Archive · 9 Sep 2026
Pawan Hans Plans Seaplane Return With Two Aircraft
Pawan Hans is a government-linked helicopter company that wants to start using seaplanes again.
It last operated seaplanes about 15 years ago in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The company plans to rent two seaplanes instead of buying them.
Its bidding process is nearly finished, and it still needs aviation permissions.
The first service could begin by December.
Andhra Pradesh may become the main place where the planes operate from.
Pawan Hans also has plans for routes in Lakshadweep and discussions with other states.
India currently has no operating seaplane service.
The company says the move could improve transport to places that are not well served by regular airports.
Pawan Hans is preparing to re-enter India’s seaplane segment after about 15 years by wet-leasing two aircraft.
The company’s tender process is in its final stage, with the technical qualification completed and the price bid opened.
The first service is expected to begin by December, with Andhra Pradesh likely to serve as the water-aerodrome hub.
Pawan Hans has received a letter of intent for routes in Lakshadweep and is discussing deployments with other state governments.
The expansion comes alongside plans for regional connectivity, fleet growth and a proposed ₹500-crore government-backed loan.
- Who
- Pawan Hans, a state-owned helicopter service provider jointly owned by the Central government and ONGC, is planning the re-entry.
- What
- The company plans to wet-lease two seaplanes and restart seaplane services.
- When
- The plan was reported on September 8, 2026; the first service is expected by December.
- Where
- Andhra Pradesh is expected to be the water-aerodrome hub, with potential routes in Lakshadweep and other regions.
- Why
- The move is intended to diversify Pawan Hans’ operations, provide transport in coastal and underserved areas, and support regional connectivity.
- Aircraft planned
- Two seaplanes through a wet-lease arrangement
- Previous seaplane operation
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands in 2009
- Expected launch
- By December, according to sources
- Expected hub
- Andhra Pradesh
- Potential routes
- Lakshadweep islands and routes under discussion with other state governments
- Proposed loan
- Approximately ₹500 crore, with a proposed 10-year tenure
- Ownership
- 51:49 joint venture between the Central government and ONGC