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Japan Airlines visits Ocean Flyer in Auckland, New Zealand for the Global Seaglider Initiative 🇯🇵 🤝 🇳🇿
Ocean Flyer meet with Japan Airlines Ventures and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL)
Japan Airlines Ventures (led by Yusuke Yabumoto, General Manager of Japan Airlines Ventures) and Mitsui O.S.K Lines, both strategic investors and partners with our manufacturer REGENT, recently visited us in Auckland, New Zealand, to get insights from a seaglider operator's perspective.
From left to right: Shinichi Hiroi (Mitsui O.S.K Lines GM Innovation & Corporate Venturing), John Hamilton (Ocean Flyer Operations Director), Kenny Crawford (Maritime New Zealand Deputy CEO), Shah Aslam (Ocean Flyer CEO), Yusuke Yabumoto (Japan Airlines Ventures General Manager)
Ocean Flyer CEO, Shah Aslam, welcomed the delegation, which included nine members (seven of whom flew in directly from Japan!). The delegation spent less than 36 hours in Auckland, immersing themselves in discussions about commuter and public transport systems. This visit marks an important milestone as Ocean Flyer continues to drive New Zealand’s position on the global public transport map.
Ocean Flyer CEO Shah Aslam shares Ocean Flyer's vision with Japan Airlines Ventures and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL)
During their time in Auckland, Kenny Crawford, Deputy CEO of Maritime New Zealand, provided valuable updates on the ongoing seaglider certification process.
Maritime New Zealand Deputy CEO, Kenny Crawford leads the discussion about the certification pathway for seagliders
Jon Moore, CEO of Northport, also shared insights on infrastructure developments and how seagliders will help unlock greater productivity for Northland.
Northport CEO, Jon Moore, presents to the room
The collaboration underway across New Zealand’s communities is truly inspiring. Ocean Flyer is working closely with early adopter cities and international partners to bring this vision to life.
Japan is known for having one of the best public transport systems in the world, and the opportunity to exchange ideas with such major, billion-dollar companies further affirms our decision to have placed a paid order for 25 seagliders to be introduced in New Zealand.
Ocean Flyer CEO, Shah Aslam, with Japan Airlines Ventures General Manager, Yusuke Yabumoto
While the All Blacks store was unfortunately closed, it was a pleasure to see the Japan Airlines Ventures and Mitsui O.S.K Lines teams looking sharp in their Ocean Flyer black polos.
The delegation looking forward to a brighter, more sustainable future of coastal travel
Here’s to a more sustainable transport future—one where global initiatives bring seagliders to coastal communities around the world. It’s an exciting, forward-thinking project, and we’re proud to be part of it.
Black is black, baby!
ABOUT OCEAN FLYER
Ocean Flyer signed a historic $700m agreement in April 2022 with REGENT to bring 25 seagliders to New Zealand. Ocean Flyer is the first seaglider-only company setup in the world to bring sustainable, fully electric, fast, affordable and comfortable new mode for mass public transport.
Ocean Flyer is committed to connecting communities across the motu, tackling climate change, and building a more resilient and affordable transport network for everyone.
For more information, visit oceanflyer.co.nz and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.
ABOUT JAPAN AIRLINES VENTURES
Japan Airlines Ventures (JAL Ventures) is the corporate venture arm of Japan Airlines (JAL), dedicated to fostering innovation and driving the future of travel. With a focus on emerging technologies, sustainability, and customer experience, JAL Ventures seeks to identify and invest in groundbreaking startups and businesses that align with the evolving needs of the transport industry.
By partnering with forward-thinking companies across diverse sectors—such as aviation, travel tech, sustainability, and digital transformation—JAL Ventures aims to shape the future of travel while enhancing JAL’s services and operations.
Through strategic investments and collaborations, JAL Ventures supports the development of cutting-edge solutions that elevate the travel experience, and promote environmental responsibility. For more information, visit japanairlinesventures.com.
ABOUT MITSUI O.S.K. Lines
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is a global leader in maritime transportation, specializing in a wide range of services including container shipping, bulk shipping, and logistics. With a rich history spanning over 130 years, MOL is committed to delivering reliable, innovative, and sustainable solutions to meet the needs of the international shipping industry. Through its extensive fleet and cutting-edge technology, MOL ensures the safe and efficient movement of goods across the globe, while continuously striving to enhance environmental performance and contribute to a more sustainable future. For more information, visit mol.co.jp/en/.