The Goodyear Blimp has become an icon at large sporting events and Wingfoot One, Goodyear's newest flying representative, certainly lives up to that iconic reputation.
The Wingfoot One is quicker, capable of hovering in place, and could even withstand a natural disaster.
Technically, the Wingfoot One, which is the newest Goodyear Blimp, is not even a blimp. Blimps are essentially big airbags, and don't have any internal structure. Wingfoot One is semi-rigid and has a partial frame.
Robin Roberts, a co-anchor on "Good Morning America," christened the airship at a ceremony on Aug. 23. Roberts then boarded Wingfoot One for its maiden flight.
"In 1918, my great-grandfather was recruited by Goodyear and moved his family to Akron for a better life. A number of other relatives have worked there, too," said Roberts. "I don't think my great-grandfather could have imagined that one of his descendants would be asked to christen the Goodyear blimp. I'm so honored."
The Wingfoot One represents a new design to the Goodyear "Blimp" in seven decades. German company ZLT Zeppelin Luftschifftechnik built it. The airship can reach up to 73 mph, which is 20 mph faster than older versions. It also now has pivoting engines on its tail, allowing it to hover in place. This will help in the coverage of sports like golf. Furthermore, it will be able to access areas hit by natural disaster because of the fact that it doesn't need a runway to take off.
"The new blimp features advanced on-board avionics and flight control systems with the capability to travel at faster speeds and hover in place. The spacious passenger gondola will provide an enhanced in-flight experience with sweeping, panoramic windows," said the company.
Goodyear will be replacing its two GZ-20 blimps with semi-rigid airships over the next four years.
"The new blimp renews our commitment to our airship program, builds on our legacy as the leading operator of airships and continues our leadership in providing superior aerial coverage of the most watched news, sports and entertainment events," said Goodyear chairman and CEO Richard J. Kramer.
The name of the airship was selected from 15,000 entries in a public voting contest. Charlotte White submitted the winning title, and will be given a day of activities on the Wingfoot One as a prize.
Since 1917, Goodyear has built over 300 air-vehicles for public relations and defense. Its first promotional blimp, the Pilgrim, was launched in 1925.
