Flight Licenses Required for Flying a Blimp: An Overview

Flying a blimp or airship, also known as an airship, requires a specific set of licenses and certifications. Whether you are a serious enthusiast or a professional, understanding these requirements is crucial for navigating the regulatory landscape.

Understanding the Flight Licenses

In the United States, there are two primary flight licenses that allow you to fly a blimp or airship: the Light Sport Pilot Certificate and the Private Pilot Certificate with an airship rating.

Light Sport Pilot Certificate

For those looking to fly lighter-than-air aircraft like blimps, a Light Sport Pilot Certificate is the best option. This certificate permits you to operate aircraft that meet the light sport aircraft criteria, which includes blimps. The process involves completing ground school and flight training.

Private Pilot Certificate with Airship Rating

For those seeking a slightly more advanced certificate, the Private Pilot Certificate with an airship rating is available. This certificate is designed for operations that are more complex compared to a light sport certificate. You will need to receive specific training and pass a checkride for airships.

Medical Certificate and Compliance

Both types of pilot certificates may require a medical certificate. A third-class medical is typically necessary for a Private Pilot license. It's important to stay updated with the FAA or the relevant aviation authority in your country, as requirements can vary.

Pilot Training and Experience

No matter which certificate you pursue, you will need to undergo specific training with an instructor experienced in airships. This training is essential to ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a blimp safely.

My personal experience with a Zeppelin NT highlights the complexity of the training process. A Zeppelin NT, while similar to a blimp, is larger and contains a partial framework inside the gas bag. To obtain a license to fly a Zeppelin NT, you may need to start with a pilot's license and then complete 40 hours of training in a machine that costs approximately $3,000 per hour. Alternatively, you can start with a blimp license and complete a 25-hour training period in the Zeppelin NT.

Supervision and Carrying Commercial Passengers

Once your initial training is complete, you will need another 150 hours of supervision. During this period, you are permitted to carry paying passengers, which can be a valuable learning experience. Upon completion of this requirement, you can operate as a single-pilot.

The cost of learning to fly a blimp or airship is exceptionally high, and most individuals enter this field through the pathway of working for a company that owns airships. Steve Fossett stands out as the only individual known to have achieved this without affiliating with a company. However, obtaining a Zeppelin NT license is a significant challenge, and it typically involves a long-term commitment.

Conclusion

Flying a blimp is not for the faint of heart. Navigating the necessary licenses, medical requirements, and training can be a daunting task. Yet, for those passionate about airships, the journey is rewarding and filled with the excitement of exploring the skies in these unique and fascinating machines.