The company's first product, the CL75 balloon-based system, has been in prototype flight test since October 2001. The basic concept behind CargoLifter rests on proven technology while at the same time taking advantage of technological progress by the use of the most modern materials available. CargoLifter, in other words, is a ship with the air as its ocean. The CargoLifter stays in the air even when the engines are turned off. An airplane which is heavier than air requires energy for both propulsion as well as for creating lift. Therefore, energy is only spent on the airship's forward propulsion. The weight of the cargo is compensated for by the lift of the gas. One cubic meter of helium can carry about one kilogram. The CargoLifter gains lift through the use of helium gas. CargoLifter is cooperating with a number of partners and potential users to further define and develop both markets and products. Listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, CargoLifter AG has developed a unique capability to research, design, develop and produce airships and other lighter-than-air vehicles. The contract follows a Letter of Intent signed by the two companies in May 2002.ĬargoLifter AG, based south of Berlin in Germany, is developing lighter-than-air systems for logistics and other applications. Boeing and CargoLifter currently are taking the first steps to put together their team. The new restructured CargoLifter is able to use its extensive knowledge of lighter-than-air platform development to assist Boeing in establishing a lead position in the stratospheric airship market - a market that is set to grow significantly over the next decade.

Airships may be a suitable platform for such applications. Several governments have research and development activities focused on stratospheric platforms to support communications and surveillance requirements. The contract, which provides for a detailed study of lighter-than-air stratospheric platforms, will enable Boeing and CargoLifter to coordinate efforts to bid as airship system suppliers for current and future programs.ĬargoLifter has the capability and expertise for lighter-than-air platform development, and we are excited to work with them. In July 2002 Boeing and CargoLifter AG signed a contract to jointly explore stratospheric airship concepts.

Cargolifter hinge