TPO 66

The reading states that the application of airships has been decreased since the 1940s and there are a number of advantages in using them instead of airplanes and helicopters. The professor, however, specifies that there are several problems in using airships and its application is unlikely in the near future.

First, based on the reading, airships are capable of vertical lift and in comparison to airplanes and helicopters that use engines for vertical lift and horizontal movement, they only need fuel for horizontal movement made it more economical. In contrast, the lecturer explains that airships contain gases such as hydrogen and helium. Hydrogen is extremely flammable and in the past, a couple of accidents happened that it got fired. Moreover, helium is difficult to obtain and cannot be located easily and because of that, it is very expensive. Hence, the argument that airships are cheaper is not accurate.

Second, according to the reading, airships can be used in every environment since they do not need a large area for takeoff and landing. Also, in comparison to helicopters, they can carry very heavy loads. Nevertheless, the professor says airships can come down and pick loads such as logs; however, they can not stay steady, and that is their problem. One severe wind can easily blow airships and damage them.

Third, the reading asserts that airships can be used to carry important equipment since they can rise high without needing a great time and with a cost lower than satellites. On the contrary, the professor explains that airships only can go up a specific amount above the surface, and also, there are strong winds that will compel them to use all their fuel to be steady. Therefore, after that, they have to come back and refuel.