Amphibious aircraft: A growing industry that can be a game changer

India establishing a base for amphibious aircraft in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands underscores a tactical response to China’s expanding naval influence. By patrolling key maritime routes like the Strait of Malacca, it can assert its presence in the region

The amphibious aircraft market is gaining traction with its unique ability to operate on both land and water. These versatile aircraft are essential for search and rescue missions, firefighting and transportation in remote areas. As the need for flexible and efficient transportation solutions grows, the market for amphibious aircraft is set to expand proportionately.

The amphibious aircraft market is expected to experience substantial growth during the forecast period from 2024 to 2030. In fact, Fortune Business Insights' analysis predicts a high CAGR during the period.

The strategic importance of amphibious aircraft is particularly pronounced in the Indo-Pacific, where nations are vying for greater maritime control.

India establishing a base for amphibious aircraft in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands underscores a tactical response to China’s expanding naval influence. By patrolling key maritime routes like the Strait of Malacca, it can assert its presence in the region and bolster its defense capabilities.

This focus on strategic deployment represents a significant opportunity for manufacturers and suppliers within the amphibious aircraft market.

Brunswick, Maine-based amphibious aircraft manufacturer Mallard is seeing demand from the Indian market for seaplanes, announcing several sales here at the Farnborough Airshow.

Mallard Enterprises’ largest order of the week came from Mehair—for Maritime Energy Heli Air Services Pvt. Ltd.—which signed a letter of intent (LOI) for 50 of the hull-based amphibious ME-1As. The operator is working to expand its seaplane footprint and expects to generate $100 million in revenue over the next four years combined.

“Mehair is at the forefront of launching modern seaplane services in India and is moving rapidly toward a pan-India seaplane presence,” said Mallard co-founder and COO Mohan Chunduri. “We are happy to collaborate with Mehair … to support the growth of seaplanes in India.”

Mallard also announced LOIs with Indian travel company and startup airline UrTripO Aviation for five ME-1As and an LOI with Indian charter Flyjet Aviation for three ME-1As.

Innovations within the sector are also propelling market growth. New entrants like Mallard Enterprises are developing advanced amphibious aircraft such as the ME-1A, which promises enhanced operational efficiency, speed, and payload capacity. By integrating modern composite materials into the design, the ME-1A is positioned to operate at significantly reduced cost per seat mile and ton mile compared to existing models. This focus on innovation signals a competitive shift within the industry, as even the well-established manufacturers must adapt to the evolving needs and preferences of operators.

The global amphibious aircraft market is on the pathway to recovery and growth following the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. While military applications remain critical, the expansion of commercial usage and technological innovations herald a new era for amphibious aircraft. As nations across the globe recognize the strategic advantages offered by these versatile aircraft, the market is poised for a period of robust growth driven by both military and civilian demands.

This convergence of factors could result in heightened competition among manufacturers and an increase in investment in the development of advanced amphibious aircraft to ultimately reshaping the landscape of the aviation industry.

The airframer expects to begin deliveries of its composite hull regional amphibious aircraft in 2028. The aircraft is being designed to offer a range of more than 350 nm (403 mi.) with 19 passengers and an extended range of 980 nm in a 10-passenger VIP configuration.

Orders announced at the show bring Mallard's total commitments to 80 aircraft from seven customers—five in India and one each in France and Turkey.

The global amphibious aircraft market is experiencing a resurgence driven by the versatile applications of these aircrafts in diverse sectors ranging from military to civil aviation. Enhanced by continuous technological advancements, these aircraft are becoming pivotal for operations such as search and rescue, firefighting, and commercial usage, including tourism development. Technological innovations, such as improved sea foils and high-speed water scooping mechanisms, have augmented the aircrafts' capabilities, augmenting their operational efficiency and expanding their range of possible applications.

The market is semi-consolidated and occupied by major players catering to market needs due to the high economics involved in this business.

Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), ShinMaywa Industries Ltd, United Aircraft Corporation, Dornier Seawings GmbH, and Viking Air Ltd are among the prominent companies, which are expected to occupy significant market share during the forecast period.

Various initiatives and product innovations by companies have led them to strengthen their presence in the market. Multiple alliances have been witnessed in the market to produce aircraft that cater to military and civil amphibious aircraft needs for different countries.