Regent Seaglider Scotland coastal transport

Regent’s All-Electric Seaglider Could Transform Coastal Travel in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

U.S.-based Regent Craft partners with HITRANS to explore the feasibility of deploying sustainable Seaglider vessels for inter-island transport, offering a faster, greener alternative to ferries.

Regent Craft, a U.S. maritime mobility innovator, has entered into a strategic collaboration with the Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS) to assess the feasibility of deploying its all-electric Seaglider vessels across Scotland’s rugged coastal regions. The initiative aims to revolutionize inter-island connectivity by replacing traditional ferry services with high-speed, zero-emission flying boats.

The Seaglider, a 55-foot vessel with a 65-foot wingspan and 12 propulsion units, operates exclusively over water in three modes: hull, hydrofoil, and flight in ground effect. It accommodates two crew members and up to 12 passengers. The first phase of the partnership focuses on data sharing and a feasibility study, with future steps involving engagement with local authorities and community stakeholders.

David Holden, HITRANS Regional Sustainable Aviation Manager, stated: “This is a hugely exciting prospect for transport in the Highlands and Islands. It has the potential to transform how people travel across this region in the future.”

Adam Triolo, Regent’s VP of Commercial Development, added: “Our work with HITRANS is an opportunity to showcase the human and environmental benefits Seaglider vessels could bring to Scotland’s coastal communities.”

Latest Developments – January 2026

• Phase Two of the feasibility study is now underway, with Regent supporting HITRANS in securing regulatory and environmental approvals.

• Local councils in Orkney and Shetland have expressed interest, citing the potential to reduce travel times and carbon emissions.

• The Seaglider is being positioned as a complement—not a replacement—to existing ferry infrastructure, especially for routes affected by weather disruptions.

• Regent’s Viceroy Seaglider model is expected to begin pilot demonstrations in late 2026, pending successful trials and funding support.

• Public feedback has been largely positive, with environmental groups praising the zero-emission design and tourism advocates highlighting its appeal for scenic travel.

Strategic Implications

The Seaglider project aligns with Scotland’s broader goals for sustainable transport and regional development. If successful, it could serve as a model for other coastal nations seeking to modernize their maritime mobility networks. The collaboration also highlights growing transatlantic partnerships in green technology and infrastructure innovation.

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Sources: North Kingstown, RI / Inverness, Scotland  & ©XAirForces News, 8 January 2026
(Regent Craft Official News - Aerospace Global News - Shetland News)

Photo: Regent Craft and HITRANS are exploring the deployment of all-electric Seaglider vessels to transform coastal travel in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands. Operating in hull, hydrofoil, and ground effect modes, Seagliders offer a fast, sustainable alternative to Traditional ferries. (Photo by ©Regent Craft and HITRANS)

Editor: Osman Tüfekci (©XAirForces Defense Aviation and New Technologies News Editor from Turkiye)

Keywords:  all-electric coastal transportationcoastal mobilityelectric flying boatelectric flying boat for inter-island travelfuture of ferry alternatives in Scotlandground effect flightHighlands and IslandsHITRANSHITRANS sustainable transport partnershiphydrofoilhydrofoil and ground effect aircraftRegent CraftRegent Craft environmental transport innovationRegent Seaglider feasibility study ScotlandScotland transportSeagliderSeaglider pilot program in ScotlandSeaglider vessel for Highlands and Islandssustainable travelUKUnited Kingdomzero-emission maritime mobility

Regent Seaglider Scotland coastal transport


(8.01.2026)