Is the Zeppelin NT a lighter-than-air or a heavier-than-air aircraft?
Some people say, the Zeppelin NT is a lighter-than-air aircraft. This is not quite right. The Zeppelin NT takes off with a static weight of approx. 350 kg (772 lbs). Therefore, it is heavier than air. A hot-air balloon is a lighter-than-air aircraft. The Zeppelin NT climbs using its three engines, whereas a balloon solely climbs by means of helium or hot air. It is, however, possible to transfer from a heavier-than-air to a lighter-than-air state, when the Zeppelin NT after a long flight has consumed so much fuel that it gets lighter than air.