The Centre is reviewing the proposed launch of seaplane services in Lakshadweep after the Union Territory administration withdrew its support just days before operations were expected to begin.
Sources said the sudden decision has created uncertainty among stakeholders, but they remain hopeful that the issue will be resolved soon. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has also stepped in to look into the matter.
Seaplane Launch Delayed Despite Approvals
The proposed service by SkyHop Aviation under the Centre’s UDAN scheme has been delayed despite receiving approvals from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Lakshadweep administration.
According to sources, SkyHop had already invested in aircraft, pilots, engineers and other infrastructure. The company also built water jetties at five islands using its own funds.
The operator had completed the required preparations and was expecting to begin services after the 2026 monsoon, depending on weather conditions.
Lakshadweep Withdraws Earlier Approval
The Lakshadweep administration had initially given its approval for the services in August. The approval stated that operations could begin after the monsoon, subject to weather conditions and with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) operating all the water aerodromes.
However, the administration changed its position shortly before the planned launch.
In an email sent to AAI on September 21, the administration said it did not have the experience required to operate and manage water aerodromes and seaplane services in Lakshadweep.
It also stated that the administration would not be able to provide assistance for seaplane and water aerodrome operations and that its earlier communications on the matter should be treated as withdrawn.
SkyHop Had Completed Preparations
AAI had been designated as the operator of the water aerodromes, while the DGCA approved the water aerodromes on September 7.
SkyHop received its Air Operator Certificate in April 2026 and conducted more than 40 trial and proving flights across the islands before the planned launch.
The company had also arranged aircraft, pilots and engineers and built water jetties at five islands for the UDAN routes awarded to it.
According to sources, SkyHop continued to keep its aircraft, pilots and engineers ready for another four months at its own cost after being asked to wait until the end of the monsoon. The company was told that operations would begin after the waiting period.
Operations Disrupted
Sources said SkyHop was verbally informed on September 10 that the Lakshadweep administration would not allow the seaplane service to start.
The decision disrupted plans for a mid-September inauguration after months of preparation and investment.
The operator has also reportedly suffered substantial losses because of the delay. However, no detailed or officially quantified breakdown of the losses was available.
