Archive · 30 Sep 2025
India Studies Maldives' Seaplane Model for UDAN 5.5
India is planning seaplane flights to connect remote areas, using the UDAN 5.5 program.
They are studying the Maldives, which successfully operates many seaplanes daily.
Indian officials will visit the Maldives to learn how their seaplane system works, including regulations and best practices.
This information will help India launch the UDAN 5.5 program which aims to connect remote regions.
Several states have already shown interest.
Seaplanes existed in India previously but were discontinued.
India is studying seaplane operations in the Maldives for UDAN 5.5.
The Maldives operates 100-120 seaplanes, with around 600 daily flights.
UDAN 5.5 aims to connect remote areas using seaplanes and small aircraft.
Flights under UDAN 5.5 are expected to begin by the year-end.
Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh have expressed interest in the program.
- Who
- Indian civil aviation authorities
- What
- Studying Maldives seaplane operations
- When
- Flights under UDAN 5.5 expected by year-end
- Where
- Maldives, coastal & remote areas in India
- Why
- To replicate seaplane services in India
- Scheme
- UDAN 5.5
- Focus
- Connecting remote areas
- Aircraft Types
- Seaplanes, choppers, small aircraft
- Maldives Operations
- 100-120 seaplanes, ~600 daily flights
- Routes Planned
- 80 water bodies
- Interested States
- Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh