News Summary
Rhode Island is set to become the first state in the U.S. to manufacture electric seagliders, with Regent Craft planning to launch the Viceroy model. This innovative craft, capable of combining aerial and maritime travel, will reduce travel times significantly and can carry cargo and passengers efficiently. The production facility in Quonset Business Park aims to support large global orders and create local jobs. With flight trials starting in 2025, this initiative represents a notable step forward in electric transportation.
Rhode Island is set to become the first state in the United States to produce electric seagliders, thanks to an initiative by Regent Craft. The company has announced plans to launch the Viceroy seaglider, a cutting-edge craft that combines the features of both airplanes and boats, allowing it to operate efficiently on water and in the air. With $10 billion in orders already secured, Regent is moving forward with the establishment of its first production facility in Rhode Island.
The Viceroy seaglider is designed to significantly cut travel time between coastal destinations. For example, it can reduce the journey from Miami to West Palm Beach from 1.5 hours by road to just 30 minutes. It reaches speeds of up to 180 mph (289 km/h) and is capable of servicing routes up to 186 miles (300 km) with current battery technology. Future advancements in battery technology could further extend its range.
This innovative vessel can transport up to 3,500 pounds (1,600 kg) of cargo and accommodate 12 passengers per trip, making it a versatile option for both personal and commercial travel. The Viceroy has drawn interest from major aviation entities such as United Airlines, Japan Airlines, the US Marine Corps, and the US Coast Guard, reflecting widespread industry support for this new form of transport.
Regent’s production facility will span 255,000 square feet (23,690 square meters) and is scheduled to be operational next year in Quonset Business Park. While the specific production capacity has not yet been disclosed, the facility is set to support the company’s substantial global orders. The Viceroy is expected to commence flight trials in 2025, with customer deliveries projected to start between 2026 and 2027. UrbanLink Air Mobility has already ordered 47 seagliders, with plans for them to be operational by 2027.
The Viceroy’s prototype, named Paladin, is a 12-passenger vehicle that has begun its sea trials, with the first flight planned over Narragansett Bay later this summer. To facilitate the production of these innovative vessels, Regent has received $4 million in state incentives, which will contribute to the creation of 300 jobs in the coming decade.
To ensure compliance with maritime regulations, Regent is collaborating closely with the Coast Guard. The company has already received approval for human sea trials and flight testing, paving the way for future operations. Professional mariners will be employed to operate the commercial seagliders, following extensive training on the advanced seaglider systems.
As Regent expands its operations in Rhode Island, the workforce will primarily comprise engineering and manufacturing roles, reflecting the company’s commitment to local job creation and technological innovation.
The launch of the Viceroy seaglider represents a significant step in the evolution of electric transportation, merging speed and efficiency while aiming to transform travel between coastal cities. With strong backing and a focus on regulatory compliance, Regent appears poised to make its mark in the aviation and maritime industries.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Providence Journal: First Electric Seaglider Testing
- Google Search: Regent Craft Seaglider
- WPRI: Electric Seaglider Crewed Trials
- Wikipedia: Electric Seagliders
- Turn to 10: Electric Sea Gliders in Rhode Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electric Seagliders
- Military Aerospace: Electric Seaglider Passengers Airborne
- Google News: Regent Craft
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
