Air Scooter Challenge: Franky Zapata Crosses the English Channel in Bold Attempt
CEO’s Bold Stunt: Crossing the Channel Bare‑Back
In an unprecedented move that has captured the imagination of adventure enthusiasts worldwide, the head of the multinational tech conglomerate has announced plans to row the English Channel in a single, seamless sailing using a specially designed, lightweight boat. What sets this challenge apart is that the vessel will be equipped with no parachute—an element typically reserved for emergency escapes—underscoring the CEO’s commitment to minimalism and risk integrity.
Key Details of the Expedition
- Ship Design: Sleek, wind‑driven craft engineered for speed and stability
- Duration: Expected 12–15 hours across turbulent waters
- Safety Protocols: Advanced GPS, satellite communication, and onboard medical kit
- Personnel: Experienced crew of five, including a seasoned maritime pilot
Why No Parachute?
The decision to forgo a parachute stems from multiple factors: environmental sustainability by reducing plastic use, a tactical simplification that emphasizes skill over backup gear, and a symbolic gesture of trust in pure human capability. The CEO has highlighted that the absence of parachutes will remind everyone that over‑dependency on safety devices can become a distraction from the core objective.
Public Reaction and Media Buzz
Initial coverage has ranged from enthusiastic support—celebrating the audacity—and cautious concern over potential safety risks. Key media outlets have emphasized the Olympic‑style “human endurance” narrative that this venture promotes.
As the countdown to departure begins, supporters and skeptics alike await to see whether this venture will become a new benchmark in personal achievement or a cautionary tale for future runners.
French Startup Announces the “Air Scooter” — A Self‑Piloted, Scooter‑Like Aircraft
Picture this: you hop onto a scooter, but instead of rolling down a street, you glide up into the sky and cruise toward your friend’s barbecue. That’s the vision behind the Air Scooter, an ultralight aircraft engineered by the French aviation start‑up Zapata.
Revolutionary Design and Ease of Use
- Pre‑Programmed Flight Path – The machine sees a flight plan as its “route,” so pilots merely input a destination.
- Minimal Manual Control – Traditional helicopters require constant adjustments; the Air Scooter’s computer manages everything, letting the pilot feel like the operator rather than the mechanic.
- Hybrid Vertical Take‑off – Combining lift and propulsion, the aircraft can power‑up from a standstill and soar into the air effortlessly.
“It’s a kind of flying robot,” explains CEO Franky Zapata. “Once inside, you just instruct the machine to move, and the computer executes the motion. It’s incredibly intuitive.”
Democratizing Air Travel
Zapata emphasizes that the Air Scooter could make flying far more accessible:
- Contrary to conventional planes and helicopters, learning to pilot this device is simpler and more affordable.
- It eliminates the high costs associated with traditional certification and expensive aircraft.
- By reducing barriers to entry, the company aims to open up the skies to ordinary travelers.
“You need skills and money to fly an airplane or helicopter, and the machines are pricey,” says Zapata. “Our goal is to make flying as common as riding a scooter.”
Fly over the English Channel
French Inventor Zeptsla Set to Test Air Scooter Across the Channel
Destination Mission: The French pilot and inventor, known for his innovative Air Scooter, is scheduled to launch from Calais, France and reach the St Margaret’s Bay near Dover in the UK. The endeavour aims to verify the Air Scooter’s practicality.
Key Details of the Flight
- Time of Departure: Friday
- Route: Direct from Calais to St Margaret’s Bay
- Safety Note: No parachute will be aboard in the event of an emergency
Past Success and Experience
In 2019, Zeptsla previously crossed the Channel using his earlier prototype, the Flyboard Air. After an initial failure at the halfway point, his subsequent attempt succeeded:
- Distance Covered: 36 kilometres
- Duration: 22 minutes
- Peak Speed: 202 km/h
Comparing the Air Scooter to the Flyboard Air
Zeptsla highlighted the Air Scooter’s user‑friendly design:
- It allows vertical take‑off without complex controls.
- Unlike the Flyboard Air, which requires advanced skill, the Air Scooter is more accessible to a broader range of pilots.
- It reduces the danger and technical barriers inherent to the earlier model.
Additional Viewing
To experience the flight in full, viewers can watch the video in the media player above.
