Jekta Unveils Electric Seaplane Subscale Model for Flight Testing
Switzerland-based electric aircraft developer Jekta has taken a significant step forward in bringing its vision of sustainable amphibious aviation to market. On December 3, 2025, the company unveiled a 1:9 scale subscale model of the PHA-ZE 100, its fully electric amphibious aircraft, which is already conducting flight tests at an undisclosed location in Italy.
The subscale testing campaign represents a critical phase in Jekta’s development timeline. Data collected from these flight tests will directly inform the aerodynamic refinement and systems integration of the full-scale PHA-ZE 100 prototype. While the current design—created by renowned Italian designer Max Pinucci—closely represents the final configuration, Jekta acknowledges that modifications may be necessary based on test results.
During an interview at the Dubai Airshow 2025, Jekta founder George Alafinov confirmed the company’s ambitious development schedule. The full-scale prototype is targeted for first flight by the end of 2027, with entry into service projected for 2030-31. This timeline positions Jekta competitively within the emerging electric aircraft sector, where several manufacturers are racing to certify viable zero-emission platforms.
Complementing its aerodynamic development efforts, Jekta announced a strategic partnership with Innovative Aerosystems, a Pennsylvania-based avionics developer. Under this agreement, Innovative Aerosystems will customize its Liberty Integrated Flight Deck specifically for the PHA-ZE 100’s operational requirements. The customizations will incorporate features tailored for enhanced riverine and amphibious navigation, critical infrastructure for operations in remote regions with limited ground facilities.
A particularly significant aspect of this partnership involves single-pilot operations. The customized avionics suite will incorporate automation and decision-support features designed to reduce pilot workload—an essential capability for the lower operational costs that electric aircraft promise. This approach aligns with broader industry trends toward simplified cockpit operations and enhanced automation in next-generation aircraft.
The PHA-ZE 100 represents a compelling market opportunity. Fully electric amphibious aircraft address a genuine operational gap, enabling sustainable transport to remote communities, island regions, and areas with underdeveloped infrastructure. The electric powertrain eliminates noise pollution concerns that have historically limited seaplane operations, while zero emissions support environmental sustainability goals increasingly mandated by regional aviation authorities.
These developments underscore Jekta’s technical rigor and commercial pragmatism. By conducting subscale flight testing before full-scale prototyping, the company demonstrates engineering discipline that should inspire confidence among potential investors and eventual customers. The Innovative Aerosystems partnership further de-risks the program by addressing a complex integration challenge with an experienced partner.
Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764846046514-1141