Ecological Comparison of Airships to Other Types of Transport

Abstract

Airships are lighter-than-air vehicles that rely on buoyant gases like helium or hydrogen to generate lift, which is achieved through static buoyancy, unlike aircraft that use aerodynamic lifts. In comparison to traditional modes of transport, such as trucks, trains, and aircraft, airships have the potential to fill niche roles in freight logistics, particularly in regions with congested or underdeveloped infrastructure. In this study, a hybrid airship, named Dynalifter, is compared to traditional transport modes such as rail, electric trains, aircraft, and airships. Its large transport capacity over long distances, combined with its ability to land on smaller airfields, positions it as a complement to existing modes of transportation, particularly for oversized or remote cargo deliveries. It offers unique advantages in operational flexibility, reduced infrastructure requirements, and suitability for cargo transport. The analysis shows that although airship emissions are not the most environmentally friendly in terms of emissions per ton-kilometer, they offer significant flexibility in operational conditions and cargo capacity, making them a viable option for specific types of cargo. Further research into hydrogen propulsion and advances in airship technology could improve their environmental performance, potentially making them a competitive alternative for low-emission cargo transportation.