JEKTA Unveils 1:9 Scale Model of Zero-Emission PHA-ZE 100 Amphibious Aircraft During Ongoing Flight Tests in Italy – African Business Innovation

JEKTA, the Swiss manufacturer developing the innovative PHA-ZE 100 zero-emission amphibious aircraft, has released new images of its 1:9 scale model, now actively supporting flight and water-testing campaigns in Italy. The detailed model is being used to collect performance data that directly reflects the behavior of the full-size Passenger Hydro Aircraft – Zero Emissions 100.

Highly Representative Scale Model for Advanced Testing

Although the final production configuration will be refined as testing continues, the 1:9 scale aircraft closely mirrors the expected design of the full-size PHA-ZE 100 flying boat. Key elements include:

• Distributed electric propulsion using eight electric motors

• Advanced aerodynamic layout optimized for efficiency

• Large cockpit and cabin windows for enhanced visibility and passenger comfort

Testing both in flight and on water helps validate aerodynamic and hydrodynamic behavior early in the development cycle, accelerating the aircraft’s path to certification.

Testing in Italy Builds on Historic Seaplane Expertise

Trials are underway in Italy under the supervision of JEKTA Head of Design, Max Pinucci. Italy’s rich heritage in seaplane innovation continues to influence the aircraft’s next-generation design philosophy, providing valuable context for the PHA-ZE 100’s continued evolution.

JEKTA Strengthens Development Toward 2030 Entry Into Service

George Alafinov, JEKTA CEO and co-founder, highlighted the importance of the scale-model program:

“The 1:9 scale model is large enough to provide data representative of the full-size aircraft and is allowing us to efficiently expand the test envelope while verifying data already collected in our computer modelling. We will continue to refine the aircraft configuration based on findings from the model testing and feed back into our digital models, ensuring the aircraft’s maturity as we work towards introducing it to the global air transport network in 2030.”

Since its initial reveal in 2022, the PHA-ZE 100 has attracted over USD $1.35 billion in customer commitments, signalling strong demand for clean, efficient regional air mobility. Production is planned to begin in 2030/2031.

About JEKTA

JEKTA is led by CEO George Alafinov and supported by a globally experienced team with more than 20 years of flying-boat design and manufacturing expertise. Their portfolio includes Ultralight Aircraft (ULA) and 8-seat amphibious aircraft, positioning the company to deliver a new class of sustainable regional mobility solutions.

About the PHA-ZE 100

The PHA-ZE 100 is an all-electric, all-composite amphibious flying boat powered by hydrogen fuel-cell technology. Designed to meet Part 23 certification standards, the aircraft offers:

• Sustainable regional passenger transport

• VVIP and corporate shuttle configurations

• Medevac and cargo variants

• Low operating costs and flexible interior layouts

• Enhanced comfort and reduced environmental impact

Engineered for versatility, the PHA-ZE 100 will operate:

• In coastal waters with waves up to 1.2 meters

• On lakes and inland waterways

• On paved or unpaved runways via retractable wheeled landing gear

The PHA-ZE 100 aims to redefine clean aviation with zero emissions, high efficiency, and multi-environment capability.