THE HINDENBURG

I have been reading about the German air ship Hindenburg it is very interesting reading about its construction and design. Here are a few quick facts.

First flight: March 4 1936

Flights: 63

Length: 800 feet (the same length as a US navy battle ship) 

Diameter: 135 feet

Construction Number: LZ 129

Fate: Destroyed in fire May 6, 1937

   The Hindenburg was a German airship , that took passengers across the Atlantic Ocean to and from Germany. In the 1930 Air ship travel was the way to go as it could cross the Atlantic faster than an ocean liner and in more comfort (less rolling about). The Hindenburg was the Titanic of the air it had luxurious cabins albeit small, delicious food and even a private smoking room. Despite its size only about 10% of all the ship was for passenger or crew use the rest was the steel support frame and the massive gas bags that held highly flammable hydrogen gas.   

     On May 6, 1937 however as the Hindenburg was landing at Lakehurst New Jersey it caught fire and exploded. No one really knows why or how it exploded but probable causes have been but forward such as sabotage static electricity or Saint Elmo’s fire.

READ THE HINDENBURG BY Michael M. Mooney

                        The Hindenburg on test flights 1936

 

 

 

The Hindenburg on fire May 6, 1937

Both photos from Wikipedia

post by Bear