DGCA Approves License for India’s First Seaplane Airline, Launching Services in Lakshadweep
India is set to reintroduce seaplane services as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has awarded an air operator certificate to SkyHop Aviation. This marks a significant step for the company, which aims to become the country’s first dedicated commercial seaplane operator. Initially, SkyHop plans to connect five islands in Lakshadweep and the mainland using a 19-seater aircraft. The founder and CEO, Avani Singh, expressed optimism about the venture, emphasizing the goal of providing safe and reliable travel options to remote areas.
Launch of Seaplane Services
SkyHop Aviation is gearing up to launch its seaplane services, focusing on enhancing connectivity in India. The company has received the necessary air operator certificate from the DGCA, allowing it to operate commercial flights. The first phase of operations will connect five islands in Lakshadweep, facilitating travel between these islands and the mainland. The airline plans to use a 19-seater De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, which has been modified to function as a seaplane. This initiative aims to provide a new mode of transportation for travelers seeking access to remote locations.
Aircraft Modification and Testing
The aircraft that SkyHop will use has undergone significant modifications. Originally part of the now-defunct Fly Big airline, the DHC-6 Twin Otter was converted into a seaplane by affixing floats to its structure. Earlier this month, the modified aircraft successfully completed test flights in Uttarakhand, taking off and landing at the Ganga Barrage in Haridwar. The DGCA has certified the aircraft’s airworthiness and approved its operating procedures, marking a milestone in India’s aviation history. This is the first instance of an aircraft being converted into a seaplane in India, as previous seaplanes were imported and faced challenges in sustaining operations.
Government Support and Future Plans
The Indian government is showing renewed interest in promoting seaplane services, as highlighted in the recent budget announcement by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The government plans to introduce incentives for the indigenous manufacturing of seaplanes and establish a viability gap funding scheme to support operational costs. Additionally, the revised UDAN scheme aims to expand seaplane services across the country. This renewed focus comes after a previous attempt by SpiceJet to launch seaplane services in Gujarat, which was not sustained. Officials are hopeful that the current government backing will lead to a more successful implementation of seaplane operations.
Vision for Regional Connectivity
Avani Singh, the founder and CEO of SkyHop Aviation, expressed her vision for the new service. She stated that receiving the air operator certificate is a crucial milestone for the company, providing a solid foundation to move forward. Singh emphasized the importance of offering a safe and reliable travel option to connect parts of India that are often difficult to access. The company aims to create a travel experience that is both practical and memorable for passengers, while also contributing to regional access and national integration. As SkyHop prepares to launch its services, it hopes to play a significant role in enhancing connectivity and promoting tourism in India.
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