Abstract: A hybrid lift air vehicle for carrying and transporting a load, comprising an envelope having a generally ellipsoidal shape adapted to receive a volume of lighter-than-air gas, at least two variable thrust vertical thrusters in secure engagement with the envelope and at least two variable thrust lateral thrusters in secure engagement with the envelope, means for temporarily securely engaging the load to the envelope wherein the volume of lighter-than-air gas has a buoyancy that offsets at least 25% of the weight of the air vehicle when unloaded, wherein the thrust from the at least two vertical thrusters may be varied to raise and lower the air vehicle and the load when engaged, and wherein the thrust from the at least two lateral thrusters may be varied to maneuver and transport the raised air vehicle and the load when engaged.