On the potential of lighter-than-air and hybrid aircraft for the Australian civil sector

A brief comparison between traditional non-rigid airships and hybrid-lifting-body-type, lighter-than-aircraft of similar size is presented. Mass breakdown is discussed. Brief comments are made on ground handling, transport efficiency and life-cycle costs. A mission example presented is intended to match Australian geographic parameters. Although further study is needed to verify the findings presented, it is suggested that in some niche applications hybrid aircraft could offer useful advantages/gains within the Australian civil sector.