Plans by Norwegian company Elfly Group to develop a full-scale prototype of its all-electric commercial seaplane Noemi (short for No-Emissions) have received a shot in the arm thanks to an USD8 million grant from state enterprise Enova SF backed by the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment.
The award takes the start-up's soft funding to USD10 million, matched by early investors, and will enable the company to progress the project towards key milestones at its Jarlberg, Norway facility, Chief Executive Officer Eric Lithun said in a statement.
The Noemi seaplane, backed by Norway's industrial research institute (SINTEF), is being designed for regional transportation within the country. Taking design cues from boats, its hull design allows for efficient take-offs with minimal power. Carrying nine to 13 passengers, the seaplane will be propelled by two lithium-ion electric motors. It will feature an unpressurised cabin, spacious windows, and a large access door.
After choosing Electric Power Systems (EPS) as the battery supplier in July 2023, Elfly's immediate focus is on finalising the selection of the engine provider.
The prototype, intended for non-passenger use, is scheduled for its inaugural flight in 2025. The aircraft is tailored for 200km commercial flights, travelling up to 250km/h, and is projected to be operational by 2030.
Elfly Group envisions deploying 15 Noemi aircraft under its own air operator certificate (AOC). The company will initially focus on the domestic market, connecting Norway's 1,000-plus fjords and 450,000 lakes. After that, it intends to explore opportunities in other short-haul coastal markets.
