World’s Largest Aircraft Is Almost Ready...See Photos

The world's largest airship, nicknamed the 'Flying Bum', is almost ready for its test flight next month. The 300ft-long (93 metres) ship was originally developed as part of a US Army project but was scrapped by military bosses. It is now being converted to provide business and leisure flights in a hangar in Cardington, Bedfordshire. 

The first giant fin has now been attached to the ship, which is officially called the 'Airlander 10', according to Hybrid Air Vehicles who is constructing the aircraft. The fin, measuring 9 x 11 metre, was secured to the hull using a series of cables and clamps. If you were to lay two tail fins side-by-side, they would comfortably cover the playing area of a tennis court.

The vessel was filled with 1.3 million cubic feet of helium - enough to fill 15 Olympic-sized swimming pools - in a test run last October. Yet despite its impressive size and design, which is hoped to reinvigorate interest in using airships, the vehicle is attracting more attention for its appearance.