Hovercrafts

Hovercrafts are amazing machines that float on a cushion of air. They can travel over water, land, mud, ice, and even swamps. Big fans blow air underneath the hovercraft to lift it off the ground. Hovercrafts don't need roads or runways, which makes them very useful.

How Hovercrafts Work

A powerful fan blows air down under the hovercraft. A rubber skirt around the bottom traps the air and creates a cushion. This lifts the hovercraft a few inches off the ground. Another fan or propeller on the back pushes it forward. Rudders help the driver steer.

Where Hovercrafts Are Used

Hovercrafts are used by the military, coast guards, and rescue teams. They can reach flooded areas that boats and trucks can't. Some hovercrafts carry passengers across the English Channel between England and France. They are also great for exploring Arctic regions where the ground is frozen and uneven.

Fun Facts

• The first hovercraft was invented by Christopher Cockerell in 1955 using a vacuum cleaner motor.
• The largest hovercraft ever built could carry 418 passengers and 60 cars.
• Hovercrafts can travel over water, ice, sand, grass, and even swamps.

Did You Know?

Hovercrafts are so loud that passengers sometimes need ear protection! The fans that create the air cushion can be as noisy as a rock concert.