The era of amphibious aircraft—planes capable of seamless water and runway landings—is being reinvigorated through modern engineering, sustainability, and mission-specific design. From hydrogen-powered ultralight prototypes to firefighting heavyweights, these five next-generation aircraft promise to redefine versatility in the skies.
1. Catalina II (Next-Generation Amphibious Aircraft, NGAA)
Reviving the iconic WWII PBY Catalina, the NGAA Catalina II is a modern, twin-turboprop flying boat aimed at civilian, commercial, and military operators. It offers improved fuel efficiency, corrosion-resistant materials, and support for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). The civilian version can carry up to 34 passengers or 12,000 lb of cargo, with a range of up to ~1,525 nm or more. Deliveries are anticipated in 2029.
2. Jekta PHA-ZE 100 (Electric/Hydrogen Hybrid Amphibian)
Swiss developer Jekta is pioneering a zero-emission amphibious aircraft. Their full-scale electric/hydrogen PHA-ZE 100 is currently in flight testing using scaled prototypes, with production slated for 2028–2029 and target launch around 2030.
3. Hynaero Fregate-F100 (Wildfire-Fighting Amphibian)
In a strategic partnership, Airbus is supporting French startup Hynaero to develop the Fregate-F100, a next-gen amphibious aircraft specialized for firefighting operations. The first prototypes are expected around 2029, with service entry anticipated around late 2031, under EASA certification.
4. AVIC AG600 (Dragon 600, China)
The AVIC AG600 is one of the world’s largest amphibious aircraft, designed for firefighting, maritime search and rescue, and remote operations. It received type certification from Chinese authorities in 2025, paving the way for deliveries.
5. Elfly Noemi (All-Electric Seaplane)
Scandinavian startup Elfly Group is developing the Noemi, an all-electric amphibious aircraft capable of carrying nine passengers. Nordic Seaplanes has committed to purchasing up to 15 units, signaling strong commercial demand for eco-friendly coastal air mobility.
Why These Next-Gen Amphibians Matter
-
Sustainability meets innovation – With electric and hydrogen propulsion (Jekta PHA-ZE 100) and SAF-compatible designs (Catalina II), these aircraft showcase greener aviation’s future.
-
Capacity and versatility – From the nimble Noemi to the massive AG600, these models span missions… firefighting, search and rescue, commercial island hopping, and wildfire response.
-
Modernized heritage – The Catalina II updates a beloved classic, while the Fregate-F100 and AG600 reflect renewed industrial commitment to amphibious design.
