NationalFriday, 1 May 2026·https://testbook.com/current-affairs/01-may-2026-daily-current-affairs
DGCA clears India’s first commercial seaplane service for Lakshadweep
DGCA granted an Air Operator Certificate to SkyHop Aviation on 1 May 2026 for India’s first dedicated commercial seaplane service.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On 1 May 2026, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) granted an Air Operator Certificate to SkyHop Aviation for India’s first dedicated commercial seaplane service, with phase one linking five islands in Lakshadweep.
Key specifics
- Certificate issued on 1 May 2026 by DGCA.
- Operator: SkyHop Aviation.
- Phase one connects 5 islands in Lakshadweep.
- Aircraft used: 19-seater De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter.
- Trial operations were conducted at Ganga Barrage, Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
Exam lens
Question type: transport and aviation policy, DGCA, Lakshadweep, 5 islands, 19-seater aircraft; TNPSC may ask the first commercial seaplane operator and the route region.