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In 1919 the
design concept for a passenger carrying luxury airship took shape
and the Trans-Oceanic Airship was proposed. New research has uncovered
some original contemporary texts.
In order
to meet the different requirements of the various commercial services
for which they would be utilized, airship designs will provide
for several distinct types and sizes. The following was seen as
the most important classes :-
1. The passenger
and mail carrier for the great trans-ocean world routes - The
Trans-Oceanic
2. The express passenger and mail carrier for trans continental
traffic - The
Continental
3. The large passenger and mail carrier for up to distances up
to 300 miles
4. The medium sized airship for pleasure cruises, patrol etc.
5. The small airship for private pleasure cruises and special
purposes.
Also patented
was a new approach to boarding and mooring of ships to a high
mast. The Vickers mooring out system was devised -
Mooring Masts
Although Vickers did not complete it's commercial plans with the
Trans-Oceanic or the Continental, the main design ideas were passed
over on to the Naval Rigid which was completed, the R80
- the most aero dynamic airship ever produced. Also the design
team were later to be charged with the construction of the R100.
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