How Many Blimps Are There? | The Sun

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BLIMPS were a common appearance in the sky 100 years ago – but not anymore.

Why have they died out, and how many are there in the world now? Here’s all you need to know…

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Blimps have been around for more than 200 yearsCredit: Corbis

How many blimps are there in the world? 

In 2021 there are roughly 25 blimps still in existence and only half of them are still in use.

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So if you happen to see one floating above you, it’s a rare sight.

What exactly are blimps?

A blimp is a type of airship which relies on the pressure of lifting gas, like helium or hydrogen, to keep it in the air.

The first blimp was created in 1852 – and until 1937 they were used as a mode of transportation for fee paying passengers.

They were also used for surveillance purposes during World War II.

Nowadays they are mainly used for advertising.

Why are blimps no longer used?

The main reasons that blimps are no longer used is because of the huge cost it takes to build and run.

The ships need a large amount of helium – meaning one trip could cost £70,000.

And it takes over 400 hours of training for pilots to be prepared to drive a blimp.

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According to the Federal Aviation Administration, only 128 people in the the entirety of the United States are qualified to fly airships.

Another reason there are so few blimps these days is because of the invention of drones.

Blimps used to be used to capture images or footage from above – which can now be done with drones.

How much does a blimp cost?

The rough price for a large certified blimp is £1-2million.

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What are the most famous blimps?

  • Hindenburg
  • Graf Zeppelin
  • Flying Aircraft Carriers
  • The First Zeppelins
  • The World’s First Airline
  • The Goodyear Blimp
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