Plans for a new fuel cell-powered vertical airship which could carry passengers in style were unveiled yesterday (February 3rd).

The 'Aircruise' concept, which was envisaged by SeymourPowell in partnership with Korean electronics firm Samsung, would be capable of travelling at 90mph at 30m in the air.

According to the developers, the vessel - which would use a fuel cell drawing power from 330,000 cubic metres of hydrogen - could revolutionise future luxury travel.

"It's a world cruise not limited to the ocean, offering instead the dream-like quality and absolute freedom of flight," said SeymourPowell design director Nick Talbot.

"The Aircruise concept questions whether the future of luxury travel should be based around space-constrained, resource-hungry and all too often stressful airline travel."

Initial designs of the 'clipper in the clouds' feature a bar and lounge zone, four duplex apartments, a penthouse and five smaller apartments, with solar panels providing additional power.

Furthermore, the 265m-tall craft would contain glass floors, allowing passengers to take in some impressive views as they travel.

Airships have been viewed unfavourably as a method of public transport since a Hindenburg model caught fire when landing in New Jersey in 1937, killing 36 people.

Sources:

Does the "clipper in the clouds" hold the key to the future of travel? (04/02/10)

New Design for a Fuel Cell Powered Air Cruiser Unveiled (04/02/10)

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