Swiss startup Jekta is making steady progress with the development of its all-electric amphibious aircraft after announcing an agreement with key supplier Honeywell last month and has plans to flight test propulsion systems by the end of next year. The PHA-ZE 100 (Passenger Hydro Aircraft Zero Emission) is the largest amphibious aircraft in development and when completed will be the world's first electrically powered seaplane. Jekta, which has founded in 2021 is building the 19-seat PHA-ZE 100 to be powered by either batteries or hydrogen fuel cells with an initial projected flight endurance of one hour and a 30-minute reserve. The aircraft features a composite fuselage, without the floaters normally fitted to amphibious aircraft. The PHA-ZE 100's design and low weight increase aerodynamic and fuel efficiency, which when combined with electrical propulsion enables operating costs for amphibious aircraft by 70, according to Jekta. Potential applications for the aircraft include eco-tourism and regional transport. The company plans for the PHA-ZE 100 to enter service in 2029.
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