India's FlyJet Aviation has signed a letter of intent (LOI) with Mallard Aircraft for three ME-1A amphibious aircraft. The parties inked the agreement at the 2024 Farnborough Airshow.
“With the latest technology platform the ME-1A amphibious aircraft of Mallard Enterprises is an ideal addition to our diverse aircraft fleet," said FlyJet CEO Jigisha Parmar. "It will extend our reach to previously inaccessible destinations with a safe, reliable, economical, and environmentally sustainable travel experience for our customers." Bangalore-based FlyJet is a virtual business jet operator that matches clients with fixed and rotary wing aircraft on its books.
"Mallard Enterprises is excited to be part of the FlyJet’s diverse aircraft fleet and provide their customers access to new regions," said Mallard Co-Founder and CEO Dan Peabody. "The ME-1A, with its competitive economics, amphibious capability, speed, and green credentials, fits well with FlyJet's vision.”
The FlyJet LOI was Mallard's second deal at Farnborough, having also signed an LOI with Mehair (Mumbai International) for fifty ME-1As at the air show. The Maine-based manufacturer's still-under-development aircraft will be able to fly 650 kilometres fully loaded with 19 passengers, or just over 1,800 kilometres with ten passengers onboard, including typical airline reserves. Mallard co-founder and COO Mohan Chunduri recently told ch-aviation that it hopes to start deliveries of the type in late 2027 or early 2028.
