Abstract: An airship is described that shows a central rigid frame, extending the length of the airship, about which are arranged at least three equally spaced gas envelopes containing a lifting gas. Propulsion units are located at each end of the central frame and are controllably moved in different directions to control the airship. Also included on the airship is a hot air envelope above the lifting gas envelopes and provided with pivoting masts to increase and decrease the size of the hot air envelope.