Union Minister Rammohan Naidu Launches Guidelines for Seaplane Operations in India, Introduces UDAN 5.4

New Delhi: Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, today unveiled the Guidelines for Seaplane Operations in India during an event at the Indian Aviation Academy. The launch of these guidelines marks a significant step in integrating seaplane operations into the country’s aviation sector, with the aim of boosting connectivity, creating jobs, and promoting economic empowerment.

During his address, Naidu highlighted the potential of seaplanes to transform India’s aviation landscape. “These guidelines not only facilitate transportation but also foster economic growth, symbolizing India’s commitment to inclusive development, innovation, and job creation,” the Minister stated.

In addition to the guidelines, the Union Minister launched UDAN 5.4, inviting fresh bids to restore connectivity on previously canceled routes. UDAN 5.4 aims to enhance regional connectivity, with a special focus on unserved routes. Shri Naidu also announced that demonstration flights of DeHavilland seaplanes would be conducted soon, further showcasing the growing seaplane industry in India.

With India boasting a 7,517 km coastline and a vast network of rivers and lakes, Shri Naidu emphasized the unique opportunity seaplane operations present. Drawing from the success of helicopter operations, the government has adopted a flexible and pragmatic approach to developing seaplane services. The guidelines allow seaplane operations under the Non-Scheduled Operator Permit (NSOP) framework, with the extension of Viability Gap Funding (VGF) under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) to support operators.

“Despite initial challenges in developing water aerodromes, the Government remains committed to expanding seaplane operations,” Shri Naidu noted. He emphasized the importance of safety and security in the newly formulated Seaplane NSOP Guidelines, which define clear responsibilities for stakeholders, ensuring efficient operations nationwide.

Naidu also called for a favorable policy environment for the seaplane industry, encouraging research into eco-friendly technologies like electric seaplanes to align with India’s commitments under the UN Framework on Climate Change. He further envisioned the development of Multimodal Transport Hubs to ensure seamless connectivity between seaplanes and other transportation modes.

Speaking at the event, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, said, “This initiative will improve connectivity, boost tourism, and foster economic growth, bringing remote areas of India closer.” He added that the guidelines would ensure the safe, secure, and efficient conduct of seaplane operations, marking a new chapter in India’s aviation history.

Union Civil Aviation Secretary, Vumlunmang Vualnam, emphasized the government’s proactive approach, leveraging the NSOP framework to build on the success of helicopter and small aircraft operations. “The Seaplane NSOP Guidelines provide a structured framework for the sustainable growth of seaplane operations, even as we work to fully develop water aerodrome infrastructure,” he stated.

The event saw participation from key aviation stakeholders, including DGCA Director General Vikram Dev Dutt, officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, state and union territory governments, operators, manufacturers, and media personnel.