SkyHop Aviation Pvt. Ltd., India's pioneering dedicated seaplane operator, is actively exploring the integration of electric and hybrid seaplanes into its fleet for enhanced regional air connectivity across India and the broader South Asian region.
The Gurugram-based company has formalized its intentions by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Noemi Aerospace, a Norwegian aircraft manufacturer specializing in the development of next-generation amphibious aircraft. This partnership aims to evaluate the operational suitability and eventual deployment of electric seaplanes.
As part of its ambitious long-term fleet development strategy, SkyHop Aviation is targeting a total fleet of up to 40 aircraft by the fiscal year 2030. Subject to regulatory approvals and commercial evaluations, the company anticipates that electric and/or hybrid seaplanes will constitute a significant portion, approximately 20-25%, of this future fleet. This translates to an induction plan for up to 10 Noemi aircraft through various arrangements, including purchase or lease, by FY2030.
Beyond this initial phase, SkyHop Aviation may also consider an option for up to five additional Noemi aircraft, contingent on the successful performance and integration of the initial fleet. The collaboration extends further to explore potential opportunities for local manufacturing and assembly of these advanced electric and hybrid seaplanes within India.
Avani Singh, Founder & CEO of SkyHop Aviation, emphasized the company's dual focus:
“Our immediate priority is to build a safe, reliable and scalable seaplane network across India. But as we build that network, we also have an opportunity to think ahead about what the next generation of the fleet should look like. Electric and hybrid aircraft could become an important part of that transition, particularly for short regional routes, and our partnership with Noemi allows us to begin evaluating that opportunity today.”
SkyHop's initial operational phase will concentrate on establishing vital connections between the islands of Lakshadweep and the Indian mainland, utilizing a 19-seater Twin Otter seaplane. The company is also actively assessing other regions nationwide where seaplane connectivity can effectively bridge gaps in conventional air infrastructure and substantially reduce travel times, offering a sustainable alternative.