Half blimp, half helo, all heavy-lift

Boeing announced today a partnership with Canadian firm SkyHook International to build the JHL-40 (Jess Heavy Lifter). SkyHook secured the patent for the JHL-40 and brought it to Boeing's Advanced Rotorcraft Systems division to see if they could develop the behemoth. This bad boy will far surpass the lifting capabilities of any rotorcraft out there due to its unique design. The entire weight of the aircraft is kept airborne by the helium envelope making the JHL-40 neutrally buoyant. This means the four rotors are dedicated solely to lifting the payload which can reach 40 tons. The team sees the JHL-40 as a perfect fit for hauling over the Canadian Arctic and Alaska where the aircraft can travel up to 200 miles without refueling. Boeing intends to build two prototypes at its at its Rotorcraft Systems facility in Ridley Park, PA. SkyHook will own and operate all other JHL-40s for customers worldwide. The aircraft should enter service as soon as it receives certification from Transport Canada and the FAA.



(via Boeing)

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