Wind Trader Gondolas are both vessel and village. Most Tlalim convoys are composed of five to eight of the structures, each crewed by twenty to thirty Na’vi. These Na’vi are organized by family, and overseen by an olo’eyktan who serves as an “admiral” to the convoy.

Gondolas are lightweight but durable, so as to weather the harsh elements they are exposed to during their journeys. Their frame is composed of Pandoran rattan cane, bundled and lashed together with palm-fiber rope. The gondolas are further outfitted with shelter and decoration that suits their own individual subculture. The upper “weather” deck contains a marui-like structure in the center, which serves as a common area for cooking, gathering and festivities. Middle and lower decks contain efficient storage and sleeping areas, including a water bladder on the lowest deck that is used for both drinking and ballast.

When in flight, the gondolas function much like Terran ocean vessels. Crews of eight scramble to and fro, managing the steering ropes and rigging to navigate the vessel. In the absence of pulleys, forbidden under the Three Laws of Eywa, the Wind Traders rely on fairleads of polished shell or bone and their combined strength to manipulate the rigging lines. The gondolas are each towed by a windray and navigator pair, who are capable of providing additional guidance to the vessel in differing aerial currents. These navigators carry deep knowledge of Pandora’s surface and skies, but are also equipped with tools and maps to assist.