US aerospace startup REGENT Craft says its Viceroy Seaglider prototype operated what it described as the world's first flight of the largest-ever all-electric wing-in-ground-effect (WIG) craft to fly with people on board.
The company said the brief flight took place on 2 September over Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island, where REGENT is headquartered, with the prototype covering 1,956 ft (596 m) in approximately 30 seconds at an altitude of about 33 ft (10 m).
REGENT said the test moves the Viceroy programme into a new phase of sea trials as it works toward production of a 12-passenger vehicle.
The production Viceroy is planned to carry 12 passengers and two crew members, with a maximum speed of 180 mph and range of up to 180 miles, according to the company.
