B2 – Upper Intermediate
Could airships be the key to sustainable air travel? With concerns over aviation’s environmental impact rising, these eco-friendly vehicles are being revisited as a possible solution. While they offer the promise of lower carbon emissions, questions about their practicality and cost-effectiveness remain.
Read the article to discover whether airships can provide a viable, greener alternative to modern air travel, or if they’re just a nostalgic dream.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “at the height of luxury” mean? “The journey is expected to take two days and will be conducted at the height of luxury in an airship gondola decked out with panoramic windows, fine dining areas and opulent cabins containing eco-luxury beds that take in the views of the icebergs as you go.” Make a sentence with this.
- What is “a niche role”? “In my view, airships cannot replace aircraft but might have a niche role to play, like cruise ships, on slower journeys.” Create a sentence with this phrase.
- Define the expression, “poised to enter something”. “LTA – which stands for “Lighter Than Air” – is one of a handful of airship manufacturers around the world currently poised to enter the aviation market.” Use this in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What makes airships a potential solution for sustainable air travel?
- Do you believe airships could become a viable alternative to airplanes for long-distance travel?
- Should governments and industries invest more in the development of airships for sustainable travel?
- Would you consider traveling by airship if it were available as a sustainable option?
- Do you think the cost of building and operating airships would be justified by their environmental benefits?