Abstract: In a two-stage hovercraft skirt comprising an upper loop from which segments depend, operational movements of the skirt are effected by an adjusting tie extending at right angles and connected to generally radially directed ties by which the segments are secured to the hovercraft. By connecting the adjusting tie to the midpoint of the segment ties, holding the skirt against sympathetic movement with the adjusting tie and operating the latter by a lever system mechanically equivalent to the tie system the force required to cause movement of the skirt may be kept constant. Movements of the skirt may be used to cause or control rolling, pitching or heaving of the hovercraft.