An electric plane that transforms into a boat just flew its first human-crewed flight — Viceroy Seaglider has a 15,000lbs MTOW and will fly up to 180 miles
REGENT’s Viceroy has completed its first crewed flight, advancing an electric seaglider programme aimed at coastal travel and defence operations.
Regent Viceroy Seaglider successfully completed its first human-crewed flight above Narragansett Bay. The electric craft, capable of transforming between floating, hydrofoiling, and low-altitude flight modes, reached a height of 33 feet while traveling 1,956 feet during a brief 30-second test. The prototype carried two pilots, marking the largest human-carrying all-electric wing-in-ground-effect craft to accomplish such a feat.
This flight validates years of rigorous engineering and operational work, providing confidence for full-rate production. The production model will accommodate 12 passengers and two crew members, with a maximum takeoff weight of 15,000 lbs. Its planned speed of 180 mph and range of 180 miles between coastal destinations make it ideal for transportation on coastal routes, where ports already exist without the need for traditional airport infrastructure.
REGENT has secured orders spanning six continents, with manufacturing set to begin at a 255,000-square-foot facility in Rhode Island. The craft's innovative design allows for smooth and safe operation, using a three-layer digital control system to maintain stability while enabling mariners to navigate it like traditional watercraft.
Certified mariners will operate the vessels, and the United States Coast Guard will oversee operations within American waters.
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