Ajay Singh, the promoter of SpiceJet, has announced plans to launch a new seaplane service in India under the brand name SkyHop. This will be an independent venture from SpiceJet, indicating that the operations of the seaplane service will not be directly related to the airline.
Singh has submitted an application to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to obtain a scheduled commuter operator permit. This permit will enable SkyHop to conduct seaplane operations in India.
The decision to launch SkyHop comes on the heels of the Indian government relaxing regulations on water aerodromes and seaplane pilot qualifications last year. This move by the government is expected to give a boost to seaplane operations in the country, making it easier for companies to operate such services.
The launch of SkyHop is expected to bring more convenience to passenger travel, offering an alternative mode of transportation that can service coastal areas or island destinations. With many tourists visiting India, the introduction of seaplane services in the country could also help to exploit the tourism potential of its water bodies.
It is worth noting that the India’s seaplane market is still in its infancy, but SkyHop’s entry indicates that the industry is showing signs of growth. If approved, this new service could open up new opportunities for travelers, business operators, and local communities in the country.
With the relaxing of regulatory hurdles, seaplane operations in India can now expand and become a feasible mode of transportation. The launch of SkyHop is a welcome development for the allied industries that benefit from seaplane operations, which include ship builders, tourism operators, and water sports enthusiasts among others.