JEKTA, the Swiss-based developer of next-generation amphibious aircraft, has officially launched flight testing of its 1:9 scale prototype of the Passenger Hydro Aircraft – Zero Emissions 100 (PHA-ZE 100). This milestone marks a major step forward in the company’s mission to deliver all-electric, zero-emission flying boats to the global market by 2030.
Using a distributed electric propulsion system powered by onboard batteries, the remotely piloted scale model is being used to validate the aircraft’s aerodynamic and hydrodynamic characteristics. These tests will confirm earlier computational simulations and provide vital data on water-based operations, including landing, taxiing, and takeoff performance.
“After extensive virtual trials and simulations, our engineers are excited to begin flying the 1:9 prototype,” said George Alafinov, CEO and co-founder of JEKTA. “The flight testing marks an important milestone on our journey to bring next-generation electric amphibious aircraft to operators globally.”
From Digital to Real-World Testing
Flight trials of the scale model are being conducted at an undisclosed location and are expected to continue through September. The real-world testing complements the digital modelling already completed and is intended to guide further design refinements.
Following the scaled model testing, two purpose-built ultralight amphibious aircraft — modified as proof-of-concept test beds — will be used to validate and cross-reference the digital and physical data. This multi-step approach is designed to derisk the program ahead of building the full-scale prototype.
“We are drawing on years of amphibious aircraft experience by basing our full-size test beds on ultralight aircraft of our design,” Alafinov added. “That experience means our customers can be confident that the PHA-ZE 100 is built on solid foundations by engineers who understand how to trial the real-world application of amphibious aircraft design successfully.”
A Vision for Sustainable Air Mobility
The all-electric, all-composite PHA-ZE 100 is being developed for a wide range of applications — from luxury tourism and experiential flight to regional passenger transport and civil missions. Designed to meet Part 23 certification standards, it will incorporate hydrogen fuel cell technology, zero emissions, and flexible configurations.
The amphibious aircraft will operate from lakes, rivers, coastal waters with wave heights up to 1.2 metres, and traditional runways using its retractable wheeled landing gear.
JEKTA plans to begin full-scale production at its Payerne facility in 2028/29. The program has already attracted more than USD $1 billion in forward commitments from customers worldwide.
Meet JEKTA at Paris Airshow
JEKTA is showcasing the PHA-ZE 100 and its development progress at the Paris Airshow, located in the Swiss Pavilion, Hall 4, B63.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: JEKTA
