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Gurugram, India: India is preparing to enter a new phase of regional aviation connectivity with the launch of its first dedicated commercial seaplane operations, following regulatory clearance granted to SkyHop Aviation by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The Gurugram-based startup has secured an Air Operator Certificate (AOC), formally authorising it to begin commercial seaplane services, making it the country’s first dedicated operator in this segment. SkyHop Aviation is expected to commence operations in the coming months of 2026, with Lakshadweep identified as the first operational region. The initial phase will focus on, connecting five islands within Lakshadweep and linking these islands to the Indian mainland, likely via Kochi The project forms part of a broader push to enhance last-mile connectivity in regions where traditional airport infrastructure is limited or unviable. Operations will begin using 19-seater amphibious aircraft, primarily the De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, a globally proven platform for short take-off and water landings. The airline has also reportedly leased multiple Twin Otter aircraft for initial deployment on island and coastal routes. The AOC approval follows a series of successful test operations conducted in April 2026, which validated the feasibility of seaplane operations in Indian conditions. Key trials include: April 6, 2026 – Ganga Barrage, Rishikesh: Successful water take-off and landing demonstration Marked India’s first major operational test of a commercial seaplane platform Tehri Lake, Uttarakhand: Additional validation of water-based operations in inland conditions These trials were critical in securing DGCA certification and proving operational readiness for commercial deployment. SkyHop Aviation is positioning itself as a regional connectivity enabler, targeting underserved and remote geographies. Its initial operational model includes, short-haul inter-island routes, mainland-to-island connectivity and future expansion to coastal, riverine and remote inland destinations The airline is also evaluating opportunities beyond Lakshadweep, including other high-potential regions where travel remains time-consuming due to geographic constraints. The seaplane initiative aligns with the Government of India’s renewed focus on alternative aviation infrastructure: Budget 2026 announced incentives for domestic seaplane manufacturing A viability gap funding scheme is proposed to support operations The plan complements the regional connectivity scheme (UDAN) SkyHop Aviation is led by Avani Singh, daughter of SpiceJet promoter Ajay Singh, bringing established aviation experience into the venture. The launch is expected to, reduce travel time between islands from hours (by sea) to under an hour by air, unlock connectivity to regions where airport construction is difficult, boost tourism in Lakshadweep and similar destinations

India Set To Launch First Commercial Seaplane Airline As SkyHop Secures DGCA Clearance

Aviation Today News Desk / April 28, 2026

Gurugram, India: India is preparing to enter a new phase of regional aviation connectivity with the launch of its first […]

BeOnd Signs LOI To Launch Bahrain Airline, Projects 1,200 Jobs And $1.5B Boost SEO DES: beOnd plans to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, serving leisure and business markets across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America SOCIAL: beOnd has signed a Letter of Intent with Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Affairs to explore launching a Bahrain-based premium airline and obtain a local AOC. The project, formalised on 16 February 2026, aims to create over 1,200 direct jobs, support 6,000 indirect roles, and contribute up to $1.5 billion to Bahrain’s GDP within five years. The airline plans to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, expand premium connectivity across key global markets, and align with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 to strengthen the kingdom’s position as a regional aviation hub. Manama, Bahrain: beOnd, a premium leisure airline, has taken a significant step toward expanding its global footprint with a plan to establish an airline base in the Kingdom of Bahrain, following the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA). The agreement, formalised on 16 February 2026, will see beOnd explore the launch of a Bahrain-based airline and pursue a Bahraini Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Once operational, the airline intends to support Bahrain’s ambition to strengthen its status as a regional aviation hub, diversify its economy, and enhance international connectivity. According to official projections from beOnd, the venture could generate more than 1,200 direct high-skilled jobs spanning pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and ground staff. In addition, the initiative is expected to support over 6,000 indirect roles in related sectors such as tourism, hospitality and logistics. Over the first five years of operations, beOnd forecasts a contribution of $1.2–$1.5 billion to Bahrain’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The airline has also outlined plans to establish structured training programmes for aviation professionals, including simulator and maintenance facilities. These initiatives aim to position Bahrain as a centre of excellence for advanced aviation skills. Under the agreement, beOnd intends to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, serving both leisure and business markets across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America. The Bahrain base will be part of a broader network alongside the airline’s core operations in the Maldives and proposed subsidiaries in other regions. Established in late 2023, beOnd operates as a luxury leisure carrier with a fleet of narrow-body aircraft configured exclusively with premium cabins. The airline has grown its network from its Maldives hub to destinations including Dubai, Riyadh, Zurich, Munich and Milan. The expansion into Bahrain is part of beOnd’s multi-jurisdictional growth strategy, which also includes ongoing efforts to secure AOCs and operating rights in other markets. In late 2025, the airline began the process to launch a subsidiary in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The planned airline aligns with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030, which prioritises economic diversification, private-sector growth and the development of specialised talent. The move underscores Bahrain’s commitment to expanding its aviation sector and increasing its global connectivity footprint.

beOnd Signs LOI To Launch Bahrain Airline, Projects 1,200 Jobs And $1.5B Boost

Aviation Today News Desk / February 17, 2026

Manama, Bahrain: beOnd, a premium leisure airline, has taken a significant step toward expanding its global footprint with a plan

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