The world's largest seaplane makes its maiden flight

It has been reported that the full-size prototype of the electric seaplane Viceroy Seaglider has successfully completed its debut flight. At the same time, it also had its first passengers on board.


The creator of the new ocean vessel is the American startup Regent Craft (Rhode Island), which positions its development as the world's largest electric-powered aircraft.

The idea was borrowed

Seaglider is a modern high-tech interpretation of the old Soviet ekranoplan idea. Aircraft flies extremely low, within its wingspan from the ground, and the ground effect creates a kind of air cushion for it, due to which it moves forward. In this way, it receives additional lift, squeezing more kilometers of flight from the energy source. The new product demonstrates the optimal combination of conveniences boats with the comfort and speed of an airplane.

Delayed debut

It is reported that permission from the US Coast Guard to conduct flight tests of this hydrofoil aircraft was received last fall. However, for some reason, they took place only now.


This event was preceded by many years of work by the company, which was founded in 2020. In 2022, they first presented the first prototype of the liner in 1/4 scale. This was followed by months of testing, during which various on-board systems, propulsion systems, batteries and software were checked. And, almost three years later, they managed to launch a full-size example of the new vehicle.

Main characteristics

This model took direct part in the flight tests. Its dimensions completely coincide with the parameters of the future production model and are:

✅length - 16,8 m
✅wingspan – 19,8 m

The Viceroy Seaglider is said to be able to glide across the water as well as fly above it. The seaplane's cargo and passenger capabilities are currently limited to two crew members and twelve passengers. Instead of the latter, it can accommodate 1 kg of cargo.


When fully loaded, the model can travel 300 km on a single charge. The cruising speed of the new product is about 300 km/h, and the movement is carried out at an altitude of no more than 9-18 meters above the water level.

About plans

However, these figures are not final. As the project evolves and the battery market changes, the possibility of equipping the Viceroy Seaglider with 150 passenger seats is being considered, and perhaps this will increase its range.


As of now, the company claims that it has already formed a package of the first preliminary orders for a total of more than 9 billion dollars. This high-speed coastal transport has attracted interest from carriers around the world. It is being considered for use in both tourism and search and rescue operations.


According to recent reports, the first users of the Sea Glider will be Hawaii residents. Local company Mokulele Airlines plans to become the world's first Seaglider operator. The developer plans to begin deliveries of the "amphibious aircraft" in the near future. As for the cost of travel, according to preliminary calculations, the price of a ticket, for example, for a flight from Oahu to Maui (a distance of about 180 km) will be $30 (2600 rubles at the current exchange rate).