Work Begins on Giant Airship Factory in South Yorkshire

Preparation Underway at Carcroft Common
Construction has officially commenced on a groundbreaking airship production facility at Carcroft Common, Doncaster. Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), the company behind the innovative Airlander 10 airships, confirmed that preparatory work has started on the 124-acre (50-hectare) site, which is set to become a hub for sustainable aviation.

The facility, spanning an area equivalent to 70 football fields, will have the capacity to produce 24 Airlander 10 airships annually. These massive, ultra-low-emission aircraft are designed to carry up to 100 passengers or 10 tonnes of freight, making them a game-changer in both passenger and cargo transport.

Major Investment Fuels Progress
The initial phase of the project has been bolstered by the first installment of a £7 million loan from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA). This funding marks a significant milestone in bringing HAV’s vision to life, enabling the creation of a world-class airship assembly and testing facility.

“This is a major step forward for our Airlander program,” a HAV spokesperson said. “It represents a commitment to sustainable aviation and advanced manufacturing, which will have a transformative impact on the region.”

Job Creation and Economic Impact
The new site is expected to generate at least 1,200 jobs, ranging from advanced manufacturing and engineering roles to administrative and support positions. This influx of skilled employment opportunities is expected to boost the local economy and attract talent to South Yorkshire.

To support its growing workforce, HAV has established a temporary office at Cavendish Court in Doncaster, providing a base of operations while work progresses at Carcroft Common.

Aligning with Regional Strategies
HAV’s plans align closely with the City of Doncaster’s Economic Strategy 2030 and the South Yorkshire Investment Zone. Both initiatives aim to attract investment, support skill development, and promote sustainable economic growth.

Nick Allman, CEO of HAV, highlighted the broader impact of the project. “This facility will not only establish Doncaster as a hub for advanced manufacturing but also create new opportunities for jobs and apprenticeships in the region,” he said.

Local Leaders Voice Their Support
Ros Jones, Mayor of Doncaster, described HAV’s decision to base its operations in the city as a significant milestone. “The presence of HAV in Doncaster is an exciting step forward for the next generation of air technology. This development will bring substantial investment and create highly skilled job opportunities, further cementing our city as a hub for innovation and industry.”

Oliver Coppard, Mayor of South Yorkshire, emphasized the facility’s role in positioning the region as a leader in sustainable aviation. “The start of work at Carcroft Common means we are building a world-leading center for sustainable air travel right here in South Yorkshire,” he said. Coppard also reiterated his commitment to reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport, envisioning it as a central hub for sustainable aviation.

A Vision for Sustainable Aviation
The Airlander 10 project represents a pivotal step in redefining lighter-than-air travel. A previous prototype, slightly shorter at 302ft (92m), conducted six successful test flights between 2016 and 2017, demonstrating the feasibility of HAV’s innovative approach to aviation. Although the prototype was retired after an incident in 2017, it paved the way for advancements that are now being realized at scale.

A New Era of Innovation in South Yorkshire
This airship factory is more than just a production site—it’s a symbol of South Yorkshire’s transformation into a hub for cutting-edge technology and green innovation. With its blend of bold vision, economic opportunity, and regional development, the project signals the dawn of a new era for lighter-than-air vehicles and sustainable aviation.

The skies over Doncaster are set to change forever, and the world is watching.