Pawan Hans Signs MoU with Norway's Noemi Aerospace

Pawan Hans Limited (PHL) signed a Non-Binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Norway's Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS) to explore collaboration in electric seaplane and sustainable aviation technologies, in the presence of Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu.

What does the Pawan Hans and Norway's Noemi Aerospace MoU contain?

The MoU sets a framework for Pawan Hans and Noemi Aerospace to explore cooperation across:

1. Electric seaplane technologies
2. Skill development and capacity building
3. Technical knowledge sharing through workshops
4. Feasibility studies

The agreement supports India's push for regional connectivity, green aviation, island connectivity, and emerging aviation technologies.

Importantly, the MoU carries no financial commitment, procurement obligation, or exclusivity, with any future collaboration requiring separate definitive agreements and approvals from competent authorities.

Agreement to Explore Electric Seaplane Technologies and Sustainable Aviation Cooperation

Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the collaboration reflects the government's vision of strengthening indigenous aviation capabilities while exploring emerging technologies, adding that the goal extends beyond operating seaplanes in India to eventually manufacturing them domestically under the Make in India initiative.

Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu Announced That a Seaplane VGF Scheme Will Also Be Introduced 

1. The Minister noted that Union Budget 2026 lays out incentives to indigenise seaplane manufacturing, alongside the upcoming Seaplane Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme to support seaplane operations.
2. He added that combining global technology partnerships with India's manufacturing capability could help meet local and regional seaplane demand. 
3. He also highlighted steps taken over the past two years, including dedicated Seaplane Operations Guidelines, a simplified regulatory framework, and a nationwide demonstration flight to encourage stakeholder participation.

About Pawan Hans Limited

Pawan Hans Limited is a central public sector enterprise in India under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Formed in 1985, it operates as a Mini Ratna-I category company and serves as South Asia's largest helicopter service provider, supporting offshore oil exploration, remote connectivity, and tourism.

1. Founded: 1985
2. Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
3. Ownership: Government of India (Ministry of Civil Aviation)
4. Fleet Size: Around 40 to 46 helicopters of various models

About Noemi Aerospace

Noemi Aerospace (formerly Elfly AS), founded in Norway in 2018 and based in Bergen, is developing a fully electric amphibious seaplane named NOEMI (standing for "No Emissions"). The zero-emission aircraft is designed to take off and land on both water and runways, targeting regional coastal mobility.

1. Founded: 2018 by CEO Eric François Lithun
2. Rebrand: Changed name from Elfly Group to NOEMI Aerospace in February 2026 to reflect global market expansion
3. Locations: Headquartered in Bergen, with R&D operations at Torp Airport in Sandefjord, Norway.