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The US LTA Corporation Model 138S Airship represents over 7 years of design and certification effort culminating inthe issuance of Type Certificate AS2NM in July of 1990. At 160' in length and amassing a size of 138,000 cu. ft. in volume, it is one of the largest certified airships commercially available.  For detail   specifications consult theSPECIFICATIONSBOOKLET.

The airship design philosophy sought to incorporate technical innovations that improve pilot performance and lower operating costs. The control surfaces are rigged in an inverted "Y" configuration which allow for steep take-offs and flared landings. These combination elevator / rudder or "ruddervators" are coupled to a hydraulic linkage and controlled by a single stick (no pedals or wheels) and require controleffort similar to today'sfly by wire systems except with the advantageof a mechanical rather thanelectronic back-up. This single pilot systemallows for ease of operations and minimal fatigue over long duration flights.

The airship envelope comprises strong and lightweight laminate materials including "Tedlar" and are manufactured to extremely high standards for fit, durability and Helium permeability.These paintable surfaces are expected to maintain an operational life span of 10years. The pressure systems utilize a large twin ballonet designfor added trim control and maximum envelope pressure height (9000' rating).The paintable surface measures 160' in length and ruddervators and controlcar may alsobe utilized in painting schemes.

Propulsion is provided by the Textron Lycoming IO-540-K2A5 (a derivative of the K1A5 in use on the Piper Cherokee 6).Itis a 300 hp fuel injected 6 cylinder engine which when mated to theHartzell3 bladed, reversible pitch, pusher style prop produces tremendous thrust ontake-off, a quiet cruise and added braking and control duringlandings. The single engine design is based on a proven premise of safety and reliability that airships maintain due to the redundant nature of the lifting gas in theevent of engine failure. It yields excellent horsepowerper pound and a significantreduction in maintenance and overhaul costs. Lycoming Engines are renowned the world over for their performance and partsavailability. With a 2,000 hour TBO they outperform the maintenance cycles of other airships.

The control car or "gondola" is configure for 6 passenger accommodations including pilot. The current configuration allows for comfortable viewing through large windows that allow for a very pleasurable and unforgettable experience. There are twin exit doors foremergencies and stowage for marine safety equipment. The interior flooring and related railings allow for easy installation of equipment and sensor rack while the composite shell and handrail are also suitable for attachmentof sensor payloads. Altogether this permits the Model 138S to be a very versatile platform.

Performance characteristics are impressive. The airship can be landed with a crew of 10 ground handlers plus Crew Chief. Cruising speed is 45 while top speed is 55 mph. The airship is capable of up to 400 mile range over 16 hours and extra fuel bladders could beadded to extend range or shorten travel time. The airship has a disposable payload of 3,000 lbs with capacity to take-off heavy and land light. The payload capacity sets the Model 138S apart from other airships as it permits both nightsign and passenger operations over a reasonable operational range.

All in all the Model 138S represents "user friendly" characteristics combined with what our pilots call a "work horse" construction to benefit operations in the categories of performance, safety, maintenance and flight costs.

If you have any questions or comments contact us and we would be happy to respond.

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