The crash and massive loss of life caused when the ZR-2 exploded over England as it prepared for its transatlantic flight to Lakehurst, N.J. triggered two debates in the United States. First, should the U.S. convert from the flammable gas hydrogen to the nonflammable but much more expensive helium? Second, in the “no more wars era,” why should taxpayers’ money be spent on giant airships and the facilities needed to maintain them?

An article opposing government spending on airships appeared in November 1921, summing up the argument.