New Delhi: State-owned helicopter operator Pawan Hans Limited (PHL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS), Norway, to explore collaboration in next-generation sustainable aviation technologies, including electric seaplane solutions.
The partnership supports India’s efforts to strengthen green aviation, promote regional and island connectivity, and build indigenous capabilities in emerging aviation technologies.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha.
MoU to Focus on Electric Seaplane Technology
The agreement was signed by Sunil Kumar Nagdawne, Chairman and Managing Director of Pawan Hans, and Eric François Lithun, Chief Executive Officer of Noemi Aerospace.
Under the exploratory partnership, the two organisations will work together in areas including:
- Electric seaplane technology
- Skill development and workforce training
- Capacity building
- Technical knowledge sharing
- Workshops and industry engagement
- Feasibility studies for future projects
The collaboration aims to support the development of sustainable aviation solutions while enhancing India’s capabilities in advanced aviation technologies.
Read also: Pawan Hans Names Sunil Kumar Nagdawne as CMD to Drive Next Phase of Aviation Growth
Government Pushes Green Aviation and Regional Connectivity
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said the partnership aligns with the Government of India’s vision of promoting innovation and strengthening domestic capabilities in the aviation sector.
He highlighted that the government has:
- Introduced dedicated seaplane operation guidelines
- Simplified the regulatory framework
- Conducted demonstration seaplane flights across India over the past two years
These initiatives are intended to encourage industry participation and accelerate the adoption of seaplane services across the country.
Vision Extends Beyond Operations to Domestic Manufacturing
The minister also said the government’s ambition goes beyond operating seaplanes.
He emphasised that India aims to manufacture seaplanes domestically under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Make in India initiative, helping create a strong ecosystem for sustainable aviation technologies.
The proposed collaboration is expected to support this long-term vision by promoting innovation, technology transfer, and skill development.
No Immediate Financial Commitment
The Ministry of Civil Aviation clarified that the MoU is exploratory and non-binding.
It does not involve:
- Any financial commitment
- Procurement obligations
- Investment commitments
- Exclusive partnership arrangements
Any future projects or commercial collaborations will require separate agreements and approvals from the competent authorities in accordance with Government of India procedures and applicable laws.
About Noemi Aerospace
Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS) is headquartered in Bergen, Norway, and is developing next-generation electric seaplane technology with support from the Norwegian government.
The company focuses on sustainable aviation solutions aimed at reducing emissions while improving regional air connectivity through electric aircraft.
About Pawan Hans Limited
Pawan Hans Limited is a Government of India Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and is the country’s largest helicopter service operator. It plays a key role in providing helicopter services for passenger transport, offshore operations, emergency services, and connectivity to remote and inaccessible regions, contributing significantly to India’s aviation infrastructure and regional connectivity.
Read also: Leadership Updates: Sunil Kumar Nagdawne Recommended as CMD of Pawan Hans Limited by PESB
