Lou Remington has returned safely from Canada aboard the private enterprise-built airship, Howden R100. Whilst in North America, he made a personal trip down to Washington, D.C. and Virginia to see his family. It is the height of the Depression and Lou was shocked to see the state of affairs in America. He was also saddened to see what has become of his family during his ten-year absence. His visit was further enlivened by a brush with the Ku Klux Klan and a reunion with his old flame, Julia, who revealed she is still in love with him and whom the family believe he has jilted.

The stakes were high with Howden R100's trip to North America. The Vickers team had been approached before leaving in a bid to postpone the voyage, as the government airship was not fit to make its own transcontinental flight to India. An extra bay must be inserted in order to provide more lift – she is perilously overweight. The private team has triumphantly achieved its goal—a round trip to Canada—although, not without some terrifying moments.

Now, with the gauntlet thrown down, can the government-built Cardington R101 match Howden R100's splendid accomplishment? With the world watching, the country's prestige is on the line, while the backs of the brave men of the Royal Airship Works are against the wall.