Big Electric Seaplane Plan for India

Seaplane operator SkyHop Aviation has signed a memorandum of understanding with Norway-based Nomi Aerospace to explore the introduction of electric seaplane services in India and across South Asia. As part of the plan, SkyHop intends to acquire or lease 10 electric seaplanes from Nomi Aerospace by 2029-30, with the option to add five more depending on their performance.

SkyHop aims to build a fleet of 40 aircraft by 2030, with electric and hybrid seaplanes expected to account for 20-25% of the fleet. The companies are also exploring the possibility of manufacturing or assembling electric and hybrid seaplanes in India in the future. In the first phase, SkyHop plans to connect the Lakshadweep islands with each other and the mainland using 19-seat Twin Otter seaplanes. SkyHop founder and CEO Avani Singh said seaplanes can provide an effective transport solution for water-based regions where airports cannot be built.