Eureka, the only passenger airship in the US, arrived at DuPage Airport this past Thursday and will be gracing the skies of the western Chicago suburbs until Monday. The zeppelin is officially named Eureka; however, is most recognizable to people as the Farmers Airship as the Farmers Insurance logo adorns the sides of the vessel and has been used as a TV platform during events such as PGA Golf tournaments, USTA Tennis matches and college football games, even flying over the 2011 Rose Bowl Game.
The visit is the second, and final, visit to the Chicago area on what is being called the Farmers Airship Covering Communities Tour. They are offering 'flightseeing' tours during their stay here, with more tours scheduled for Sunday as well. To see if tours are still available, you can call 650-969-8100, ext. 111 or check online at Airship Ventures website. The flightseeing tours are the first airship tours being offered across the United States since the 'golden age' of airship travel over 70 years ago. The flights last about 45 minutes, cruising over the counties west of Chicago at about 1,200'. The cost is about $375 plus tax per ticket.
The zeppelin is owned and operated by Airship Ventures and is not just the only airship in the US, but the largest passenger airship in the world. It measures 246' in length. This is 15' longer than a Boeing 747 airliner, but only seats 12 passengers. These passengers also get to experience the flight in luxury with oversized windows, even in the bathroom, offering a definite room with a view. Some the the windows even open, providing for unique views and photo opportunities during the flightseeing tours. There is also a wrap-around bay window featuring a love seat for spectacular views and comfort.
During the airships stay in the region, they are also hosting special events to fundraise for March of Dimes, the primary charity choice of Farmers Insurance.
In addition to the flightseeing tours and use as a TV platform, the airship has been a perfect platform for scientific study as well. Airship Ventures has worked with NASA, SETI, NOAA, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Woods Hole Institute and the California Emergency Management Agency.
The Farmers Airship will be at DuPage airport until Monday and will be departing for Indianapolis for additional flightseeing tours there from Tuesday, August 9th until Sunday, August 14th.
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