Major Hawaii airlines join forces in a unique initiative that may replace interisland flying by the end of the decade, if things go as planned.
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18 thoughts on “Southwest Airlines Joins Forces with Hawaiian Airlines On Interisland Flight Alternative”
I just visited the Seaglider website… this idea appears to be conceptual, all of the images of the Seaglider they are proposing for interisland travel are renderings. From what I saw, there is nothing to back up their claims as far as range, performance, etc., they don’t even have a motor manufacturer identifed.
Also, I mentioned in another post that they appear to be relying on ground effect for efficiency, ground effect is consistent over a hard surface, like a runway, over water it is not nearly as consistent and sea conditions would affect any efficiency they are trying to take advantage of.
What surprises me is that there are partner airlines… I am however not surprised that the inept Gov is backing this.
Think the same things were said to the Wright Bros. over a century ago.
Not quite the same thing… this is basic aerodynamics, I think other pilots on here will make similar observations regarding ground effect over rough seas and the logistics of having low flying aircraft flying 180mph sharing the same airspace as catamarans/sailboats/wildlife.
The other issue is the technology most likely isn’t there yet, weight is the enemy of aircraft and electric batteries are heavy, also what would the charge time be between flights.
What scares me too is that they may not need to get faa approval, this will likely fall under maritime due to the type of vessel they are. Imagine flying 180 mph 30’ above the water, a wind gust hits you and a wing tip touches the water, bad news.
Very good and much needed service between islands. Cost effective for travelers will help increase travel and enhance options for travelers.