Amphibious aircraft developer Jekta has signed yet another important agreement at Farnborough Airshow 2024 in what is turning out to be a busy week for its CEO George Alafinov.
Jekta announced on July 24, 2024, that it had reached a deal with Southeast Asian operator Seaplane Asia for the operator to acquire of 14 PHA-ZE 100 aircraft.
The PHA-ZE 100 is an amphibious aircraft designed with electric and hydrogen propulsion systems, which is set to disrupt the aviation landscape with its concept for future flight.
Seaplane Asia will be looking to adopt the aircraft on short distance flights, island hopping, transport from airports to waterfront locations, sightseeing flights, and yacht transfers.
Jekta says that its aircraft will enable operators to lower costs, open new revenue streams and allow passengers to access affordable travel.
Seaplane Asia is considering using the PHA-ZE 100 on routes between Phuket and surrounding islands in Thailand, Sihanoukville and Cambodian islands and networks linking destinations in eastern Indonesia.
“We have been closely following the early stages of several new platforms and aircraft developments and are confident that the PHA-ZE 100 is among the more promising airframes that can serve our various needs while addressing sustainability through its electric and hydrogen options. Its ability to perform in rougher swells, reduced operating costs, range and cruising speeds, and ample, contemporary cabin design all supported our decision to sign with JEKTA,” said Dennis Keller, CEO of Seaplane Asia.
Keller added that Jekta’s aircraft will help Seaplane Asia accomplish its “mission to provide premium, eco-friendly aviation, connectivity and lifestyle solutions”.
The PHA-ZE 10 will be powered by 10 electric motors supplied with energy from batteries or hydrogen fuel cells with flight time lasting up to one hour, and 30-minute extra in reserve.
The aircraft can operate from coastal waters in waves up to 1.2m high, lakes, and waterways, as well as runways.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Seaplane Asia in leading the way in sustainable amphibious aviation in a region that we believe has incredible potential for our type of offering. The PHA-ZE 100’s attributes, including low maintenance and energy costs, minimized noise, no pollution impact, and limited infrastructure requirements, combine to make it an optimal platform for Seaplane Asia,” George Alafinov said.
He added: “We know that it will add value to their business and that their customers will love the flying experience.”
The first aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2030 with certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
On July 22, 2024, at Farnborough Airshow Jekta announced that it has selected ZeroAvia’s fuel cell power generation system technology for its aircraft.
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