Goodyear Blimp celebrates 100th birthday with flight over Massachusetts

The Goodyear Blimp marked its 100th anniversary with a celebratory flight over Plymouth, Massachusetts, featuring Paul Sullivan, vice president of Sullivan Tire. This year also marks the 70th anniversary of Sullivan Tire, which has deep ties to the blimp's legacy. Paul Sullivan shared a memorable anecdote about his father, who appeared in an advertisement that led to a free ride on the airship, referring to it as "an ambassador to all of America. " The blimp has a storied history, having flown over major events such as NASCAR and the World Series. Jerry Hissem, one of only 13 pilots, likened the experience of flying the blimp to "floating in a bubble.

" As part of its 100-city tour, the blimp showcases its enduring presence in American culture. Goodyear has manufactured 300 blimps over the past century, with only three still operational in the U. S. The celebration highlights the blimp's significance as a historical icon in aviation.