Jekta, the Swiss company manufacturing the PHA-ZE 100 flying boat, said it entered an agreement under which Gayo Aviation intends to acquire 10 of the electrically powered amphibious aircraft.
Gayo, which has offices in Sweden and Dubai, is an international aviation services provider. The company said it plans to optimize the aircraft to suit a number of market segments, both established and emerging.
The aircraft are to be delivered in a 19-passenger configuration, and the transaction includes ground support equipment for servicing the aircraft’s batteries. The deal also includes tools and components for the first year of operation; training for two pilots and two technicians; and a three-year warranty of the airframes.
Gayo said it expects the aircraft to be used by tourism and charter operators seeking “to bolster their sustainable transport options.” The company also said it will offer the aircraft on lease for transport services in underserved markets.
“We are delighted to be the first customer to sign an LOI with Jekta for this impressive, versatile and comfortable airframe. We want to be among the first to provide our customers with a truly sustainable option to transport their passengers. With the potential to reduce per-passenger-per-hour costs by more than 70% compared to current seaplanes we can satisfy that need,” said Gisle Dueland, CEO of Gayo Aviation.
Selling points for the PHA-ZE 100 include its ability to operate on routes serving coastal and island communities, and routes that are limited by operating costs or a lack of support infrastructure. It can also be configured for specialized vacation operators who need to carry kayaks, scuba equipment, and other adventure-sports equipment.
