New prospects for sustainable air transport and green island connectivity are emerging through the strategic partnership between Hellenic Seaplanes and the Norwegian company NOEMI Aerospace, one of Europe’s most innovative companies specializing in the design of zero-emission electric seaplanes.
This partnership marks a significant step toward the transition of regional air transport to a more sustainable model, with Greece emerging as a potential hub for the deployment of new electric aviation technologies in the Mediterranean.
As part of the partnership, a meeting was held between the President and CEO of Hellenic Seaplanes, Mr. Nicolas Charalambous, and the Founder and CEO of NOEMI Aerospace, Mr. Eric Lithun, to explore the integration of next-generation electric seaplanes into the Greek fleet.
The meeting was held in a particularly positive atmosphere, confirming the strong momentum of the Greek market for the development and implementation of innovative solutions in maritime air transport.
Agreement for 10 Electric boat planes – The New Generation of Seaplane Aviation
Under the agreement, up to 10 next-generation electric seaplanes may be acquired, with the total value of the investment estimated to reach up to €80 million.
This investment places Greece among the first countries in Europe exploring the integration of electric seaplanes into commercial aviation.
Boat planes represent a modern category of electric aircraft known as flying boat, where the fuselage itself acts as a floating vessel on the water. In contrast to conventional seaplanes with external floats, these aircraft provide:
- Improved aerodynamic performance
- Greater stability in maritime conditions
- Higher energy efficiency
- Reduced operating costs
Electric seaplanes are powered by electric motors and lithium batteries, enabling short- and medium-range flights with zero emissions.
Additionally, as part of the collaboration, the development of hybrid-electric aircraft is being considered, integrating electric propulsion with traditional fuel systems. This technology enables a significant reduction in emissions and fuel consumption, while maintaining extended flight range and operational flexibility for longer distances.
Hellenic Seaplanes is considering the integration of the new aircraft within its operational network in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, aiming to enhance connectivity between island and coastal regions.
Greece: The Ideal Environment for Electric Seaplane Development
The geographic layout of Greece, featuring hundreds of islands in close proximity, offers optimal conditions for the development of an electric seaplane network.
With the capability for water take-offs and landings as well as airport access, these aircraft are especially suited for creating a modern, agile transportation network.
At the same time, the development of a network of water airports in Greece provides the necessary infrastructure for integrating new low-emission aviation technologies.
Energy Transition in Aviation
Recent international developments, along with significant increases in fuel prices, have highlighted the need for alternative mobility solutions and new energy approaches in the aviation sector.
In this context, electric mobility in aviation is emerging as one of the most important technological advancements of the coming decades.
Electric seaplanes offer:
- Lower operating costs
- Zero emissions
- Reduced noise
- High energy efficiency
creating a new model for sustainable regional transportation.
STATEMENTS
Nicolas Charalambous, President and CEO of Hellenic Seaplanes, stated:
“Collaborating with companies that invest in innovation and green technology is a key part of Hellenic Seaplanes’ strategy.
Electric seaplanes are ushering in a new era in regional aviation, providing solutions with a lower environmental footprint and higher energy efficiency.
Greece, with its extensive network of islands and coastal destinations, can serve as an ideal environment for the development and deployment of this new generation of aircraft”.
Eric Lithun, Founder and CEO of NOEMI Aerospace, commented:
“Greece is one of the most promising markets in Europe for the development of electric seaplanes.
The country’s geography, combined with its expanding network of water airports, offers excellent opportunities for the adoption of new sustainable aviation technologies”.
Towards a New Model of Sustainable Aviation
The collaboration between the two companies opens up new prospects for the adoption of clean technologies in regional air transport and strengthens Greece’s potential to become an innovation hub for seaplanes and electric aviation in the Mediterranean region.
