Aircraft maker Jekta Switzerland SA has been working on its electric passenger hydro aircraft project with a 100-mile range on just a single charge. Now, the company announced that it had obtained its first-ever order from Dubai-based broker Gayo Aviation & Tourism.
Its first customer, Gayo Aviation & Tourism, reportedly sent a letter of intent for ordering 10 Jekta’s electric seaplanes as part of its global push toward carbon neutrality.
Even if the companies have not yet revealed further details about the agreement, we can assume it would cost a lot, considering that large traditional seaplanes can cost over $1 million.
About the PHA-ZE 100
Jekta’s PHA-ZE 100 electric seaplane officially had its debut at the Abu Dhabi Air Show in 2022. On Facebook, the company declared that Jekta is now presenting a commercial displacement seaplane for the first time since the middle of the previous century.
“Therefore, it marks a special occasion that after a half century hiatus in new developments of this undeservedly forgotten segment of civil aviation the Swiss company announced a completely new amphibious passenger aircraft with a displacement body: the PHA-ZE 100.”
Jekta Switzerland SA (via Facebook)
The PHA-ZE 100 is equipped with ten motors and an electric propulsion system, enabling a power of 180 kW. According to the company, the electric seaplane can cruise at 135 knots for an additional 2 hours beyond its first 2-hour flight time.
Furthermore, the PHA-ZE 100 can apparently accommodate up to 19 passengers and three crew personnel in a variety of configurations.
George Alafinov, CEO of Jekta Switzerland SA, announced that the PHA-ZE 100 is set to officially operate in 2029.
Key features of the PHA-ZE 100
Below are the key features of Jekta’s electric seaplane, per its official website:
- Electric power plant
- Spacious cabin
- Capacity of 19 passengers and 3 crew members
- 30 minutes to fully charge
- Maximum safety
- Model options: Battery blocks and Green hydrogen fuel cells
- 45 minutes time to recharge
- Supplied with a solar power plant
CEO Alafinov also highlighted the potential of the PHA-ZE 100 in offering sustainable solutions in the tourism sector during the Abu Dhabi Airshow 2022.
“Investors, production partners, operators see the prospects of PHA-ZE 100 as the one to revive the economy of coastal and island states, significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and use its unique capabilities to operate in tourism sector while preserving nature in its original form. This is a further indication that we are on the right track, and is an inspiration for our team.”
George Alafinov, CEO of Jekta Switzerland S.A.
