Editing Zeppelin NT (section)

===Propulsion and steering===
[[File:Farmers-ZeppelinNT.jpg|right|thumb|Side thrusters visible on approach]]
Power for the Zeppelin NT's propulsion systems is provided by a trio of {{convert|147|kW|hp|adj=on}} [[Lycoming O-360|Textron Lycoming IO-360]] [[Flat-four engine|boxer aviation engines]], fueled by standard [[aviation gasoline]]. These engines are mounted on the sides and rear of the structure itself to provide optimum efficiency; this arrangement also increases in-flight comfort due to reduced levels of propeller noise and vibration.<ref name = "tech"/> In addition to thrust, each engine also provides maneuverability via their swiveling propellers; the two forward engines are equipped with [[hydraulics|hydraulically]]-actuated tilting propellers which are usually aligned horizontally, but can be turned 90° upward or 30° downward, while the aft engine powers a fixed lateral propeller.<ref name = "tech"/><ref>Sträter 2012, pp. 566–568, 572.</ref> Each engine is furnished with separate fuel tanks and supply systems that typically operate independently of one another.<ref name = "Sträter 568-570">Sträter 2012, pp. 568–570.</ref>

The swiveling propellers have been claimed to have provided the Zeppelin NT with unique flight characteristics, such as being able to hover precisely, fly backwards, take off vertically, and turn on its axis. The functionality of the swiveling propellers allows the Zeppelin NT to carry out both take-offs and landing operations entirely in the vertical plane. During such operations, only three ground personnel are required, lowering costs and minimizing turnaround times as a consequence.<ref name = "tech"/><ref name = "Sträter 566">Sträter 2012, p. 566.</ref> In 2010, development of an improved propeller capable of quieter operation was completed.<ref name = "off hist"/>

Instead of four [[rudder]] and elevator fins set on the airship's empennage, the Zeppelin NT uses only three identical fins; one fin being set at the top with the others offset at an angle of 120 degrees to either side of the top fin.<ref name = "Sträter 563">Sträter 2012, p. 563.</ref> This arrangement not only saves weight, but as a side effect, the loss of one fin can be compensated with the remaining two. The aerodynamically balanced rudders are equipped with independent electrical actuators.<ref name = "Sträter 563"/>