Shri Rammohun Naidu launches the 5.4 version of the UDAN

Newdelhi:22/8/24:Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu has launched the Guidelines for Seaplane Operations in India today in New Delhi. During his address at the event at the Indian Aviation Academy, Union Minister said that these guidelines not only integrate seaplane operations into India’s aviation landscape for transportation but also create jobs and foster economic empowerment, making seaplanes a symbol of the country’s growth, innovation, and commitment to inclusive development.

Union Minister, Shri Rammohun Naidu also launch the 5.4 version of the UDAN.  Under UDAN 5.4, fresh bids would be invited for the routes which were canceled for some reason or the other, to provide connectivity on unserved routes. The Minister also announced that the demonstration flights of the seaplane by manufacturer DeHavilland would be held shortly.

Addressing the occasion, Union Minister underlined about India’s 7517 km long coastline and extensive network of rivers and lakes which present a unique opportunity for the development of seaplane operations in the country. On careful study of the situation and drawing from the experience of helicopter operations, the Government has taken a flexible and pragmatic approach to ensure the growth of seaplane operations. The guidelines would enable the seaplane operations under RCS to make use of the operations under a Non-Scheduled Operator Permit (NSOP).  The extension of the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) under the RCS to seaplane operations would provide the initial fillip to the Operators. While seeking to promote seaplane operations, due care has been taken to ensure the safety and security of the operations.

Union Civil Aviation Secretary, Shri Vumlunmang Vualnam said at this event the Ministry of Civil Aviation has taken a proactive approach. We have decided to leverage the Non-Scheduled Operator Permit (NSOP) framework for Seaplane Operations, which has already proven successful for helicopters and small aircraft under the RCS scheme. The Seaplane NSOP Guidelines we are launching today provide a structured and safe framework for seaplane operations to continue and grow, even as we work towards the full development of water aerodrome infrastructure.

The event witnessed the participation of Director General, DGCA, Shri Vikram Dev Dutt, and senior officials from Ministry of Civil Aviation, State and Union Territory Governments, NSOP and SoP operators, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), seaplane manufacturers, lessors, and media personnel, among others.