Watch: World’s First Full-Scale Crewed Seaglider Hits The Water

REGENT, a company specialising in all-electric seagliders, has launched the world’s first full-scale passenger-carrying prototype, Paladin.

The vessel has officially begun sea trials in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island.

This 12-passenger, 55 foot long, and 65 foot wingspan seaglider, known as the Viceroy prototype, is the largest-ever all-electric flying machine.

It is designed to operate in three modes: floating like a boat, rising on hydrofoils, and flying just above the water’s surface using the wing-in-ground (WIG) effect.

The vessel, which runs entirely on electric power, is being positioned as an efficient and sustainable alternative for cargo transport, passenger travel, and emergency response operations.

The launch of Paladin was carried out following maritime tradition, with a christening ceremony before it was lowered into the water for the first set of trials.

REGENT’s test captains have already conducted initial on-water tests, verifying the functionality of motors, batteries, electronics, mechanical systems, and vehicle control software.

These trials will continue, leading up to the first human-crewed seaglider flight, expected later this year.

Video Credits: REGENT Craft/YouTube

One of REGENT’s co-founders, who was present during the sea trials, described the moment as a historic step toward transforming mobility, stating that this is just the beginning of the journey toward commercial deployment.

The company founded in 2020 has rapidly advanced toward bringing the Viceroy seaglider to the market. It has already built a global order book exceeding $9 billion across six continents.

According to company representatives, the demand for seagliders has been validated globally, and their team is focused on expanding their reach and delivering the first operational vessels in the coming years.

The seagliders use wing-in-ground effect technology, which allows the vessel to fly low over water with greatly reduced drag compared to traditional aircraft.

The company believes seagliders will provide a more efficient and cost-effective solution for passenger travel, cargo transport, and emergency operations.

REGENT also broke ground in January on a new 255,000 square foot seaglider manufacturing facility at the Quonset Business Park in Rhode Island.

It also signed an agreement in February with an Abu Dhabi-based investment company Strategic Development Fund (SDF). This partnership will help establish seaglider manufacturing, maintenance, and crew training operations in the UAE.

Reference: regentcraft

Source: Maritime Shipping News