NEOM, through its strategic arm NEOM Investment Fund, has announced the completion of an investment in the U.S.-based company "Regent," which specializes in the manufacturing of electric seaplanes. This step positions NEOM as the largest investor in the first phase of the company's development, as part of a multi-year partnership between NEOM and Regent, aiming to enhance NEOM's capabilities in the sustainable water mobility sector and enable it to provide advanced passenger transport services via seaplanes in the region, along with driving innovation and accelerating technological advancement at Regent.
As part of this partnership, Regent is committed to establishing a research, development, and training center in the Middle East, aiming to accelerate innovation in the electric seaplane field and develop the necessary infrastructure and operational processes. Starting in 2024, NEOM's young Saudi employees who have recently graduated in engineering and technology fields will have the opportunity to work with Regent, expanding their experience and getting to know its innovative technologies. The company will also conduct test flights in NEOM to enhance its readiness for initiating services and operations by the mid-decade.
Seaplanes are characterized by combining speed in air travel and the ease and comfort of boat sailing. They float at the dock, cruise above the waves, and then take off over the water at speeds of up to 180 miles per hour (289 kilometers per hour). The most significant aircraft at Regent, named "Viceroy," accommodates 12 passengers and offers comfort and an exceptional travel experience.
