World's largest aircraft crashes at Cardington Airfield for the second time

The Airlander 10 has crashed to the ground for the second time at Cardington Airfield in Bedfordshire.

Hybrid Air Vehicles Ltd said the Airlander was not flying at the time, but a female member of staff was injured and taken to hospital as a precaution.

Experts are continuing to assess the damage. Until they complete their work, there will be no further comment.

Bedfordshire Police were called just before 9.30am today to the Airfield following reports that an airship had become loose from its moorings.

The aircraft has cost £100 million pounds to get into the air

In August 2016, it was grounded when its mooring line snagged on power lines causing it to come down at a hard angle.

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch say the Airlander 10 was climbing to an excessive height at Cardington Airfield when it happened.

On Friday, the Airlander took off on its sixth test flight at Cardington Airfield.

Hybrid Air Vehicles Ltd said it was now in the "next phase of extended test flights".

Steve McGlennan, CEO said: “We’re thrilled to have commenced the next round of testing; our world class team have really done well and we can’t wait to showcase Airlander across the UK in coming months.”

"A number of modifications were carried out in preparation for this next phase of testing; the most noticeable change is the fairing attached between the hull and the mission module, which will reduce drag at the higher speeds at which the Airlander will be travelling."