All on a Cushion of Air

Brian's paper discussed the various aspects of hovercraft development including the demise of the cross channel SRN4's. The smaller craft is now becoming a buoyant market with Griffon producing hovercraft for use in different climes around the world.

Search and rescue agencies are now using hovercraft to extend their operating capability and the RNLI now have two on station.

Hovercraft are now being used in third world countries to transport aid and medical personnel into remote areas inaccessible by any other means.

Very much in the news of late is the use of hovercraft in the gulf with the Griffon 2000's and the American LCAC being used extensively.

Other countries are also promoting the use of hovercraft such as Finland, with the Fast Multi Purpose Hovercraft, Russia, with the Zubr - a giant machine capable of carrying several tanks, Saudi Arabia and India.

Brian concluded his presentation with information about the Hovercraft Museum Project and the problems experience in raising funds.

An interesting paper which showed that far from being a dying industry the Hovercraft is moving into a new lease of life with many applications to yet be identified.