FLYING WHALES (FLWH), the innovative developer behind the LCA60T large-capacity airship, has announced a landmark collaboration with Hexcel, a global leader in advanced composite materials. Together, the companies are developing tailored solutions to create the airship’s lightweight structure, an ambitious step toward accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy. 

As part of this project, FLYING WHALES will leverage a wide range of Hexcel’s high-performance materials, including HexTow® IMA carbon fiber, chosen for its outstanding balance of tensile strength, stiffness, and cost-efficiency. These pultruded carbon fiber tubes form the skeleton of the LCA60T airship, enabling a lighter, more sustainable platform for heavy cargo transport to remote areas. 

“Together with Flying Whales, we are thrilled to be part of this visionary project. We propel the future of flight and transportation through excellence in advanced material solutions that create a better world,” said Thierry Merlot, President of Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific at Hexcel. 

Over the past two years, the partners have jointly developed a range of cutting-edge composites, including prepregs, fibers, fabrics, and adhesives, to meet the airship’s demanding technical requirements. Vincent Guibout, CEO of FLYING WHALES, underscored the collaboration’s impact: “Their expertise has been crucial in bringing the LCA60T airship to life. This airship represents a significant leap forward in sustainable cargo transport, with minimal environmental impact.” 

Source: www.hexcel.com