Jetka’s bonkers flying boat is cruising into even crazier territory.
The Swiss company just announced it is partnering with ZeroAvia to extend the range and payload of the Passenger Hydro Aircraft Zero Emission 100 (PHA-ZE 100). The amphibious aircraft was initially conceived with a battery-electric powertrain, but ZeroAvia is adding hydrogen to the mix to enable longer, emission-free travel.
“We see the huge potential for creating zero-emission amphibious flights, and we believe hydrogen-electric propulsion will play a big role in this market,” ZeroAvia founder and CEO Val Miftakhov said in a statement shared on Tuesday.
The new variant will feature a fuel-cell system that turns hydrogen into electricity to power the motors. The innovative setup will push the seaplane’s range from 100 miles to 311 or 373 miles and increase the payload by up to a ton. Operating and maintenance costs can also be lowered, according to Jetka.
The PHA-ZE 100 landing on the water.
Jetka
ZeroAvia has made some good headway on the project, too. The British-American outfit is already flying a prototype of its hydrogen-electric powertrain (ZA600) in a 19-seat demonstrator aircraft, meaning that the system can be further tested and refined before it’s added to the PHA-ZE 100.
“The hydrogen system delivers a viable alternative to electric battery power that promises a significant increase in the range of our PHA-ZE 100, which will suit operators serving longer regional routes,” added Jetka CEO George Alafinov. “In contrast, the battery power option will suit shorter-range missions and operators flying in locations where electric power is more cost-effective and accessible.”
Jetka sees the PHA-ZE 100 helping shuttle commuters and tourists across archipelagoes with less noise and pollution than gas-powered aircraft. It will also be gentler on the environment than traditional competitors because water takeoffs and landings preclude the need for new airports.
The plane will be available in seven configurations that cater to high fliers, island hoppers, and everyone in between. The lineup includes a 19-passenger economy jet, a four-seat VIP model with a salon, and an executive version with four premium seats and nine economy seats. The PHA-ZE 100 can also double as an ambulance or cargo carrier, serving those in far-flung locations.
Jetka didn’t share a timeline regarding the launch of the hydrogen-powered PHA-ZE 100, but Alafinov previously told Robb Report customers will begin taking deliveries of the battery-powered variant in late 2028.
