Who invented the hovercraft?

The hovercraft was invented by Christopher Cockerell, who developed the concept in the 1950s. Cockerell's innovative design utilized a cushion of air that was blown beneath the vehicle, allowing it to hover over various surfaces, including water and land. This technology enabled the hovercraft to glide smoothly without the drag typically associated with traditional vehicles.

His experiments led to the creation of a vessel that could traverse both land and water, significantly broadening transportation options in challenging environments. This invention has been vital in various fields, such as military applications, transportation over marshy areas, and rescue operations. Cockerell's contributions laid the groundwork for modern hovercraft design and development, making them a unique mode of transportation today.