JEKTA Initiates Flight Testing for PHA-ZE 100 Program
JEKTA, a Swiss manufacturer of the Passenger Hydro Aircraft – Zero Emissions 100 (PHA-ZE 100) electric amphibious aircraft, has commenced flight trials with a 1:9 scaled prototype of its PHA-ZE 100 amphibious flying boat. The testing will focus on the distributed electric powerplant and aerodynamic configurations of the production aircraft.
The remotely controlled electric amphibious aircraft model will provide valuable data for the full-size aircraft, validating computational modeling results. These real-world flight tests are crucial for understanding aircraft performance during water landings, taxiing, and takeoff. The 1:9 aerodynamic prototype serves as a vital step in aircraft testing, ensuring the initial verification of key performance aspects.
Two amphibious flying boats are undergoing modifications as proof-of-concept aircraft to validate digital and physical data. These ultralight test beds are designed to mitigate risks and guide detailed design adjustments before the construction of a full-scale prototype.
JEKTA’s CEO, George Alafinov, expressed excitement about the progress, stating that the flight testing represents a significant milestone in bringing next-generation electric amphibious aircraft to the global market. The company aims to introduce the PHA-ZE 100 to the air transport network by 2030, showcasing the aircraft’s potential to investors and customers.
Conclusion of Amphibious Aircraft Testing in September
The flight testing of the 1:9 prototype is expected to conclude in September 2025 at an undisclosed location. JEKTA’s extensive experience in amphibious aircraft design, with a history of producing single-engine ultralight and twin-engine flying boats, has been instrumental in the testing process.
Alafinov emphasized the company’s expertise in amphibious aircraft design, assuring customers that the PHA-ZE 100 is built on a solid foundation of successful trial experiences.
PHA-ZE 100 Electric Amphibious Aircraft Progress
The JEKTA PHA-ZE 100 has garnered over USD$1 billion in commitments from customers, with production set to commence at the Payerne facility in 2028-2029. JEKTA will showcase its advancements at the Paris Airshow in the Swiss Pavilion, Hall 4, B63.
