Science fiction writers have written about them for years, children have dreamed about their powers of flight, and comic books have shown their potential, but now jetpacks are finally a reality. But with a price tag of nearly $100,000, it looks like only the 1% will be lifting off with these futuristic flying machines anytime soon.
Florida-based Jetlev has announced a price and expected release date for their gravity defying, water-powered device, stating that it will be available for purchase in the spring of 2012 for a suggested retail price of $99,500, according to Mashable. The company's website also confirmed the pricing.
For those scared off by the high purchase price, the Jetlev R200 -- the company's first model -- will be available to rent at certain locations in Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii and Florida, according to the Daily Mail. Though, at upwards of $240 a day, it's still likely to be out of reach for many.
Using a massive hose, the R200 sucks up massive amounts of water and pumps it out dual streams strapped to the back of the user resulting in the incredible propulsion. According to the Daily Mail, experienced users can do a number of tricks, like figure-eights and making appear like they're walking on water. The craft can achieve a maximum height of about 30 feet and weighs about 30 pounds.
But this isn't the only jetpack out there. Another company, Martin Aviation, has created a jetpack capable of reaching an elevation of 5,000 feet. Unfortunately, their jetpack isn't quite ready for the commercial market.
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