Government-owned helicopter operator Pawan Hans Limited (PHL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Norway-based Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS) to explore collaboration in next-generation sustainable aviation technologies, including electric seaplane solutions, as India seeks to expand regional connectivity through green aviation.
The non-binding agreement was signed in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha.
The MoU was signed by Pawan Hans Chairman and Managing Director Sunil Kumar Nagdawne and Noemi Aerospace Chief Executive Officer Eric François Lithun.
Under the agreement, the two organisations will explore cooperation in electric seaplane technologies, skill development, capacity building, technical knowledge sharing, workshops and feasibility studies. The collaboration is intended to support the development of sustainable aviation solutions while strengthening India’s capabilities in emerging aviation technologies.
Speaking on the occasion, Naidu said the partnership reflects the government’s broader vision of strengthening indigenous capabilities and promoting innovation in the civil aviation sector.
“Our vision is not limited to operating seaplanes in India; we also want to build them in India, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Make in India vision,” the minister said.
He noted that the Union Budget 2026 has laid special emphasis on promoting seaplanes by proposing incentives for indigenous manufacturing and introducing a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme to support seaplane operations.
“If we combine global technology partnerships with Indian manufacturing capability, we can cater to the local and regional demand for seaplanes,” he said.
Highlighting recent policy measures, the minister said the government has introduced dedicated Seaplane Operations Guidelines, simplified the regulatory framework and conducted demonstration flights across the country over the past two years to encourage stakeholder participation and accelerate the adoption of seaplane services.
The proposed collaboration aligns with the Government of India’s objectives of promoting regional and island connectivity, advancing green aviation and encouraging innovation-led growth in the aviation sector.
Headquartered in Bergen, Norway, Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS) is developing next-generation electric seaplane technology and is supported by the Government of Norway for its development programme.
The Civil Aviation Ministry clarified that the memorandum is exploratory in nature and does not involve any financial commitment, procurement obligation, investment commitment or exclusive arrangement. Any future collaboration will be subject to separate definitive agreements and approvals from the competent authorities in accordance with applicable laws and Government of India procedures.
The Ministry said the initiative reflects its continued focus on innovation, operational excellence and strategic international partnerships to support the growth of India’s evolving aviation ecosystem.
