A deal between South Korean lessor Solyu and JEKTA, the Switzerland-based developer of the PHA-ZE 100 aircraft, for 30 of the latter’s amphibious aircraft sees advanced commitments for JEKTA’s zero-emissions aircraft total more than US$1 billion in value.
Having launched in December 2022, JEKTA’s strong order book underlines the growing demand for zero emissions amphibious aircraft and the role it can play for regional aviation. Seamlessly transitioning between land and water without additional hardware, JEKTA’s PHA-ZE 100 is optimised to serve coastal and island communities, regional routes currently limited by operational costs and to support new low-cost, sustainable services between cities without the need to install expensive land infrastructure.
Andrew Claerbout, Solyu’s CEO, cited the PHA-ZE 100’s “low operating costs, flexibility supported by versatile configurations and zero emissions operations” as valued added qualities for its clients seeking to maximise operational efficiencies while meeting the industry’s mandates on carbon emission reduction. “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,” he continued.
The deal also recognises the vast market and investment opportunity for operators from offering operators in Asia a zero-emissions amphibian aircraft. According to George Alafinov, CEO at JEKTA, “leasing companies play a crucial and influential role in the aerospace sector, offering operators financial flexibility and affordability to expand fleets and networks.”
He added that the deal “confirms that the wider aviation sector welcomes our vision of incorporating the benefits of amphibious operations into the global air transport system. With Solyu providing leasing and financing access to our aircraft, operators can sustainably develop new routes and support connections to those currently disconnected by water, doing so in style at low operating costs.”
JEKTA’s amphibious flying boat will be certified to EASA CS-23 and US FAR-23 standards for fixed-wing passenger aircraft. Flexible configurations, including 19-seat, mixed economy/ freight, VIP, corporate shuttle and air ambulance options make the most of the PHA-ZE 100’s spacious, contemporary cabin.
