‘It’s a net zero cargo solution’: could Victoria become home to an airship renaissance?

French startup hoping to develop Ballarat manufacturing hub says its dirigibles will transport freight too cumbersome for road

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They’re huge, can float through the air, and are synonymous with one of history’s most notorious transport disasters – but airships could be set for a cargo-oriented, green renaissance.

French startup Flying Whales has a vision to begin manufacturing its airships – which instead of the hydrogen-filled Hindenburg, will rely on 180,000 cubic metres of helium – by 2025, with an eye to gaining regulatory certification to begin operating in skies by the end of 2027.

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