Ground effect technology is also used in the
current generation of Formula 1 racing cars.
As a WIG craft operates just above the water’s
surface it is classified as a maritime
vessel and is governed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the
same collision rules that apply to ships.
Working with the MPA AirX will identify an area off
Changi on Singapore's east coast for trials with measures in place to ensure there is no
disruption to port operations.
“The collaboration is a step towards
realising the potential of such technology in areas such as maritime
transportation and logistics services,” the MPA said in a statement. WIG is not at all a new technology; it has
not been successfully commercialized.
This year visitors to Singapore Maritime Week will
see the 10-seater Airfish 8 w on display at the Vessel Showcase, from 13-14
April 2024 at the Marina South Pier.
The trials of the Airfish 8 will go towards
establishing an Engineering and Certification Centre of Excellence for WIG in
Singapore which is expected to start up in the third quarter.