An American icon in the British skies: HiQ Tyres & Autocare takes flight on the Goodyear Blimp

Backed by Goodyear, one of the largest tyre manufacturers in the world, HiQ Tyres & Autocare operates a UK-based network of more than 120 autocentres made up of franchises and equity sites. This partnership remains central to its ethos today: local ownership, combined with trusted service and national strength. For HiQ, the Goodyear Blimp’s visit acts as a fitting reminder of the expertise behind its network, drawing on the same engineering pedigree and century of innovation that keeps the Goodyear Blimp, and millions of vehicles on UK roads, moving safely.

The invitation to join the flight was extended to HiQ Tyres & Autocare franchisees, centre managers and fleet customers, in return for their outstanding contribution and commitment to the network. Beyond the thrill of the flight itself, the day allowed members of the network to catch-up and reconnect.

The world’s most-watched aircraft

The Goodyear Blimp’s appearance in the skies over London stirred up much excitement among local residents, with the following Sunday’s flight breaking the record for the most tracked aircraft anywhere in the world on Flightradar24.

It has acted as Goodyear’s aerial ambassador for almost a century, first taking to the skies over a century ago and pioneering live aerial television coverage as early as 1955. Today, a fleet of four identical airships - three in the United States and one based in Germany - together cover around 200 events a year, from appearances over some of the world’s best-known cities to major motorsport weekends like the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Goodyear Blimp is a Zeppelin NT semi-rigid airship, and the largest of its kind in the world today, measuring 75 metres long, 19.5 metres wide and 17.4 metres high. Its total volume is 8,425 m³, filled with helium, a non-flammable gas used in all modern airships for maximum safety. It's powered by three 200 hp engines, giving it a maximum speed of 125 km/h and a range of 1,000 km.

A once-in-a-lifetime experience

For those fortunate enough to secure a seat aboard the airship, the day was charged with anticipation from the moment they arrived at the air field.

Steve Roest, Managing Director, HiQ Tyres & Autocare Maidenhead, describes: "On a wonderfully sunny July day I was given the chance to take an airship ride in the Goodyear Blimp! An epic experience I will never forget, particularly flying over Leeds Castle and the Brands Hatch motor racing circuit, with perfect views towards London. The flight was 90 minutes long and brilliantly organised by the Goodyear and HiQ staff, thank you all for an amazing day."

Craig Sprigmore, Retail Director, HiQ Tyres & Autocare, added: “The Goodyear Blimp has delighted onlookers for over a century and has earned its icon status. Goodyear's name stands for quality and innovation, and that heritage is something we're proud to carry through into every HiQ Tyres & Autocare centre, and into the service our customers receive. We are very proud to have offered a once-in-a-lifetime experience to our network members - the energy on the day was fantastic. It isn’t every day that you get to experience a flight on the iconic Goodyear Blimp!”