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Singapore to launch new model of passenger transport to Indonesia

Measuring 17 metres in length and 15 metres in width, the wing-in-ground or waterborne craft operates on the principle of ground effect, allowing it to skim above the water’s surface.

Singapore (VNA) – Singapore may launch AirFish, a hovercraft-like vessel that skims over water, in the second half of this year.

The information was unveiled by Singapore’s technology and engineering group ST Engineering at the opening ceremony of the Singapore Airshow on February 3.

The group said that its joint venture with Singapore-based start-up Peluca, known as ST Engineering AirX, will partner with ferry operator BatamFast to operate passenger services using the AirFish Voyager from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore to Batam city of Indonesia.

BatamFast currently operates 18 ferry trips daily from Tanah Merah and HarbourFront ferry terminals in Singapore to Batam. It will lease and operate the AirFish Voyager on this route, with operating times subject to approval from regulatory authorities.

The AirFish Voyager, which is designed to carry eight passengers and two crew members, is currently being assembled in Singapore.

Measuring 17 metres in length and 15 metres in width, the wing-in-ground or waterborne craft operates on the principle of ground effect, allowing it to skim above the water’s surface. The AirFish Voyager can travel at speeds of up to 100 knots, or about 185 km/h, which is significantly faster than typical seagoing fast ferries that usually operate at around 30 knots. It can cover distances of up to 300 nautical miles.

Since 2024, ST Engineering AirX has been working with Bureau Veritas, a testing, inspection and certification provider, on the classification and certification of the AirFish craft. It is expected to be certified by mid-2026./.

VNA
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