NOEMI secures Philippine seaplane partnership for amphibious aircraft plan

NOEMI Aerospace has signed a memorandum of understanding with Philippine seaplane operator Horizon Sun Charters for the planned acquisition of three amphibious aircraft, with options for two more. The agreement gives the Norwegian developer a first foothold in the Philippines as it continues its push into Southeast Asia, while Horizon evaluates the aircraft for services linking island and coastal destinations.

The companies will assess technical, financial and regulatory requirements before any introduction into Philippine service, including route possibilities and operational integration. Horizon already operates private seaplane services in Palawan, serving destinations such as El Nido and Coron.

The aircraft under discussion is NOEMI’s nine-passenger amphibious design, built to operate from both water and conventional runways. The initial version is planned as fully electric, although the platform is also intended to support hybrid-electric or conventional propulsion. Entry into service is targeted for 2030, placing the deal in the early commercial planning phase rather than a near-term fleet delivery.