Goodyear plans replacements for its 3-blimp fleet

CLEVELAND (AP) — Goodyear plans a 21st century makeover for its fleet of iconic blimps.

The Ohio-based tire manufacturer said today it will team up with Germany’s ZLT Zeppelin Luftschifftechnik to build three new blimps beginning in 2013.

The first will go into operation in 2014. Each of Goodyear’s three North American blimps will be replaced.

The airships will be built by Zeppelin and Goodyear teams at Goodyear’s airship hangar near Akron.

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. also has leased blimp operations in Europe and China.

CEO Richard Kramer says updating the fleet will assure that future generations will be able to experience the joy of seeing a Goodyear blimp gracing the skies.

Goodyear has been making airships since 1919 and Zeppelin since 1900.