Pawan Hans Limited (PHL), the government-owned helicopter operator, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Norway-based Noemi Aerospace (Elfly AS) to explore collaboration on next-generation sustainable aviation technologies. The non-binding agreement was executed in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha. The MoU was signed by PHL Chairman and Managing Director Sunil Kumar Nagdawne and Noemi Aerospace Chief Executive Officer Eric François Lithun. Under the agreement, the organisations will explore cooperation in electric seaplane technologies, skill development, capacity building, technical knowledge sharing, workshops and feasibility studies. The collaboration is intended to support the development of sustainable aviation solutions while strengthening India’s capabilities in emerging aviation technologies. The engagement will aim to combine global technology inputs with local manufacturing strengths to develop viable platforms for regional and island connectivity. No financial or procurement obligations were created by the exploratory memorandum. The Union Civil Aviation Minister said the partnership reflected the government’s vision of strengthening indigenous capabilities and promoting innovation in the aviation sector and indicated the aim was not only to operate seaplanes but to build them in India under the Make in India initiative. He noted Union Budget 2026 proposed incentives for indigenous manufacturing and a Viability Gap Funding scheme to support seaplane operations. The ministry highlighted recent guidelines and demonstration flights over the past two years. Noemi Aerospace is headquartered in Bergen, Norway, and is developing next-generation electric seaplane technology with support from the Government of Norway for its development programme. The Civil Aviation Ministry clarified the memorandum is exploratory in nature and does not create any financial, procurement or investment commitments or exclusive arrangements. Any future collaboration will require separate definitive agreements and approvals from competent authorities in accordance with applicable laws and Government of India procedures.