April 07, New Delhi: SkyHop Aviation, set to become India’s first commercial seaplane operator, successfully completed a test flight with a landing and take-off from the Ganga Barrage in Rishikesh on April 6, 2026.
Avani Singh, Founder & CEO of SkyHop Aviation, said the project is inspired by the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. SkyHop continues to work closely under the leadership of Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu and with the support of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the DGCA to obtain its Air Operating Certificate soon.
SkyHop is being developed with the aim of improving access to places where conventional airports are either not viable or difficult to develop. Seaplanes are expected to open new routes, reduce travel time, and bring remote regions closer to the rest of the country.
In the first phase, SkyHop plans to connect five islands in Lakshadweep with each other and with the mainland, beginning operations with a 19-seater aircraft. The company is also studying opportunities in other parts of the country where such connectivity can make a significant impact.
SkyHop looks forward to contributing to tourism growth, regional access, and national integration.
Caption: SkyHop Completes Seaplane Test Flight in Rishikesh
