SkyHop Aviation Launches India’s First Seaplane Service
India’s aviation industry is about to take a significant leap forward. SkyHop Aviation has received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), paving the way for commercial seaplane services. This marks the beginning of what is expected to be the country’s first dedicated seaplane operation, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and reducing travel time to remote areas.
The certification follows successful test flights, including water take-offs and landings at locations like Ganga Barrage and Tehri Lake in Uttarakhand. This readiness sets the stage for a commercial launch in the near future.
SkyHop Aviation aims to reach areas lacking traditional airport facilities. The airline’s focus will be on connecting hard-to-access destinations, especially islands and regions by the water, offering travelers a quicker alternative to lengthy surface journeys.
Avani Singh, Founder and CEO of SkyHop, expressed her excitement, stating that the AOC represents a significant accomplishment after extensive preparations. She thanked key officials, including Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, for their support during the approval process.
“Our goal is straightforward: to offer a safe, dependable, and innovative way to connect parts of India that are still challenging to reach. We want to provide a travel experience that is both efficient and enjoyable, while making a meaningful contribution to regional access and national unity,” she said.
SkyHop plans to start its operations with a 19-seater aircraft, initially focusing on Lakshadweep. In the first phase, the airline will connect five islands in the archipelago and link them to the mainland, significantly improving travel in the region.
The company is also exploring similar opportunities across India, where seaplanes could fill travel gaps and boost tourism and local economies.
With regulatory approval now secured, the focus will shift to setting operational timelines and expanding routes as India explores the potential of seaplanes in its regional aviation landscape.
