Norwegian NOEMI Aerospace has signed a memorandum of understanding with SkyHop Aviation for up to 15 amphibious aircraft for the Indian market. The agreement strengthens NOEMI's position in a country that is investing heavily in seaplanes and means that the company's global commercial pipeline now includes more than 90 aircraft.
SkyHop Aviation is described as India's first dedicated commercial seaplane operator and plans to build a network with an initial focus on the Lakshadweep Islands and connections between the archipelago and the Indian mainland.
Under the agreement, SkyHop plans to introduce up to ten NOEMI aircraft by fiscal year 2030, through purchase, leasing or a combination of both, with an option for an additional five aircraft.
The plans are conditional on, among other things, technical and commercial evaluations, regulatory approvals and final agreements.
“We see India making a real commitment to turning its seaplane strategy into reality. This is the beginning of a strong new market,” says Eric Lithun, founder and CEO of NOEMI Aerospace.
India plans around 150 seaplane routes
India is developing into a potentially very large market for amphibious aircraft. According to NOEMI, the Indian government's regional traffic program UDAN includes plans for around 150 new seaplane routes.
Seaplanes can be particularly interesting in a country with a long coastline, many islands, rivers and lakes where traditional airport infrastructure can be expensive or difficult to build.
SkyHop aims to have a fleet of up to 40 aircraft by fiscal year 2030.
“With our vast coastline, islands, rivers and lakes, seaplanes can fundamentally change how we connect regions where conventional airport infrastructure is difficult or impractical to build,” said Avani Singh, founder and CEO of SkyHop Aviation.
Can also be manufactured in India
The collaboration encompasses more than a potential aircraft deal. NOEMI and SkyHop will jointly evaluate the technical, operational, commercial and regulatory conditions for introducing the aircraft in India.
The parties will also explore the possibilities for a broader strategic collaboration, which could include future manufacturing and assembly of electric and hybrid electric NOEMI aircraft in India.
However, no decision has been made regarding such production and would require further evaluations and separate agreements.
Electric-powered amphibious flight for nine passengers
NOEMI is developing its first aircraft as a fully electric amphibious aircraft that will be able to take off and land both on water and conventional runways.
The aircraft is designed for nine passengers and one or two pilots. The platform will also be adaptable for hybrid electric or conventional propulsion.
In addition to regular passenger traffic, the platform is being developed for, among other things, freight, ambulance flights, search and rescue missions, government operations and aerial firefighting.
Planned traffic start is 2030.
Commercial pipeline of over 90 aircraft
The SkyHop agreement represents further commercial progress for the Norwegian aircraft project. NOEMI states that the company's public pipeline now includes more than 90 aircraft through agreements with players in Europe, North America and Asia.
Asia is being identified as an increasingly important market, especially India and Southeast Asia, where geography and the need for regional transport connections could create a market for amphibious aircraft.
– Being involved at this stage gives NOEMI a strong position in what could become the world's largest market for seaplanes, says Eirik Sandal, co-founder and chief investment officer at NOEMI Aerospace.
