Indian low-cost carrier SpiceJet has revealed plans to relaunch its seaplane operations in 2025, with a focus on connecting some of India’s most remote regions.
On November 9, 2024, SpiceJet announced it aims to enhance regional connectivity and tourism. The budget carrier has partnered with aircraft manufacturer De Havilland to support the trials and provide engineering, technical, and logistical support. The seaplane services will focus on crucial routes, aiming to provide affordable and accessible air travel to remote areas. SpiceJet has secured rights to operate seaplane services on 20 routes, with plans to launch these services once the required infrastructure is in place.
SpiceJet seaplane project is being led by Avani Singh, who is the CEO of Spice Shuttle, the carrier’s seaplane division. The decision to re-introduce seaplane service came after a successful demonstration flight on November 8, 2024, where the CEO, piloted a seaplane from the Prakasam Barrage in Vijayawada to the Srisailam Dam in Andhra Pradesh.
“SpiceJet has always dared to dream big and with the support of visionary leaders […] we are taking concrete steps to bring seaplane operation to life in India once again,” Singh told News18.
The airline’s CEO believes seaplane operations can help bridge gaps in transportation, especially in regions that have been underserved by conventional air services.
SpiceJet’s seaplane operations will build on the lessons learned from the past. The carrier first introduced scheduled seaplane services in October 2020, which were supposed to connect the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat.
However, the operations were suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving the seaplane project temporarily grounded.