JAL aims to bring 'seaglider' next-gen transportation to Japan

Japan Airlines is moving into the development of an electric-powered vehicle that glides several meters over water on a cushion of air for carbon-free transportation. JAL has inked an agreement with U.S. startup Regent Craft to operate and sell the exotic electric sea craft in Japan. Seagliders are attracting attention as a new means of passenger and cargo transportation, offering low-cost, safe and high-speed flight. Regent is a world leader in its development. JAL will assist with measures necessary for operating the gliders in Japan, such as exploring the parameters of safe flight operations, developing test-flight infrastructure and collaborating on obtaining certification. Regent will develop the gliders themselves and JAL subsidiary Jalux will sell them in Japan. If put into practical use, the gliders will not only help alleviate traffic congestion, but also serve as a transportation option with a lower environmental impact than cars. JAL is looking to put its knowledge in aircraft safety and reliability to use in helping seagliders get off the ground in Japan. Regent was established in 2020 and JAL's corporate venture capital fund, the Japan Airlines Innovation Fund, invested in the company two years later. Japan's Yamato Holdings, U.S. regional carrier Mesa Airlines and Lockheed Martin are also investors. Regent aims to begin commercial operations in 2026. In fiscal 2025, the airline plans to generate about 40% of its earnings before interest and taxes from its non-aviation Mileage, Lifestyle and Infrastructure business, which includes the seaglider.<br/>