A Zeppelin pilot tells us: Flying over Lake Constance!
Mark Hollerer, one of only 17 Zeppelin pilots in the world, shares his fascination for flying and the challenges of his job.

A Zeppelin pilot tells us: Flying over Lake Constance!
A fascinating sight awaits the passengers waiting for the Zeppelin at the hangar in Friedrichshafen. The 75 meter long Zeppelin NT, which is now piloted by Marko Hollerer, attracts everyone's attention. Marko, an experienced Zeppelin pilot, is one of only 17 in the world who practice this unique profession. With impressive training and over 2,300 flying hours, he is ready to conquer the skies.
Marko Hollerer, who originally comes from Styria in Austria, found his way to the Zeppelins quite by chance. After training as an electrical and environmental engineer, he initially applied for a job at a regional airline, but was attracted by the majestic appearance of the Zeppelins in Friedrichshafen. “For me, Zeppelins only existed in connection with Hindenburg,” he remembers. After three years of training and intensive preparations, he is now ready to take the passengers on an unforgettable journey.
The exciting everyday life of a Zeppelin pilot
Preparations for the flight begin two hours before departure. Marko analyzes weather data and plans every aspect of the flight to ensure passenger safety. “It’s important for us to react early,” he says. Despite the challenges that the weather can bring, the forecast on this day is promising.
When the Zeppelin finally takes off, the passengers are thrilled. Marko controls the airship manually, which gives him the ability to react directly to weather conditions. “We really fly everything manually,” he explains proudly. The flight takes place over the breathtaking landscape of Lake Constance, and Marko enjoys entertaining his passengers with information and stories about the region.
After a long day at work, Marko uses his free time to explore the nature around Lake Constance. Whether hiking in the Alps or stand-up paddling on the water, he has settled in well in the region and is enjoying the advantages of his new home. “There are great hiking opportunities,” he enthuses. Marko Hollerer is not only a Zeppelin pilot, but also a passionate explorer who combines the beauty of aviation and nature.