@Dave NYC Hudson PRR K4 posted:Those are really great Skip. Do you recall that the Empire State Building was originally going to have blimp docking way up top? One tragic day in New Jersey changed the minds of many so that was no longer a viable option. Could you imagine it though, if that was something that had actually happened to be? Blimp docking, top floor. It would be interesting to try and model that, but the antenna on top of the Empire State Building would have to pop off and be as when King Kong had come to town.
The navy thought about it but felt it was impractical even before the Hindenburg disaster. It was never really seriously considered for commercial passenger service. Wind was a major issue making it too difficult to be practical.
Navy test docking in 1930 prior to the building's opening.
The steep narrow stairway leading up to the 103rd floor.
This recent photo shows the 103nd Floor observation deck. Special groups have been allowed to tour the 103rd deck but it is generally closed to the public. This would have been the floor used for blimp docking. It has a very narrow outside deck with a scary low wall.
103rd Floor deck. Inside is not much room for anything but the narrow stairway down and a yellow ladder for workmen to reach the antenna.
