NOEMI Aerospace signs seaplane deals with operators in India, Philippines

NOEMI Aerospace, a Norwegian aircraft manufacturer, has signed two separate agreements to explore electric seaplane operations in Asia. On August 10, 2026, the company entered into a memorandum of understanding with Pawan Hans, described as India's leading helicopter operator, to examine the introduction of electric amphibious aircraft for regional air transport within the country.

According to the company, the arrangement connects with India's Union Budget 2026, which includes incentives for domestic seaplane manufacturing along with a new Seaplane Viability Gap Funding scheme. The partnership is also linked to India's UDAN regional connectivity programme, which reportedly envisions around 150 new seaplane routes across the country. NOEMI's founder and chief executive, Eric Lithun, said the company was pleased to begin working with Pawan Hans and Indian authorities, while Pawan Hans chairman and managing director Sunil Kumar Nagdawne called the agreement an early step toward developing sustainable aviation in India. For now, the collaboration will concentrate on assessing operational concepts, infrastructure requirements and commercial potential in the Indian market.

Two days later, on August 12, 2026, NOEMI announced a second memorandum of understanding, this time with Philippine seaplane operator Horizon Sun Charters, which intends to purchase three NOEMI aircraft with options for two additional units. The Philippines, made up of more than 7,600 islands, was cited as a suitable market for amphibious aviation given the reliance of many coastal resorts and island communities on a combination of air, road and sea transport. Lithun pointed to the country's geography, short travel distances and tourism growth as factors supporting the venture.