Pawan Hans Limited has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Norway-based Noemi Aerospace, also known as Elfly AS, to explore electric seaplane operations in India. The agreement, signed in New Delhi in the presence of Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha, is focused on feasibility work rather than aircraft procurement or a launch commitment.
The collaboration covers operational concepts, infrastructure requirements, technical cooperation, knowledge sharing, training, workshops and capacity building. It also aligns with India’s interest in regional and island connectivity, green aviation and local manufacturing, with the partners expected to examine whether electric amphibious aircraft could support future services in the country.
Noemi’s aircraft concept is a fully electric amphibious seaplane designed to operate from water and conventional runways. The company is targeting a first flight in 2027 and commercial service in 2030, although those milestones are independent of the Pawan Hans arrangement. The deal does not include financial terms, exclusivity or a procurement obligation, and no route launch date has been disclosed.