2024 05 08 210722
Jekta, a Swiss electric amphibian aircraft start-up, has released new interior designs for its innovative PHA-ZE100 electric amphibious aircraft. The aircraft is a 19 passenger, 3 crew member aircraft that is electric powered, amphibious aircraft with both floats and retractable landing gear for conventional runways.
The aircraft is designed to accept either batteries or a green hydrogen fuel cell, with solar panels and geothermal walls to be as energy efficient and green as possible. A flexible aircraft able to fly from water or land, with retractable landing gear, the aircraft opens new potential short-haul routes from major cities with waterways to nearby destinations that would be difficult to drive or reach by train. India’s Mahair Airlines, who ordered 50 PHA-ZE100 aircraft will likely be the launch operator.
This week, Jekta released renderings of the interior for the aircraft, which will fly in 2026 and likely enter service by 2028-2029. A 19 seat interior will be available for commuter operations, and an executive interior for corporate or charter operators. Both interiors were developed in conjunction with MB Vision, the noted industrial design firm.Â
“We believe these interiors express our ambition of creating a disruptive, original style of travel within a new mode of transport. We have created an elegant cabin for airlines flying multiple legs daily alongside a stylish cabin that adheres to the principles of being environmentally friendly internally and externally. This highlights our commitment to providing a zero-emissions airframe that supports many applications,” explains Max Pinucci, who heads industrial design for JEKTA.Â
“Our interiors follow all the necessary certification requirements yet set new standards of elegance and functionality to create an unparalleled on-board experience. We want our customers not just to fly but to feel that they are travelling in an environment designed around their needs, comfort, and safety. At the same time, we are meeting the operators’ needs in terms of ease of maintenance, operability, and profitability.”
The Bottom Line
In an age of Urban Air Transport VTOLs, an alternative using rivers, lakes, or airports with electric power provides a unique option that is particularly well suited to a number of markets. Markets with coastal cities, islands, or rivers are ideal for an alternative approach to green aviation for regional travel. The Jekta PHA-ZE100 could fit well in multiple markets. Â
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Why is it powered by 10 electric motors? I’d always thought a smaller number of large propellers was more efficient than a large number of small propellers. What gives? This design also appears to maximise the airflow disruption over the wing and the interference drag (Noting that I am *not* an aeronautical engineer, just an enthusiast).