New Delhi: State-owned helicopter operator Pawan Hans Limited (PHL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Norway-based Noemi Aerospace to explore next-generation electric seaplane technology and sustainable flight solutions. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha witnessed the signing ceremony. Pawan Hans Chairman Sunil Kumar Nagdawne and Noemi Aerospace CEO Eric François Lithun formally executed the pact for collaboration on Electric seaplane technology.
[Pawan Hans (India)] ──( Technical Collaboration MoU )──> [ Noemi Aerospace (Norway) ]
│
[Regional & Island Reach] ◀──( Zero-Emission Electric Seaplanes )───┘
Technical Cooperation and Skill Building Framework
Under the non-binding agreement, both entities will conduct feasibility studies, joint technical workshops, capacity building, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Crucially, the electric seaplane technology partnership supports India’s broader push toward zero-emission regional connectivity. Minister Naidu emphasized that the initiative aligns with the government’s vision to manufacture amphibious aircraft domestically rather than relying solely on imports.
Key Policy and Financial Incentives for Seaplane Adoption:
Indigenous Manufacturing Push: Promotes localized assembly under Make in India guidelines.
Operational Subsidies: Introduces Viability Gap Funding (VGF) support via Union Budget 2026.
Regulatory Framework: Streamlines operations using dedicated Seaplane Operations Guidelines.
Zero Financial Exposure: Non-binding exploratory agreement involves no initial capital commitment.
Aligning with Regional and Island Connectivity Goals
Headquartered in Bergen, Norway, Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS) is actively developing commercial electric seaplane prototypes with direct backing from the Norwegian government.
[Simplified Regulations] ──▶ Viability Gap Funding (VGF) ──▶ Electric Seaplane Fleet Rollout
The Civil Aviation Ministry clarified that this agreement remains purely exploratory. Therefore, future commercial ventures will require separate definitive agreements and regulatory clearances.
Ultimately, combining international electric propulsion expertise with domestic manufacturing infrastructure will accelerate green flight adoption across India’s coastlines and island territories.
Pawan Hans & Noemi Aerospace MoU Summary
| Partnership Parameter | Strategic MoU Provision | Primary Regulatory Objective | National Aviation Impact |
| Technology Focus | Electric Seaplane Systems | Zero-emission regional mobility. | Reduces carbon footprint in coastal transport. |
| Domestic Policy Alignment | Make in India Integration | Local assembly and indigenous IP. | Shifts focus from aircraft import to local build. |
| Budgetary Support | Viability Gap Funding (VGF) | Lowers entry barriers for operators. | Enhances economic viability of regional routes. |
| Norwegian Partner | Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS) | Tech transfer and joint feasibility studies. | Connects Indian aviation with Nordic tech. |
About the Author
