This summer, Canadian-based Jetlev Development Company will release their first series of personal flying devices: Jetlev-Flyers. The independently operated flying machines are priced at €129,000.

Jetlev-Flyers are water-powered jet packs created to give adventurers the sensation of flying. They operate using 4-stroke engines in combination with water nozzle reaction force to achieve stable and controlled flights. For precision, a digital fly-by-wire system is used to control the throttle. Jetlev provides each customer with training videos and ensures that all can safely operate the jet packs.

Jetlev-Flyers can accommodate pilots ranging from 1.5 – 2 meters in height and 40 – 120 kg in weight. They can reach heights of up to 10 meters and achieve a top speed of 35 km/h. Cruisers have a duration of approximately one or two hours.

Taking nine years to come to fruition, the concept for Jetlev, which is an abbreviation of “Jet Levitation,” began in 2000 with an idea from Chinese-Canadian inventor, Raymond Li. In 2003, Li opened Jetlev Development Company and in 2004 he and his team began assembling test models. In 2007, Jetlev Sports Company in Florida was issued a license to develop production models. Two years later, they teamed with German-based company, MS Watersports GmbH, and began production. In January of 2009, Jetlev-Flyers made their public debut at Boot Dusseldorf in Germany and have since garnered much attention due to viral video leaks and assorted media coverage.

A limited rollout of 500 Jetlev-Flyers will hit select markets in the United States, Canada, Europe, Middle East and Australia by the end of June 2010. The first retailer selected to carry the jet packs is Pearl Watercrafts LLC located at the Dubai Marina Yacht Club, in Dubai. The yacht club will also be home to a Jetlev training center.

[Jetlev]

Tags: Jetlev