Abstract: A non-rigid airship is provided which includes a gas envelope having propulsion units mounted on either side thereof. Thrust emanating from the propulsion units is deflectable to control at least the vertical positioning of the airship. Horizontal positioning of the airship may be controlled by varying the relative thrust of the propulsion units. A method is also provided for controlling the flight path of an airship. The method includes providing propulsion units on opposite sides of the airship and deflecting the thrust of the propulsion units to control vertical placement of the airship. Horizontal placement of the airship may be carried out by varying the relative thrust of the propulsion units.

Abstract: A multi-piece inflatable piece is provided. The inflatable has a base portion which contains an inflating blower. A top portion is releasably attached to the base portion permitting a single base portion to be used with variously shaped top portions. In one embodiment the base portion is a pail into which the top portion may be collapsed for storage and shipping purposes.