Why wasn't the hidenburg filled with helium instead of hydrogen?

Answer 1

Helium was originally planned for use in the Hindenburg because of it being non-flammable, however, the US had the major reserves and was not willing to sell their helium as they were using it for their rigid airships too. They then chose hydrogen because it was lighter, had better lift, and was much cheaper.

Answer 2

Helium is relatively hard to get. It's a biproduct of some radioactive decay, and it's widely available out in space since stars make it, but it's hard to get on earth. Hydrogen is REALLY easy to get -- in the worst case scenario, you just need water and electricity, although there are better industrial processes. During the 30's, military embargoes kept Germany from getting enough Helium, so they used Hydrogen.

Answer 3

Because at the time The USA was the only country that could produce helium in the amounts required. and the US refused to allow the sale of it to the germans.

Answer 4

Because hydrogen is extremely flammable and dangerous.

Answer 5

If you mean to inflate balloons, hydrogen is very flammable, but helium is not.