Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How high can a Flying Yacht fly?
A: The normal cruising altitude is 30 – 90 meters, or 100 – 300 feet. Legally, ground-effect crafts can fly up to 150 meter, or 492 feet above the surface.
Q: Is the Flying Yacht registered or licensed as an aircraft?
A: It is licensed as a boat and operates under IMO (International Maritime Organization) regulations.
Q: Do you need a pilot's license to operate a Flying Yacht?
A: No, but proper training is necessary to ensure safe operation. The Flying-Yachts Inc. will provide extensive training to its customers.
Q: How fast can a Flying Yacht fly?
A: Maximum speed is around 60 knots (110 km/h / 70 mph).
Q: What is the cruising range of the Flying Yacht?
A: Its efficiency and fuel capacity easily make it capable of transoceanic voyages.
Q: How much does a Flying Yacht cost?
A: The starting price is surprisingly low (from the low 7-figures US$). However, final price depends on the size, customization, etc.
Q: Is a Flying Yacht expensive to operate?
A: Operating costs are generally only a fraction of that of a similarly sized, ocean-capable yacht.
Q: Is the Flying Yacht safe?
A: The Flying Yachts actually lower some of the risks normally associated with boating. Running aground or hitting floating or submerged debris are risks that are eliminated when cruising at 30 – 90 meters (100 - 300 feet) above the surface.
With at least four independent propulsion systems, a total propulsion failure is unlikely.
Even if all engines stopped at full speed and maximum altitude, the Flying Yacht would simply settle gently on the surface.
With several "layers" or compartments of built-in buoyancy it is practically unsinkable.
Q: Can the Flying Yacht be used as a regular boat?
A: Yes, it can cruise on the water like a regular boat. The Flying Yacht is in "boat mode" before every lift-off and after each landing. The draft in boat mode is only about 15 – 20 cm or 6 - 8 inches.
Q: Can you get motion sickness onboard the Flying Yacht?
A: You don't need to earn your "sea legs" when you are traveling above the waves and swells of the sea. The Flying Yachts are very stable, comfortable, and unlikely to cause motion sickness.
Q: What about the environmental impact?
A: The Flying Yacht is very environmentally friendly when compared with a standard boat/yacht of similar capacity. Due to the absence of water drag, fuel consumption is only a fraction of that of a boat of the same size. With its air-propeller propulsion, the Flying Yachts cause no damage to underwater life. The closed-circuit water-cooling eliminates water contamination.