Regent Craft Enters Foil Testing
Regent has begun foil testing for its electric seaglider aircraft, marking a critical milestone in the development of commercial wing-in-ground-effect vehicles. The Boston-based startup is conducting trials of its hydrofoil system that enables the aircraft to lift off from water surfaces.
The company's seaglider combines marine and aviation technologies to create a vehicle that operates in ground effect, flying just above the water's surface. This approach allows for increased efficiency compared to traditional aircraft while maintaining higher speeds than conventional watercraft.
Regent's prototype testing focuses on the transition from hydrofoil-assisted takeoff to ground effect flight. The electric propulsion system powers the craft through water taxi, takeoff, and low-altitude cruise phases across coastal routes.
"The foil testing represents years of engineering work coming together. We're validating the core technology that makes seaglider operations possible," said a Regent spokesperson.
The seaglider targets coastal transportation markets where traditional aviation infrastructure is limited. Routes between islands, coastal cities, and offshore platforms could benefit from the craft's ability to operate from existing docks and harbors.
Regent plans to scale from its current 12-passenger prototype to larger commercial variants. The company has secured orders from airlines and charter operators seeking alternatives to helicopter and small aircraft services for over-water routes.
Electric propulsion eliminates emissions during operation while the ground effect design reduces energy consumption compared to conventional flight. The combination addresses both environmental and operational efficiency requirements for short-haul transportation.
Federal Aviation Administration certification for the novel vehicle category requires extensive testing and validation. Regent is working with regulators to establish safety standards for commercial seaglider operations.
The foil testing phase will continue through 2025 as Regent refines the hydrodynamic and aerodynamic systems. Successful completion of testing milestones positions the company for pilot commercial operations in select markets.
Coastal transportation represents a significant market opportunity for electric aviation startups. Regent's seaglider approach offers a unique solution for routes where traditional aircraft face infrastructure or regulatory constraints.