Abstract: A system, method and apparatus are disclosed for enabling the efficient utilization of hydrogen as an emissions-free fuel for airships and other aircraft, including in one embodiment for transporting cryogenic hydrogen as the airship's payload. A system, method and apparatus are disclosed to provide substantially higher net energy density for the propulsion system, optimizing the weight of the cryogenic tanks, utilizing boiloff directly or indirectly for propulsion power, and employing a novel thermal management system both to cool the fuel cells and help regulate the conversion of liquid hydrogen into gas. A system, method and apparatus are also disclosed for ground-based facilities including strategically located depots, optionally supplied by such hydrogen transport vehicles, and utilizing a novel thermal compression system to store, pressurize and distribute hydrogen, including but not limited to gaseous hydrogen pipelines, transport trailers, and dispensing systems.