Tidal Flight
Hampton, VA
Short Description
An early-stage aerospace startup developing "Polaris," a sustainable hybrid-electric amphibious seaplane designed for regional coastal transit.
Overview
Tidal Flight is reshaping regional air mobility by introducing a hybrid-electric amphibious aircraft. Designed to carry 9 to 12 passengers on routes spanning 100 to 500 miles, their flagship plane, Polaris, blends composite materials and an advanced hybrid jet-fuel propulsion system to slash fuel consumption by up to 85% and lower operating costs by 40% compared to traditional seaplanes.
Accelerated through Hampton's REaKTOR Technology Innovation Center, the company has secured a $1.25 million U.S. Air Force AFWERX contract for prototype development alongside over $900 million in commercial pre-order intent globally. Backed by a dedicated R&D flight-testing hangar at the Chesapeake Regional Airport, the startup bridges dual-use logistics and commercial coastal travel while entirely bypassing congested runway infrastructure.