Indian low-cost airline SpiceJet has collaborated with Japanese small aircraft manufacturer Setouchi Holdings to perform the second phase of seaplane trials off the coast of Girgaum Chowpatty in Mumbai.
The trials were conducted in order to boost India’s regional connectivity and include remote locations within the country’s main aviation network with reduced investments.
The first phase of the land-based trials was held in the states of Nagpur and Guwahati, reported Money control.
SpiceJet is also planning to purchase more than 100 amphibian aircraft for around $400m.
SpiceJet chairman and managing director Ajay Singh was quoted by PTI as saying: “The whole idea is to have it (operations) within a space of next 12 months. It should take three-six months to form rules.
“Our seaplane service will open a whole new market for both the airline and tourism industry, and will revolutionise the regional connectivity scheme.”
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By GlobalDataSpiceJet and Setouchi Holdings have also been working together for more than six months to investigate new opportunities for small ten and 14-seater aircraft for amphibious and land-based operations.
Other Indian states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Andamans and Lakshadweep are also undergoing evaluation for amphibious aircraft operations.
