Regent, the Peter Thiel-backed US aerospace company behind the all-electric seaglider, has received firm deposits from New Zealand-based Ocean Flyer as part of a commercial agreement to add seagliders to its vehicle fleet.

The deal marks what is believed to be the largest private transportation deal in New Zealand's history and increases Regent's global footprint into the Southern Hemisphere. Regent seagliders provide harbour-to-harbour, overwater transportation at a fraction of the cost, noise and emissions of existing regional transportation modes like aircraft and ferries. Ocean Flyer is a new business established by the team that acquired New Zealand aircraft charter, management and ground handling provider Air Napier in 2018.

“We are thrilled to partner with Ocean Flyer to bring safe, zero-carbon, low-cost and fast transportation to the people of New Zealand,” says Regent CEO Billy Thalheimer. “The seaglider will enable New Zealand to contribute to meeting its sustainability goals, protect its natural resources and connect its citizens across its islands with reliable and affordable options.”

Ocean Flyer's purchase order includes 25 seagliders comprising 15 Viceroys, each holding up to 12 passengers, and 10 Monarchs, which can hold up to 100 passengers. The transaction is valued at over $427 million.

“Sustainability is a gift we owe to future generations. We all know our generation must take action now to achieve carbon neutrality. Regent's visionary transport solution enables us to empower people and businesses by offering an affordable, sustainable choice,” says Ocean Flyer CEO Shah Aslam. “Ocean Flyer is leading real change by introducing one of the most impactful transport sustainability initiatives of the 21st century to New Zealand, connecting communities and helping drive higher productivity and efficiency.”

The Regent seaglider is an all-electric flying vessel that combines the speed, comfort and navigation systems of an aircraft with the convenience, manoeuvrability and affordability of a boat. Regulated and certified by maritime authorities, the seaglider will transport commercial passengers and critical cargo up to 180 miles at nearly 180 mph with existing battery technology. Leveraging existing dock infrastructure, Regent's seaglider floats, foils and flies. From the dock and while in the no wake zone, the vehicle will float on its hull. Upon reaching 20 mph, it will rise on its retractable hydrofoil. Hydrofoils offer significant wave tolerance and enhanced passenger comfort as the vehicle leaves the crowded city harbour at speeds between 20-40mph. Upon reaching open water, the vehicle smoothly transitions onto its wing, retracts the foil and accelerates to a comfortable 180 mph cruise speed, all while staying within a wingspan of the water's surface. Flight safety at these altitudes is achieved utilising a multiple-redundant, state-of-the-art navigation and control system. Similar to a hovercraft, seagliders fly on a dynamic air cushion created by the pressurised air between the wings and the water. The aerodynamic advantage of this so-called ground effect includes significant operational efficiencies, increased payload capability and greater range.

Regent's first vehicle is projected to operate under Coast Guard jurisdiction; its design basis agreement with the Coast Guard is in process, and we maintain a close line of communication with both the Coast Guard (Office of Engineering Standards) and FAA (Emerging Concepts & Innovation group). Seagliders will provide regional coastal connectivity and the company believes its flagship vehicle will safely transport commercial passengers by 2025.