Technology & Innovation
REGENT Viceroy Seaglider Completes Crewed Hydrofoil Trials in 2025
REGENT’s Viceroy seaglider achieves successful hydrofoil trials, advancing electric maritime aviation toward commercial launch by 2026.
REGENT Craft’s successful crewed hydrofoil trials with its Viceroy seaglider prototype mark a pivotal leap in electric maritime aviation, positioning the Rhode Island-based company at the forefront of coastal transportation innovation. Achieved in late June 2025, this milestone is the second of three critical operational modes, following float trials and preceding flight testing, required for the world’s first passenger-carrying seaglider to enter commercial service. With a global order book exceeding $9 billion and a clear regulatory pathway via maritime authorities, REGENT’s approach to ground-effect flight promises to transform regional mobility by merging the speed of aircraft with the convenience and regulatory simplicity of maritime vessels.
The Viceroy seaglider’s recent hydrofoil trials not only validate its technical design but also signal a new era for sustainable, high-speed coastal travel. As battery technology and regulatory frameworks evolve, REGENT’s success may serve as a blueprint for future Electric-Aviation solutions, with implications for both economic development and environmental stewardship.
REGENT Craft was founded in 2020 by Billy Thalheimer and Mike Klinker, both MIT-trained aerospace engineers with backgrounds at Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing subsidiary. Their vision was to address the limitations of electric aviation, particularly range constraints imposed by current battery technology, by developing a hybrid maritime-aviation vehicle. The result is the seaglider, a ground-effect craft that leverages the physics of flying close to the water’s surface to maximize efficiency.
The core principle behind the seaglider is ground effect: when an aircraft flies within one wingspan of a surface, it benefits from increased lift and reduced drag, effectively doubling the range compared to conventional electric aircraft at higher altitudes. The Viceroy seaglider operates in three modes: floating like a boat, hydrofoiling above the waves for efficient surface transit, and flying in ground effect within 65 feet of the water’s surface. This tri-modal operation is made possible by a team combining aerospace and marine engineering expertise, resulting in a vessel designed from the ground up for maritime environments.
Unlike traditional seaplanes, which are essentially aircraft with floats, the Viceroy is engineered as a maritime vessel with integrated flight capabilities. Its deep V-shaped hull and retractable hydrofoils are optimized for smooth transitions between modes, and its control systems are tailored for both water and air operations. This design philosophy is a direct response to the shortcomings of earlier ground-effect vehicles, such as the Soviet-era ekranoplans, which lacked wave tolerance and maneuverability.
The June 2025 hydrofoil trials in Narragansett Bay validated the Viceroy’s ability to transition from hull-based operation to hydrofoil mode, lifting its 15,000-pound mass above the water on retractable foils. This followed initial float-mode testing in March 2025, where the prototype, dubbed “Paladin,” first entered the water with a crew. During hydrofoil trials, the Viceroy accelerated on its hull, rose onto its foils, maintained stable flight above the surface, and then returned to hull mode, demonstrating the seamless integration of maritime and aerospace technologies.
Co-founder and CTO Mike Klinker described the experience as “surreal,” emphasizing its significance as a milestone for both REGENT and the broader field of electric maritime aviation. The hydrofoil system addresses historical limitations of ground-effect vehicles by enabling stable, efficient operation in varying sea conditions, targeting speeds up to 50 knots, about double that of conventional production hydrofoils.
The successful hydrofoil trials also highlight the practical benefits of this intermediate mode: improved maneuverability, smoother handling in rough seas, and enhanced passenger comfort. These factors are essential for commercial viability and set the stage for the final phase of testing, full ground-effect flight. “This is a major milestone and a powerful validation of the years of innovation, grit, and world-class engineering our team has poured into this vision.” — Billy Thalheimer, REGENT CEO
The Viceroy seaglider is a 55-foot-long vehicle with a 65-foot wingspan, designed to carry 12 passengers or 3,500 pounds of cargo, with a maximum takeoff weight of 15,400 pounds. Its propulsion system employs 12 electric motors (six per wing) powered by advanced batteries, enabling a range of 180 miles with current technology. REGENT anticipates that future battery advancements could extend this range to 400–500 miles.
In ground-effect flight, the Viceroy can reach speeds of up to 180 mph, while its hydrofoil mode targets 50 knots. The low-altitude flight envelope (within one wingspan of the water) not only boosts aerodynamic efficiency but also ensures compatibility with maritime traffic and infrastructure. The composite-intensive construction, in partnership with Moore Brothers Co., provides the necessary structural integrity while minimizing weight.
Advanced control systems enable seamless transitions between float, foil, and fly modes, a capability that distinguishes the Viceroy from previous attempts at ground-effect vehicles. Months of rigorous subsystem testing, including motors, batteries, electronics, and control software, preceded the crewed trials, reflecting REGENT’s commitment to safety and reliability.
REGENT’s market traction is substantial, with over $9 billion in global Orders from more than 600 customers spanning six continents. This demand comes from Airlines, ferry operators, freight companies, and leasing organizations, illustrating the broad appeal of the seaglider concept. Notable customers include Mesa Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, Southern Airways Express, Brittany Ferries, and FRS.
Southern Airways, operating under the Mokulele Airlines brand, is slated to be the first commercial operator, aiming to reduce inter-island travel costs in Hawaii significantly. UrbanLink Air Mobility recently increased its Viceroy order to 47 units, further signaling market confidence. Internationally, New Zealand’s Ocean Flyer and a joint venture in the UAE with Strategic Development Fund highlight the global reach.
REGENT has raised over $100 million in investment from Founders Fund, Lockheed Martin, Japan Airlines Innovation Fund, Hawaiian Airlines, and others. The company projects an $11 billion addressable market, potentially expanding to $25 billion as battery technology improves. The economic case extends beyond passenger transport to include cargo, emergency response, and defense applications, with the U.S. Marine Corps already partnering for logistics and search and rescue missions.
“86% of coastal residents would be interested in using seagliders for regional coastal travel.” — REGENT global survey
One of REGENT’s key advantages is its regulatory strategy. The Viceroy qualifies as a Type A Wing-In-Ground Effect (WIG) craft under International Maritime Organization guidelines, allowing it to be certified by maritime authorities rather than aviation agencies. In the U.S., the Coast Guard oversees certification, and REGENT submitted its Design Basis Agreement (DBA) in March 2025, outlining how the seaglider meets safety standards equivalent to traditional vessels.
The Coast Guard’s approval of the DBA, expected by mid-2025, will allow REGENT to proceed to the final design and inspection phase. Recent federal legislation also requires the FAA and Coast Guard to clarify their roles regarding WIG vehicles, potentially streamlining regulatory oversight. For international operations, REGENT has partnered with Lloyd’s Register to ensure compliance with regional maritime authorities. Maritime regulation offers more flexibility and lower costs compared to aviation certification, focusing on structural soundness, technical standards, and equipment requirements. This pathway is essential for the economic viability of seagliders, enabling faster deployment and broader market access.
REGENT is building a 255,000-square-foot manufacturing facility at Quonset Business Park in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, scheduled to be operational by mid-2026. This site will handle component manufacturing, final assembly, and pre-delivery testing, leveraging Rhode Island’s maritime composites expertise and coastal testing environments.
The facility is expected to create 300 jobs initially, with the potential to grow to 750 over the next decade, supported by state incentives totaling up to $17 million. Its location near established defense and marine manufacturers provides access to a skilled workforce and specialized suppliers.
Internationally, a joint venture with Abu Dhabi’s Strategic Development Fund will establish manufacturing, maintenance, and training capabilities in the UAE, supporting Middle East operations and expanding REGENT’s global footprint. First Viceroy deliveries are targeted for 2026–2027, with Mokulele Airlines expected to be the launch operator.
REGENT’s seaglider development is part of a broader movement toward electric aviation and sustainable transportation. Unlike most advanced air mobility initiatives focused on urban environments, REGENT addresses coastal markets, leveraging existing maritime infrastructure and regulatory pathways. Its technical approach overcomes the range limitations of battery-powered aircraft and the operational shortcomings of historic ground-effect vehicles.
Strategic Partnerships with airlines and ferry operators, along with strong backing from aerospace and transportation investors, validate REGENT’s market positioning. As battery technology advances and regulatory clarity improves, the company is poised to scale operations both domestically and internationally.
The economic and technological ripple effects of REGENT’s success could establish Rhode Island as a global hub for the blue economy, attract further investment, and serve as a model for sustainable regional transportation worldwide.
“REGENT is a true Rhode Island success story and a cornerstone of our state’s blue economy future.” — K. Joseph Shekarchi, Rhode Island House Speaker
REGENT’s hydrofoil trials mark a watershed moment for electric maritime aviation, validating the technical and commercial viability of the seaglider platform. With regulatory approval on the horizon, a robust manufacturing pipeline, and strong market demand, REGENT is on track to launch commercial operations by mid-decade. The company’s integrated approach, melding aerospace and maritime technologies, has overcome historical barriers and set a new standard for innovation in coastal transportation. Looking ahead, continued advancements in battery technology, regulatory frameworks, and international partnerships will shape the seaglider’s trajectory. As REGENT moves toward flight testing and commercial deployment, its achievements may not only redefine coastal mobility but also catalyze broader shifts toward sustainable, high-speed regional travel.
What is a seaglider? How fast and how far can the Viceroy seaglider travel? How is the seaglider regulated? When will commercial operations begin? What markets are targeted for seaglider deployment? Sources: Aviation Week, Regent
REGENT’s Seaglider Hydrofoil Breakthrough: Advancing Electric Maritime Aviation Toward Commercial Reality
Revolutionary Technology Foundation and Company Genesis
Breakthrough Hydrofoil Testing Achievement
Technical Specifications and Operational Capabilities
Market Demand and Commercial Financial Outlook
Regulatory Framework and Certification Pathway
Manufacturing Infrastructure and Production Timeline
Industry Context and Future Outlook
Conclusion
FAQ
A seaglider is an electric ground-effect vehicle that operates over water in three modes: floating, hydrofoiling, and flying close to the water’s surface, combining features of boats and aircraft.
The Viceroy can reach speeds up to 180 mph in flight mode and 50 knots in hydrofoil mode, with a current range of 180 miles, expected to increase as battery technology advances.
The Viceroy is certified as a maritime vessel (Type A WIG craft) by the U.S. Coast Guard and other maritime authorities, not by aviation regulators, allowing for a more streamlined and cost-effective certification process.
Commercial deliveries are targeted for 2026–2027, with Mokulele Airlines in Hawaii expected to be the first operator.
REGENT’s initial markets include coastal passenger transport, cargo, emergency response, and defense, with customers and partners across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania.
Photo Credit: REGENT
Sustainable Aviation
Shell Secures Long-Term Deal for Egypt’s First Commercial-Scale Sustainable Aviation Fuel Plant
Shell partners with Green Sky Capital to purchase sustainable aviation fuel from Egypt’s first commercial-scale plant, targeting 145,000 tonnes annually by 2027.
This article is based on an official press release from Shell.
Shell has officially entered into a long-term agreement to purchase sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Green Sky Capital, a renewable fuel developer focused on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The deal, announced recently, secures 100 percent of the output from what is slated to be Egypt’s first commercial-scale SAF production facility.
This offtake agreement provides the necessary commercial certainty for investors to proceed with the construction of the plant. According to the company’s announcement, the facility is expected to commence operations by the end of 2027. Once fully operational, it will significantly bolster the supply of low-carbon fuels in the region and support the aviation industry’s broader decarbonization goals.
The partnership between Shell and Green Sky Capital marks a significant step in scaling global SAF availability. By committing to purchase the entire output of the facility, Shell is effectively de-risking the project for its developers and financiers.
The new plant is projected to produce up to 145,000 tonnes of SAF annually. In addition to aviation fuel, the facility will generate bionaphtha and biopropane as by-products. Shell reports that the use of these fuels is expected to contribute to a yearly reduction of up to 500,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions.
While specific location details were not itemized in the press statement, industry data suggests the facility will be a cornerstone of Egypt’s renewable energy infrastructure. The operational target is set for late 2027, aligning with increasing global mandates for SAF usage.
Geoff Mansfield, Vice President of Low Carbon Fuels at Shell Trading, emphasized the strategic importance of the deal in a statement included in the release:
“By securing 100% of the plant’s output, Shell is strengthening its global supply network for low-carbon fuels and helping aviation meet decarbonisation targets.”
This agreement reflects Shell’s broader strategy to become a net-zero emissions energy business by 2050. The company has been aggressively expanding its logistics and supply capabilities to meet the growing demand from airlines facing both regulatory mandates and voluntary sustainability commitments. According to data released by the company, Shell has established itself as a dominant player in the SAF market:
Shell attributes this market position to long-term agreements with producers, strong customer relationships, and strategic investments in logistics infrastructure around key airports and terminals.
Green Sky Capital serves as the developer for this project. It is identified as a regional renewable-fuel development platform operating within the MENA region. It is important to note that this entity is distinct from the U.S.-based fintech firm GreenSky, LLC, and the Canadian venture capital firm GreenSky Ventures. This project is part of a wider consortium often referred to as the Egyptian Sustainable Aviation Fuel Company (ESAF), involving collaboration with Egyptian state entities.
The Critical Role of Offtake Agreements
At AirPro News, we observe that 100 percent offtake agreements, like the one signed between Shell and Green Sky Capital, are becoming the “gold standard” for greenfield SAF projects. The primary barrier to entry for new SAF facilities is often not technology, but “bankability.” Lenders are hesitant to finance infrastructure costing hundreds of millions of dollars without guaranteed revenue streams.
By locking in a buyer for the entire 145,000-tonne capacity before the plant is even built, this deal effectively bridges the gap between planning and execution. It signals a maturing market where major energy traders are willing to bet on long-term supply rather than spot-market availability. Furthermore, locating this capacity in Egypt diversifies the global supply chain, reducing the industry’s heavy reliance on production hubs in North America and Western Europe.
When will the new facility begin production? How much fuel will the plant produce? What is the environmental impact? Who is buying the fuel?
Agreement Overview and Production Capacity
Facility Specifications and Timeline
Executive Commentary
Strategic Context and Market Position
Shell’s Global SAF Footprint
About Green Sky Capital
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Operations are expected to commence by the end of 2027.
The facility is designed to produce up to 145,000 tonnes of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) annually, along with bionaphtha and biopropane.
The production and use of fuels from this plant are expected to reduce carbon dioxide equivalent emissions by up to 500,000 tons per year.
Shell has signed a long-term agreement to purchase 100% of the facility’s output.
Sources
Photo Credit: Shell
Technology & Innovation
Archer Aviation Launches Miami Air Taxi Network with Key Partners
Archer Aviation plans a South Florida air taxi network using its Midnight eVTOL, partnering with Related Ross and Magic City Innovation District targeting launch in 2025.
Archer Aviation has officially announced its plans to launch a comprehensive air taxi network across South Florida, targeting one of the most congested corridors in the United States. In a press release issued this week, the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) manufacturer detailed a strategy to connect Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach using its “Midnight” aircraft.
The initiative aims to reduce travel times significantly in the region. According to Archer, flights that currently take 60 to 90 minutes by car could be reduced to approximately 10 to 20 minutes by air. The company is targeting a commercial launch as early as 2025, pending necessary Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifications.
To support this network, Archer has secured partnerships with high-profile real estate developers and infrastructure owners, distinguishing its plan with specific, tangible landing sites rather than theoretical locations.
A critical component of Archer’s announcement is the identification of specific “vertiport” locations anchored by influential local partners. The network relies on electrifying existing infrastructure and developing new sites within major commercial hubs.
In West Palm Beach, Archer is partnering with Related Ross, the development firm led by Stephen Ross, owner of the Miami Dolphins. The plan involves developing a dedicated vertiport within Related Ross’s downtown development. This partnership secures a premium hub in a high-growth commercial center, catering to business travelers and residents in the northern leg of the network.
For its Miami hub, Archer has selected the Magic City Innovation District in Little Haiti. The company plans to develop a vertiport within this mixed-use technology district, providing a landing spot close to downtown Miami. This location is intended to serve as a central node for passengers moving between the urban core and northern suburbs.
Beyond new developments, Archer is utilizing existing assets to accelerate its timeline:
“We are thrilled to work with such esteemed partners to bring the future of flight to South Florida,” said an Archer spokesperson in the company’s announcement.
South Florida has emerged as a primary battleground for the nascent Urban Air Mobility (UAM) industry. While Archer’s announcement solidifies its footprint, other operators are also vying for airspace in the region. Industry reports indicate a competitive race to launch services by 2026. UrbanLink, for instance, has announced plans to operate a network connecting similar cities, Miami, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale, using Lilium Jets. Similarly, UrbanX (a subsidiary of Global Crossing Airlines) is partnering with Eve Air Mobility to launch commuter flights, with a focus on community integration.
Archer’s strategy appears to differentiate itself through the specificity of its real estate partnerships. By naming concrete buildings and landlords like Related Ross and Hard Rock, the company is moving beyond general “letters of intent” toward physical infrastructure planning.
From the Editors: Archer’s announcement represents a shift from theoretical network mapping to tangible infrastructure acquisition. The involvement of Stephen Ross and Related Ross adds significant capital credibility to the West Palm Beach operations, potentially reassuring investors about the viability of the ground infrastructure, often the most expensive and complex part of the UAM equation.
However, the choice of the Magic City Innovation District in Little Haiti may present challenges. As noted in broader local reporting on Miami development, this district has faced community sensitivity regarding gentrification and displacement. While the location is geographically strategic, navigating local zoning and community approval processes in such a sensitive area will likely require careful engagement, distinct from the technical hurdles of FAA certification.
Archer’s “Midnight” aircraft is currently in the final stages of its certification program. The FAA has issued final airworthiness criteria for the aircraft, a necessary step before commercial operations can begin. While the company targets 2025 for its initial launch, widespread service scaling is generally projected by industry analysts to occur throughout 2026 as production ramps up and infrastructure comes online.
Local regulations also play a role. Miami-Dade County’s Transportation Planning Organization has been developing a framework for Urban Air Mobility, and Florida state statutes are being reviewed to accommodate vertiport zoning. Archer’s ability to activate existing helipads, such as those at Hard Rock Stadium, may allow for faster initial routes while new construction at sites like Magic City proceeds.
Archer is targeting a commercial launch as early as 2025, dependent on receiving final FAA certification for its Midnight aircraft.
Planned locations include a new vertiport in West Palm Beach (Related Ross), the Magic City Innovation District in Miami, and existing helipads at Hard Rock Stadium and Apogee Golf Club. Flights are projected to take between 10 and 20 minutes, replacing drives that can take 60 to 90 minutes in heavy traffic.
Archer Aviation Unveils Strategic Miami Air Taxi Network with Key Real Estate Partners
Anchoring the Network: Strategic Partnerships
West Palm Beach and Related Ross
Miami and the Magic City Innovation District
Leveraging Existing Infrastructure
Market Context and Competitive Landscape
AirPro News Analysis
Regulatory and Operational Timeline
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Archer’s Miami air taxi service launch?
Where will the air taxis land?
How fast are the flights?
Sources
Photo Credit: Archer Aviation
Technology & Innovation
Viettel and Vietnam Airlines Develop Proprietary Weather Alert System
Viettel Software and Vietnam Airlines collaborate to create a weather alert system providing real-time data for safer and more efficient aviation operations in Southeast Asia.
This article is based on an official press release from Viettel and Vietnam Airlines. See the original release for full details.
On November 28, 2025, Viettel Software Investment and Technology Co., Ltd. (Viettel Software) and Vietnam Airlines officially signed a strategic cooperation agreement to develop a proprietary Hazardous Weather Alert and Operational Support System. This collaboration marks a significant step in Vietnam’s aviation sector, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign technology while enhancing flight Safety through localized, data-driven intelligence.
According to the official announcement, the new system is designed to provide real-time meteorological data and impact assessments tailored specifically to the operational challenges of the Southeast Asian aviation environment. By integrating advanced weather monitoring directly into the national flag carrier’s infrastructure, the Partnerships seeks to optimize flight planning and improve decision-making during volatile weather events.
The agreement also highlights a broader push for digital sovereignty under the “Make in Vietnam” strategy, demonstrating the capacity of domestic technology firms to produce mission-critical aviation software.
The core of this partnership is the development of a specialized software platform capable of detecting and alerting operations teams to hazardous conditions such as turbulence, icing, and thunderstorms. Unlike standard consumer weather applications, this system is engineered to be “safety-critical,” meaning it must meet rigorous reliability standards required for aviation operations.
Viettel Software stated that the system will not merely display weather patterns but will actively analyze potential impacts across various flight phases, including takeoff, cruise, and landing. This capability allows flight dispatchers and pilots to proactively adjust routes, potentially reducing the risk of weather-related incidents.
To ensure the accuracy of its meteorological data, Viettel is expanding its collaboration with Weathernews Inc. (WNI), Japan’s largest private weather service. This integration ensures that the platform combines Viettel’s software engineering with high-precision global weather data.
“The system provides immediate notifications of hazardous weather conditions… allowing for proactive decision-making.”
, Summary of system capabilities based on Viettel press materials
Beyond safety, the system is expected to drive operational efficiency. By integrating weather intelligence into flight planning workflows, Vietnam Airlines aims to optimize fuel consumption and reduce delays caused by unnecessary diversions. The airline anticipates that more precise data regarding storm cells and clear air turbulence will allow for tighter, more efficient flight paths without compromising safety.
The timing of this development is particularly relevant given the increasing frequency of severe weather events in the Asia-Pacific region. Vietnam is frequently impacted by typhoons and tropical depressions, which pose significant logistical and safety challenges for airlines.
According to industry data, the region faces unique meteorological phenomena, such as rapidly developing tropical storm cells, which require high-frequency monitoring that generic global models may sometimes miss. By building a custom solution, Vietnam Airlines can tailor the system’s algorithms to prioritize the specific weather threats most common in its route network.
The following is an analysis by AirPro News regarding the competitive landscape of aviation weather technology.
Viettel’s entry into the aviation weather market places it in direct competition with established global heavyweights. Currently, the market for “4D Weather Situational Awareness” (tracking weather across latitude, longitude, altitude, and time) is dominated by providers such as Lufthansa Systems, SITA, and Honeywell.
For example, Lufthansa Systems’ Lido mPilot and SITA’s eWAS Pilot are widely considered industry standards, offering sophisticated vertical profile views of turbulence and icing. These systems are mature, globally tested, and integrated into the cockpits of major international carriers.
However, Viettel’s approach offers a distinct strategic advantage for Vietnam Airlines: data sovereignty and cost control. Licensing global “black box” solutions can be expensive and may offer limited customization. By developing a proprietary system, Vietnam Airlines retains ownership of its operational data and can iterate the software rapidly in response to local needs. If successful, this project could serve as a proof-of-concept for Viettel to export similar defense-grade or aviation-grade software to other regional carriers, challenging the dominance of Western tech providers in Southeast Asia-Pacific.
Who are the primary partners in this agreement? What is the role of Weathernews Inc. (WNI)? When was the agreement signed? Is this system available to other airlines?
Viettel and Vietnam Airlines Partner to Build Proprietary Weather Alert System
Technical Capabilities and Operational Integration
Real-Time Data and Impact Assessment
Operational Efficiency
Strategic Context: Aviation in a Volatile Climate
AirPro News Analysis: Competing with Global Giants
Frequently Asked Questions
The agreement is between Viettel Software (a subsidiary of Viettel Group) and Vietnam Airlines.
WNI acts as a strategic ally, providing the high-precision meteorological data that underpins the software developed by Viettel.
The strategic cooperation agreement was signed on November 28, 2025.
Currently, the system is being developed specifically for Vietnam Airlines. However, successful deployment could position Viettel to offer similar solutions to other operators in the future.
Sources
Photo Credit: Viettel
-
Commercial Aviation4 days agoAirbus Prioritizes Efficiency Over Range for A220 500 Stretch Variant
-
Commercial Aviation6 days agoWestern Global Airlines Furloughs Pilots After MD-11 Fleet Grounding
-
Training & Certification7 days agoEuropean Heli Center Begins Rotorbase Training Facility at Lelystad
-
Commercial Aviation5 days agoeasyJet Completes Software Updates After Airbus A320 Safety Recall
-
Regulations & Safety6 days agoAirbus Issues Fleet Action After Solar Radiation Incident on A320s