Following on the success of the R34, it was seen that the airship could transverse oceans and the original idea of linking the Empire together was born. Vickers Company had been producing airships since the original Airship Number 1, the Mayfly, and also a series of rigid airships during the war.
In 1919, the design concept for a passenger-carrying luxury airship took shape, and the Trans-Oceanic Airship was proposed. New research has uncovered some original contemporary texts.
In order to meet the different requirements of the various commercial services for which they would be utilised, airship designs will provide for several distinct types and sizes. The following were seen as the most important classes:-
- The passenger and mail carrier for the great trans-oceanic world routes – The Trans-Oceanic
- The express passenger and mail carrier for trans continental traffic – The Continental
- The large passenger and mail carrier for distances up to 300 miles
- The medium-sized airship for pleasure cruises, patrol, etc.
- The small airship for private pleasure cruises and special purposes.
Also patented was a new approach to the boarding and mooring of ships to a high mast. The Vickers mooring-out system was devised.
Although Vickers did not complete its commercial plans with the Trans-Oceanic or the Continental, the main design ideas were passed over on to the Naval Rigid, which was completed, the R80 – the most aerodynamic airship ever produced. Also, the design team were later to be charged with the construction of the R100.