.
The only problem is that it takes 2 days versus 8-12 hours for a plane. I am hoping too make it up with more luxury (it should be doable because it is a lot less expensive to lift a ton in a zeppelin than an airplane) - I hope eventually to drastically reduce the use of airplains for personal transport.
But the dream doesnt stop here - I could use the same to transport goods faster (and properly not much more expensive) than a ship. |
Have you read about the groups (Aeroscraft and Dynalifter) who are currently working on this?
The Flying Luxury Hotel - Popular Science
"The craft would have a range of several thousand miles and, with an estimated top speed of 174 mph, could traverse the continental U.S. in about 18 hours. During the flight, passengers would peer at national landmarks just 8,000 feet below or, if they weren't captivated by the view, the cavernous interior would easily accommodate such amenities as luxury staterooms, restaurants, even a casino."
Aeroscraft Video
The videos really make me want one for a primary home.
Welcome to Worldwide Aeros Corporation! ***Welcome to Dynalifter.com!*** Herald Star Online
"Without the need for a ground crew, Dynalifter saves money compared with operating a blimp or other kind of airship. And with its lifting capability and speed advantage over ships, (a Transatlantic voyage would take about 32 hours), Martin and Rist see Dynalifter filling an untapped middle ground in the shipping of goods around the globe."