The story takes place in the early 1930s. The United States Navy is trying desperately to establish a Zeppelin program and has signed a contract with the Goodyear-Zeppelin Company to Build them. The U.S.S. Akron is built and commissioned.

The Heavier-than-Air Unit is established, and 6 Naval Aviators are selected to man this Unit. Ensign Walter Pellman, who is a flight student, has a chance encounter with Admiral McMillin, and the Admiral takes a liking to the young Naval Aviator. Upon graduation, he becomes the Admirals aide.

The Trapeze is the Air Units substitute for carrier landings. It takes a special pilot to accomplish hookups to the Trapeze, which is mounted on the underbelly of the U.S.S. Akron.