World’s longest aircraft takes up residence in Britain’s largest hangar

The Hybrid Air Vehicle, HAV304, has been named the longest aircraft ever developed and it’s just been unveiled in Britain’s Cardington aircraft hangar.

HAV304.

Even though the craft is long, it’s been constructed with an aerodynamic shape similar to a balloon so it’s capable of generating lift just like the wing of an airplane.
 

Britain’s Cardington aircraft hangar.

It was also designed to be heavier than air so there’s no fear of it lifting off the ground once it’s landed.

The 360-ft long HAV304 possesses characteristics of both an airship and an aircraft so its capabilities are versatile.

This version of the aircraft costs about $100 million, but designers won’t rest yet. They’re going to be working on an even bigger one that’s capable of carrying 50 tons at a time.

Next version is in the works.

The Hybrid Air Vehicle was designed to stay airborne for days at a time, handles extreme weather conditions, and can land on almost any flat surface. The air vehicle doesn’t even require a runway for takeoff.

The HAV304 is set to fly later this year and is 70% more environmentally friendly than a traditional cargo plane. The airship has potential uses in surveillance, communication, and aid delivery.