The aircraft is only a transport mechanism for the payload, and all design decisions must consider payload first. Simply stated, the aircraft is a dust cover. "Fundamentals of Aircraft and Airship Design, Volume 1: Aircraft Design" emphasizes that the science and art of the aircraft design process is a compromise and that there is no right answer; however, there is always a best answer based on existing requirements and available technologies.

A unique and indispensable guide to modern airship design and operation, for researchers and professionals working in mechanical and aerospace engineering.

This comprehensive guide to modern airship design and operation, written by world experts, is the only up-to-date book on airship technology intended as a technical guide to those interested in studying, designing, building, flying, and operating airship. In addition to basic airship principles, the book covers conventional and unconventional design in a panoramic and in-depth manner focusing on four themes: (1) basic principles such as aerostatics, aerodynamics, propulsion, materials and structures, stability and control, mooring and ground handling, and piloting and meteorology; (2) different airship types including conventional (manned and unmanned), hot air, solar powered, and hybrid; (3) airship applications including surveillance, tourism, heavy lift, and disaster and humanitarian relief; and (4) airship roles and economic considerations. This second edition introduces nine new chapters and includes significant revisions and updates to five of the original chapters.