MANILA -Lopez-led aviation firm INAEC has partnered with US-based company Regent to launch the latter’s electric seagliders line in the country, amid plans for a tourism commercial service using these zero-emission, marine aircraft.
INAEC Aviation Corp president Jay Lopez on Wednesday said these seagliders would be a game changer for the Philippines and these vehicles—a cross between a boat and a plane—would open up new opportunities to reach currently inaccessible islands and allow visitors to experience more of the country’s natural beauty.
“We’re excited to work with Regent to introduce innovative technologies like seagliders that are safe and affordable while being consistent with the Lopez Group’s strategic direction to provide environment friendly and sustainable modes of transport for travelers,” Lopez said in a statement.
Aviation services
INAEC, which is a member of the Lopez Group of Companies, offers a number of aviation services, including air transportation services, on demand charters, aircraft management, aircraft maintenance, medical evacuation, fixed base operations and aviation training.
Meanwhile, Regent CEO Billy Thalheimer said that seagliders were perfect for island nations like the Philippines, where communities are connected by shared coastal waterways and can benefit from more affordable and convenient mobility between them,
“We’re thrilled to have such strong alignment with INAEC in our shared mission to deliver safe, sustainable and memorable passenger experiences for all travelers,” said Thalheimer.
Regent seagliders are touted as a new category of maritime vehicle that combine the high speed of an airplane with the low operating cost of a boat. INQ