Lakshadweep’s planned seaplane service has stalled after the Union Territory administration withdrew its support just days before the proposed launch.

In an email to the Airports Authority of India on September 21, the administration said it would not be able to provide any assistance for seaplane and water aerodrome operations, citing its lack of experience in operating and managing such services. All previous communications on the matter were treated as withdrawn.

The about-turn reversed an August concurrence in which the UT’s Department of Port, Shipping and Aviation had approved the commencement of services after the monsoon, with AAI designated as the water aerodrome operator. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation had approved the water aerodromes on September 7.

Operator SkyHop Aviation had received its Air Operator Certificate in April 2026 and conducted more than 40 trial and proving flights across the islands. The company invested in an aircraft, pilots, engineers and water jetties across five islands for routes awarded under UDAN.

According to media reports, SkyHop has invested around Rs 100 crore and employed about 100 people for the venture, and has now approached the Prime Minister’s Office over the delay.