Japan Airlines Innovation Fund has invested in electric boat-flying machine producer Regent’s electric sea gliders, marking the first step in the exploration of incorporating sea gliders into JAL’s global network and highlighting its commitment to sustainable transportation.
“We believe sea gliders are a safe, sustainable and economical solution and we are excited to work with Regent to assess demand not only in Japan but around the world,” said Executive Officer, Senior Vice President of Digital Innovation at JAL, Yasushi Noda.
Sea gliders are a new mode of transport that combines the high speed of an aircraft with the low operating cost of a boat. The all-electric, zero-emission vessels operate over the water and leverage existing dock infrastructure to carry people and goods up to 290km between coastal destinations.
Regent will begin sea trials for the vehicles this year, and the latest round of investment by JAL brings it one step closer to its goal of flying commercially in 2025.
In addition to the investment, Regent and JAL are working together to explore opportunities for ecosystem development, bringing together relevant stakeholders to deliver the benefits of sea gliders to new and underserved markets.
