'World's largest aircraft' prepares for first flight

The Airlander 10, a cross between an airship and an aeroplane, is reportedly weeks away from its maiden flight.

The "world's largest aircraft", a cross between an airship and an aeroplane, is only weeks away from its maiden flight, Sky News reported on Sunday.

The Airlander 10 was originally developed for the US Army back in 2009, but re-imagined for commercial use when the project had been abandoned.

The Airlander 10 (Sky)

Aviation expert David Learmount told Sky News that while it will be more niche than mass market, it will be "very useful" for those who do need it.

Unlike an airplane, the Airlander 10 does not need a runway and can land on most surfaces, including water.

It can also carry up to 10 tons, transport 48 passengers and fly continuously for five days at 80 knots (92mph), making it ideal to transport large amount of cargo to difficult to reach places, Sky News reported.