Why were airships considered ineffective as bombers?

Airships were considered ineffective as bombers primarily due to their slow speed and large surface area, which made them easy targets for enemy anti-aircraft fire and fighter planes. Their design and operational characteristics resulted in a lack of maneuverability and speed, meaning they could not evade attacks effectively. This vulnerability became increasingly apparent during conflicts such as World War I and World War II when faster, more agile aircraft became prevalent.

While other factors, such as cargo capacity or operating costs, certainly played a role in the operational decisions of militaries, the immediate threat posed to airships in combat situations was their susceptibility to enemy fire due to their reduced speed and agility.