Breitling flying with Franky Zapata

Unveiled in April 2016 this machine is capable of flying independently. Following four years of development, this "autonomous propulsion unit" currently at the prototype stage takes the form of a board weighing around 20 kg fitted with six jet engines (four under the board and two on the sides). Like a Segway, this device is guided by transfer of its pilot’s weight; he uses a joystick to adjust the thrust.

Originating from Marseille, Franky Zapata invented the ESH Flyboard, a hydro-propelled board linked to a jet-ski in 2011. Permitting flight over water, this object then became a new competition discipline with global events. With the Flyboard Air the athlete is looking to achieve a top speed of 160 km/h in due course and a maximum altitude of 3,000 metres.

January 12, 2017