Bridgnorth aviation operator takes flight with $50m airship order
Straightline Aviation has placed a $50m (£39.2m) hybrid airship order with a Lockheed Martin spin-out in a ‘defining moment’ for the business and the global logistics industry.
The Bridgnorth aviation operator and aerospace component manufacturer has secured the deal with AT² Aerospace for low-emission airships with long-range operations.
The Z1 hybrid airships will be used to transform cargo transport, humanitarian aid missions and disaster relief in hard-to-reach locations worldwide.
Delivery of the first Z1 hybrid airship is expected in 2028, with initial operational deployments planned for humanitarian and remote cargo missions in Brazil, Alaska and northern Canada.
With offices in Bridgnorth and Los Angeles, Straightline’s team is made up of a team of aviation experts with decades of experience covering airships, fixed-wing aviation, remote logistics and operations.
Mike Kendrick, Chairman and co-founder of Straightline Aviation said: “With decades of experience in airship operations, we understand exactly what it takes to deliver reliable, efficient and sustainable transport solutions. The Z1 hybrid airship is the culmination of years of innovation, and our team’s expertise ensures we can maximise its potential to meet our clients’ needs. Whether it’s remote logistics or humanitarian aid, this aircraft gives us an unprecedented capability to operate in areas where traditional aviation simply cannot.’“
Mark Dorey, CEO of Straightline Aviation said: “This is a defining moment for Straightline Aviation and the global logistics industry. The Z1 is a game-changer, offering a flexible, cost-efficient, sustainable solution for delivering goods and services to remote communities where traditional transport is impractical or environmentally disruptive.
“The Z1 has multiple applications across numerous regions of the world, including cargo delivery, oil, gas and mining operations support and, crucially, the delivery of humanitarian aid. Our partnership with AT² Aerospace combines unrivalled airship operations experience with extensive technical expertise and ensures we are at the forefront of this new era of aviation.”
Dr. Bob Boyd, CEO of AT² Aerospace said: “This is a seminal moment in sustainable aviation. Our hybrid airships will transform cargo transport by providing an environmentally responsible solution while maintaining operational efficiency. We are excited to partner with Straightline Aviation to deliver this landmark order.”
