3D-printed seaplane model successfully tested in hydrodynamic tests

In October 2024, Virginia-based startup Tidal Flight successfully tested a 3D-printed model of its hybrid seaplane Polaris in the towing channel of the Davidson Laboratory. The 1:6 scale model was produced using Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) technology and represents an important milestone in the development of modern seaplanes. Polaris is to be designed as a hybrid-electric aircraft that can carry 9 to 12 passengers and can take off and land on both water and land.

“There is a recognized gap in regional air mobility, specifically around trips of 100 to 500 miles that are often served poorly by conventional airlines,” said Jude Augustine, Co-Founder and CEO of Tidal Flight. “At Tidal, we identified a unique opportunity to address this need with a modern, clean-sheet, hybrid-electric seaplane, providing direct and sustainable access to coastal communities and city centers.”

Testing at the Davidson Laboratory, a leading facility for hydrodynamic research, focused on examining the model’s drag, stability and splash behavior.

“The Davidson Laboratory High-Speed Towing Tank was built in 1944 with US Navy’s support to conduct tests of large systematic series of seaplane designs,” said Dr. Raju Datla, research associate professor at Stevens. “We are very pleased to see the resurgence of these vessels and excited to continue our legacy and work with Tidal Flight and the new generation of innovators.”

The model, which is approximately three meters in length, was designed, printed and tested by Tidal Flight’s three founders over the course of five months.

“This unique method of manufacturing enables rapid iteration of complex hull forms and aircraft shapes at reduced labor and cost,” said Pranav Krishnamurthy, Co-Founder and CTO at Tidal Flight. “The result was the ability to design, build, and fly our 1/6th model in less than five months with just our three co-founders.”

“Monohull seaplane design has not seen significant improvements since the 1950s,” said Mark Lau, Co-Founder and Chief Engineer at Tidal Flight. “We are seeking to modernize seaplane design using modern computational methods to reduce aerodynamic drag, enabling high fuel efficiency and range.”

With the findings, Tidal Flight plans to present an optimized version of the design in 2025 to improve the efficiency and range of the Polaris. This project marks a decisive step in the modernization of seaplane technology and the establishment of sustainable regional mobility solutions.

“This highly talented and motivated team demonstrates exceptional dynamics, technical expertise, and a well-defined plan to advance their groundbreaking technology,” said Jeanette Townsend, VIPC’s Director of Private Sector Grants. “Tidal Flight’s innovative hybrid-electric seaplane aligns perfectly with CCF’s funding priorities, serving as a strong proof-of-concept project that paves the way for further development, follow-on funding opportunities, and a higher likelihood of commercial success. We are proud to have Tidal Flight as an outstanding addition to the CCF portfolio.”