SkyHop aims to enhance regional connectivity, linking mainland India with islands and remote areas, while supporting tourism.
Industrialist Avani Singh-led SkyHop Aviation has taken a significant step towards launching seaplane services in India, signing its first aircraft lease agreement with Japanese lessor AERL, industry sources told businessline.
Accordingly, the development allows the upcoming operator to move ahead with its application for an Air Operator Permit (AOP) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), a critical milestone before commercial operations can begin.
Sources cited that SkyHop has secured a Twin Otter DHC-6-400 series aircraft with floats and has, at its own cost, completed construction of dedicated jetty infrastructure at five islands in Lakshadweep, placing it ahead on the operational side even as regulatory approvals are awaited.
Lakshadweep Connectivity
“The initial focus will be on connecting the mainland with various islands in Lakshadweep, even as the airline remains in talks to induct additional aircraft,” the source told businessline.
SkyHop Aviation is headed by Avani Singh, daughter of SpiceJet promoter Ajay Singh, who previously led SpiceHealth and is spearheading the seaplane project as an independent venture, not linked to SpiceJet.
Tourism and Regional Travel
Speaking about the project, Avani Singh told businessline that seaplane operations could unlock a new chapter in regional connectivity and tourism.
“Seaplanes offer a unique opportunity to connect parts of the country that traditional aviation struggles to reach – whether islands, coastal belts or remote regions,” Avani said.
“What makes this journey special is building something from the ground up – putting together aircraft, infrastructure and operations while learning at every step. If done right, seaplanes can play a meaningful role in boosting tourism and improving connectivity.”
The airline has partnered with De Havilland Canada to procure seaplanes.
Floats Tested
As per industry sources, the floats required for water landings have already been tested. SkyHop is now preparing to approach the DGCA for its Air Operator Permit.
The venture had received its No Objection Certificate (NOC) along with mandatory security clearance in June last year.
Bridging Unconnected India
On its LinkedIn page, SkyHop Aviation has noted that only around 170 of India’s nearly 4,000 cities currently have air connectivity.
“SkyHop Aviation’s seaplanes and small aircraft are quickly changing that. We’re transforming regional travel — navigating water, rough terrain, and remote destinations to connect an unconnected India,” the company said.
Pilot Recruitment
According to sources, SkyHop has advertised for pilots for the Twin Otter DHC-6-400 aircraft and holds multiple key regional routes across Andhra Pradesh, Lakshadweep, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the North-East and other strategic locations.
India currently has no operational seaplane services. The segment briefly gained attention in 2019–20 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew on a seaplane between the Sabarmati riverfront and the Statue of Unity in Gujarat. The service, operated by SpiceJet, was later discontinued due to Covid-19.
Globally, seaplanes are widely used to connect islands and tourism-heavy regions, with the Maldives alone operating an estimated 100 such aircraft.
Centre Support UDAN
The Centre has renewed efforts to encourage the segment. Under UDAN 5.5, operators can develop seaplane routes across 80 identified water bodies, while several State governments have expressed interest in improving connectivity through water aerodromes.
Industry estimates suggest the development of 20–25 water aerodromes and more than 50 seaplane routes over the next five years, with a projected requirement of around 50-100 aircraft.
Published on February 4, 2026