Udupi/Padubidri: A team of 8 engineering graduates from Hejamadi here have built the lightest micro seaplane in India for the first time.
This team built the seaplane, using only local materials.
The seaplane is designed to serve in security operations, flood relief operations and in tourism.
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The team, led by Pushparaj Amin, consisted of drone pilot Abhishek Kotian, trainee pilot Vinay U, students Ashwini Rao, aeronautical engineer Yashini Rao, Reshma J, Vasuraj Amin and aeronautical engineer student Utsav U.
Speaking at a news conference in Udupi on Friday, Pushparaj said that more research and funds are required to build an advanced seaplane.
Abhishek Kotian said that the team requires equipment for research, a safety kit and other facilities. If the government can provide us with what we need more things can be achieved.
The seaplane was built in 3 years without any proper space or workshop. The entire expenses of building the seaplane, about Rs 7 lakhs, was money loaned by the team’s family, friends and neighbours.
Only some essential materials in building the seaplane were imported.
The seaplane weighs about 180 kilograms. It is 5 metres long and 5 feet high and runs on petrol.
The team is yet to patent their seaplane.
