Jekta Signs $1 Billion Deal for 30 Electric Seaplanes

Electric seaplane developer Jekta has secured a significant milestone, signing a leasing agreement for 30 of its zero-emission PHA-ZE 100 aircraft. In a press release on September 5, 2024, the company announced its first leasing partnership with Solyu, a South Korean lessor. The deal, valued at over $1 billion, positions Jekta as a key player in sustainable aviation, with Solyu set to provide financial and leasing solutions for the PHA-ZE 100 fleet.

“We are excited by the potential that the PHA-ZE 100 gives to our clients, which can optimize the sustainable qualities of Jekta aircraft to expand and open new markets,” said Andrew Claerbout, Chief Executive Officer of Solyu. He highlighted the aircraft’s low operating costs, flexible configurations, and zero-emission operations as key factors that make it an attractive option for customers. “The minimal infrastructure requirements needed to support PHA-ZE 100 operations are also attractive, and we expect strong interest from our customers in both the hydrogen and electric variants.”

The PHA-ZE 100 is an amphibious aircraft designed to operate with both electric and hydrogen propulsion systems, making it a sustainable solution for regional travel. The 19-seat aircraft is particularly suited for coastal, island, and remote areas, offering the ability to take off and land on water with waves up to 1.2 meters. In addition to coastal waters, the PHA-ZE 100 can operate on lakes, rivers, and traditional runways, providing versatile travel options.

Designed for short-haul routes, the PHA-ZE 100 allows for low-cost, environmentally friendly transportation between cities without the need for extensive land-based infrastructure. Its amphibious capabilities open new opportunities for routes that may not have been economically viable with traditional aircraft, making it a promising solution for underserved regions.

Jekta’s electric seaplane is expected to be certified to EASA CS-23 and US FAA FAR-23 standards for fixed-wing passenger aircraft, ensuring it meets the highest safety and operational requirements for commercial aviation. The company’s focus on sustainability, along with the growing demand for zero-emission travel, positions the PHA-ZE 100 as a game-changer in the regional aviation market.

The leasing agreement with Solyu marks a significant step for Jekta in bringing its innovative aircraft to the market. Solyu’s involvement will provide much-needed financial support, helping airlines and operators access the PHA-ZE 100 and incorporate it into their fleets. Claerbout noted that the aircraft’s hydrogen and electric variants, combined with its cost efficiency and versatility, will likely attract strong interest from a variety of clients looking to expand into sustainable aviation.

As the aviation industry shifts towards greener technologies, the partnership between Jekta and Solyu highlights the growing interest in electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft. The PHA-ZE 100’s unique capabilities make it an ideal solution for short regional routes, particularly in areas where infrastructure development is challenging or costly.

This agreement is a major development for Jekta, and it signals the beginning of a new era in eco-friendly aviation. The PHA-ZE 100 is poised to play a key role in the future of sustainable air travel, offering an innovative solution for connecting remote and coastal regions.