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Old August 18th 16, 05:48 AM posted to alt.binaries.pictures.aviation
Miloch
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Default World's Largest Aircraft Takes Off for the First Time, Still Looks Like a Butt - Airlander 10.jpg ...

http://gizmodo.com/worlds-largest-ai...e-s-1785420329

The Airlander 10—also known as the world’s largest aircraft, better known as a
giant, ass-shaped vessel—took off for the first time today.

The “flying bum,” as it’s apparently known, was supposed to take its maiden
voyage on Sunday, but the flight was postponed due to “a slight technical
issue.” The aircraft’s maker, Hybrid Air Vehicles, didn’t say on Sunday when the
flight would happen, but luckily for ass and aircraft enthusiasts everywhere, it
finally took off from Cardington airfield near London.

The flight itself wasn’t long—just half an hour, according to the AP—but
apparently drew a crowd of hundreds. The 302-foot aircraft combines elements of
“fixed wing aircraft and helicopters with lighter-than-air technology,”
resulting in a Frankenstein-esque behemoth that its creators say can stay in the
air for over two weeks unmanned.

The AP says the Airlander 10 was originally created for the US military, which
wanted to use it “for surveillance in Afghanistan,” but the plan was axed in
2013. (It’s hard to miss a giant butt.)

Unlike other notable aircrafts—like, say, the Hindenburg—the Airlander 10 uses
helium to stay afloat. According to Hybrid Air Vehicles, it can also withstand
“numerous bullet holes” and operate “in all weather conditions.” As Gizmodo
previously reported, it could theoretically be used for academic research,
transportation, or as a way to bring material to remote locations.

Also, never forget that it looks like a giant, floating ass.


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