India-based seaplane operator Maritime Energy Heli Air Services (MEHAIR) is to explore the conversion of its fleet to zero emission propulsion technologies. Monte Aircraft Leasing will work to identify the most suitable zero emission propulsion technology for MEHAIR operations and will then offer financing for the conversion of its fleet once this technology is approved and certified.

MEHAIR is launching inter-island air services between the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on routes awarded by the Government of India under the UDAN programme. MEHAIR has been operating a growing fleet of Cessna 208B Grand Caravan seaplanes that it will look to retrofit in the coming years. Additionally, the operator has ordered up to 50 Jekta PHA-ZE 100 all-electric amphibious aircraft, reinforcing its commitment to the long term decarbonisation of air travel in India.

Siddharth Verma, CEO of MEHAIR, says: “Sustainability is the way forward, and carbon neutrality is the key. As a responsible partner to the Indian Government's unfolding regional connectivity scheme, which is aimed at connecting every nook and cranny of the country, it becomes imperative to align yourself on the right side of history. As India's pioneering seaplane operator, we take this responsibility very seriously and wish to be the Indian flag bearers of this emerging technology to bring synergy between connectivity and sustainability.”

Monte head of growth Rishi Majithia adds: “We are delighted to partner with MEHAIR, which is strongly aligned with our commitment to carbon neutrality in the regional aviation market. This is an exciting chapter in the growing Indian aviation sector, and we look forward to supporting MEHAIR lead the way in decarbonisation.”