But as airships were built larger, and greater speeds were obtained, it became necessary to strengthen the envelopes with some form of keel; and this led to a type which is known as the semi-rigid, and is developed successfully in France. The figure illustrates an airship of this build. Along the lower side of its envelope is placed a light, rigid framework or keel, and from this is suspended the car which contains engines and crew.

A. Gas-containing envelope
B. Strengthening keel
C.C. Stabilising-planes
D. Rudder
E. Car carrying engines, propeller, and crew.